1. Meet the Google Grants legal requirements. Your organization must be based in the same country where the grant operates and possess 501(c)(3) status.
2. Choose sample keywords, create an ad copy sample and gather the organization's mission statement along with an explanation of how you will use the award, such as for seeking donations or promoting events. These items must accompany your Google Grants application. It's in your best interest that the submitted samples demonstrate a strong understanding of Google's numerous AdWords conditions, terms and guidelines.
3. Maintain a website with pages to which your ads can link. Your links should be keyword-relevant, meaning that advertising keywords must relate to your organization's programs and services.
4. Omit revenue-generating advertising from the organization's website. Google will not approve your grant application if your site features affiliate or AdSense links.
5. Log into the Gmail account that you associate with your organization. Create one if necessary.
6. Complete the one-time Google Grants application, found at the Google for Nonprofits site. Enter your name, job title, email address and phone number. Add your organization's information, specify your communication preferences and click 'Submit Application.'
7. Wait for a committee to evaluate your application and website's content. You may have to wait up to five months to receive the committee's decision.
8. Receive email notification of the committee's decision and your award status. Award recipients are issued instructions for creating a Google Grants AdWords account. Expect notification within five months of submitting the application.
9. Assign upcoming advertising campaigns to someone who can actively manage your organization's AdWords account if you receive the grant.