In this article, the author, taking the view of the foundation or the grant giver, shares the basic steps on how funders assess requests for grants. Each of these steps may be waived if a key member of the selection process, such as a board member, has a personal interest in the application. The following are 10 tips from the funders' point of view that can help you keep your library afloat: (1) Shallow waters might be safer; (2) Get a navigator who knows the ropes; (3) Don't go against the tides; (4) Use management and accountability concepts; (5) Fly your flags high; (6) Devise an evaluation strategy; (7) Plot your own course; (8) Deep-six the jargon; (9) Add valuable cargo; and (10) Prepare for full speed ahead. The article also includes a list of websites for foundation information. (Contains 1 endnote.)