GuideStar
Claim this toolAccess comprehensive nonprofit data for informed giving, grantmaking, and partnerships.
Visit WebsiteFreemiumVisit Website
Tracked since2026
0 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Free plan available, paid tiers above
Biggest pro
Extensive database covering a vast number of nonprofits
Biggest con
Advanced features like GuideStar Pro require a paid subscription
TL;DR - GuideStar
- Provides comprehensive data on 1.8 million nonprofits.
- Enables donors, grantmakers, and businesses to make informed decisions.
- Offers tools for nonprofits to enhance transparency and attract funding.
Pricing: Free plan available
Best for: Growing teams
What is GuideStar?
GuideStar, powered by Candid, provides a robust platform for accessing detailed information on 1.8 million IRS-recognized tax-exempt organizations and thousands of faith-based nonprofits. It serves donors, grantmakers, and businesses by offering insights into financials, leadership, and missions, enabling more effective philanthropic decisions and strategic partnerships. Nonprofits can also claim and update their profiles to enhance transparency and attract support.
The platform centralizes authoritative data derived from validated sources like 990s and direct reporting, ensuring daily updates and accuracy. GuideStar Pro offers advanced research capabilities for efficiently identifying and vetting potential nonprofit partners. Additionally, Candid provides API solutions to integrate this premier nonprofit data directly into other systems and applications, powering various philanthropic initiatives and platforms.
Available on: Web
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extensive database covering a vast number of nonprofits
- High data quality and accuracy from validated sources
- Tools for both data consumers (donors, grantmakers) and data providers (nonprofits)
- API access for integrating nonprofit data into other platforms
- Enhances transparency and trust in the nonprofit sector
Cons
- Advanced features like GuideStar Pro require a paid subscription
- The free tier may have limitations on data depth or search capabilities
- Reliance on self-reported data from nonprofits for some profile elements
Key Features
Searchable database of 1.8 million tax-exempt organizationsAccess to financial data and leadership informationNonprofit profile claiming and updating for transparencySeal of Transparency program for nonprofitsGuideStar Pro for advanced nonprofit research and partnershipsNonprofit data API solutions for system integrationAuthoritative data derived from 990s and direct reportingDaily data verification and updates
Pricing Plans
Pricing checked Jun 30, 2026
Nonprofit Profile
Free
- Claim and update your organization’s nonprofit profile
- Earn a Seal of Transparency
GuideStar Pro
Contact us
- Efficiently find organizations that will meet your goals
- Gain more valuable partnerships
Nonprofit API solutions
Contact us
- Power your platforms with Candid’s APIs to support your organizational needs
Reviews
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GuideStar FAQ
How does GuideStar ensure the accuracy and timeliness of its nonprofit data?
GuideStar sources its data from validated sources, including IRS 990 forms and direct reporting from nonprofits. This information undergoes best-in-sector proprietary data processing and is verified and updated daily to maintain accuracy and provide the most current insights.
What specific benefits does a nonprofit gain by earning a Seal of Transparency?
Earning a Seal of Transparency allows nonprofits to provide donors with crucial information about their organization, mission, financials, and leadership. This increased transparency builds trust, enhances credibility, and can significantly improve a nonprofit's ability to attract and secure support from donors and grantmakers.
Can businesses leverage GuideStar's data for purposes other than direct philanthropy?
Yes, businesses can utilize GuideStar's data to identify valuable nonprofit partners for corporate social responsibility initiatives, employee engagement programs, or strategic alliances. GuideStar Pro offers efficient tools for researching organizations that align with specific business goals, and API solutions allow for deeper integration into business systems.
What kind of information is typically available through the nonprofit API solutions?
The nonprofit API solutions provide access to premier nonprofit data, enabling users to power their own platforms and applications. This includes comprehensive insights into an organization's financials, people/leadership, mission, and other key operational details, allowing for customized data integration and analysis.
Beyond IRS-recognized tax-exempt organizations, what other types of nonprofits are included in the database?
In addition to 1.8 million IRS-recognized tax-exempt organizations, GuideStar also includes data on thousands of faith-based nonprofits. This broad coverage ensures a more comprehensive view of the nonprofit sector for users seeking diverse organizational types.
Source: guidestar.org