Cost-Share / Match Calculator
Calculate required grant match, funder share, cash and in-kind contributions, and match ratio from total project cost or award amount.
Calculate grant cost share or match
Model a project budget from total cost and funder share, then split the required match into cash and in-kind contributions.
Cost-share and match formula
If a funder covers a percentage of total eligible project cost, the funder amount equals total cost multiplied by that percentage. Required match is the difference between total project cost and the funder amount.
Cash versus in-kind match
Some programs allow contributed goods, services, volunteer time or other non-cash resources to count toward match. Others restrict or prohibit certain forms of in-kind contribution. This calculator only allocates the match mathematically; it does not decide eligibility.
Match percentage can be stated in different ways
A “25% match” can be ambiguous if one document means 25% of total project cost while another means 25 cents for every grant dollar. Always identify the denominator before calculating.
Keep source documentation
Grant match normally needs the same level of support as other project costs. Track valuation method, source, date, contributor and supporting records for each cash or in-kind contribution according to the applicable agreement.
Document the match source before treating it as eligible
A mathematical match percentage does not prove compliance with a grant agreement. Cash, third-party in-kind contributions, volunteer time and donated facilities can have different allowability, valuation and documentation rules. Record the source, valuation method, date and restriction for each contribution, and reconcile the eligible match to the award's approved budget categories. Use the calculator for planning and gap tracking, then apply the governing award terms for final compliance.