GRANTS TO HELP YOU START A BUSINESS

When you decide to start a business, you need capital. Raising enough capital is a time consuming and difficult process because you need enough money to start the business, purchase equipment and materials, pay fees, rent and salaries. Raising capital can be done by using your own savings, asking friends and family to invest, going to venture capitalists, angels and obtaining small business loans from the bank or the government. In fact, one of the best ways to obtain capital for your business is through government grants for business and small business government loans. The government has over 26 government agencies and there are grant opportunities for all kinds of businesses.

Some programs offer start-up funds, others offer free consultation and small business loans such as the U.S. Small Business Administration. The government is always looking for entrepreneurs who are interesting in developing new technologies and services to help the United States compete globally as well as help small businesses compete locally with large businesses. Grants are free and make an excellent source for expanding or starting a new business. Local or regional government agencies generally provide business government grants. There is limiting funding so you have to be resourceful to find the grant opportunities. The best places to check are at the federal government website grants.gov and your local state agencies. Grants may depend on where your business is located and the type of business.

Small Business Grant for Minorities or Disabled

There are government minority grants for small businesses for women, African Americans, and Hispanic Americans as well as disabled persons who want to start a small business. There are federal and state business grants available for research, development, job training and technology.

Applying for Grants

Government grants have requirements that the grantee must meet in order to be eligible. Be sure to read the criteria carefully before apply. Always complete the entire application thoroughly and attach all the supporting documentation that the funder requests. If you leave something blank, your application may be rejected, and you might lose your grant opportunity. If you need assistance, you might also think about hiring a professional grant writer to help you. You may apply to as many grants as you want. There is no limit on how many you can receive. You will need a business plan. If you do not have one, there are samples online or at the local library that you can follow.

Business government grants give you an opportunity to start a business and fulfill your hopes and dreams while at the same time create jobs and stimulate the economy.