The US economy over the past few years has been tough on everyone and it may not seem like the best of times to start up a new company. But, when jobs are scarce, the entrepreneurial among us follow our passions and DO start up companies at a time just like this! Entrepreneurs recognize opportunities and are not afraid of some risk, in return for rewards down the road. If you are a woman, just starting up a company, or you are trying to expand your already existing company, then you may want to look into some of the many small business grants for women that are still available.
However, there is a misconception about federal government grants for business. US government agencies do not give grant money directly to businesses and individuals for startup. That being said, the government does routinely give out grant money--to states and local communities. The state and community projects, funded by the federal grant funds, can mean money to your business, in the way of contracts and sub-contracts.
You not only need to know where to apply for a grant for your new business, but you also need to learn how to apply for the grant once you find a source. There are online sites that give free information to those looking for grants for a startup business. Many of these sites take will take you through the entire process, including required research, business types, business plans, startup costs, business licensing, taxes, and funding. For any grant to be considered an application must be filled out and written requests and descriptions must be provided. You will need to put in writing your business proposal, a summary of your business, grant justification, a project description, a yearly budget, your qualifications, and any outsourcing that may be done.
Private foundations and non-profit organizations may have grants available for women-owned businesses in your state or local area. The funds may be matching funds or may be issued in some other way. If you come to a website that promises they will get you a grant, be careful. There are grants and loans for women entrepreneurs but you may or may not qualify, based on a variety of factors.
However, if you are willing to adapt your business model to the specifications of the grant, then you may be to reap the benefits. Also, keep in mind that grants are not paid back. They are not loans - they are funds given to your company, which you will use to fulfill a particular requirement of the grant. Whether that is create more jobs, or just complete a project, you must comply with the grant in order to receive the money. Whether you are just starting up or you have been in business for years and want to start growing, now is the time to go check Grants for a Small Business .
However, there is a misconception about federal government grants for business. US government agencies do not give grant money directly to businesses and individuals for startup. That being said, the government does routinely give out grant money--to states and local communities. The state and community projects, funded by the federal grant funds, can mean money to your business, in the way of contracts and sub-contracts.
You not only need to know where to apply for a grant for your new business, but you also need to learn how to apply for the grant once you find a source. There are online sites that give free information to those looking for grants for a startup business. Many of these sites take will take you through the entire process, including required research, business types, business plans, startup costs, business licensing, taxes, and funding. For any grant to be considered an application must be filled out and written requests and descriptions must be provided. You will need to put in writing your business proposal, a summary of your business, grant justification, a project description, a yearly budget, your qualifications, and any outsourcing that may be done.
Private foundations and non-profit organizations may have grants available for women-owned businesses in your state or local area. The funds may be matching funds or may be issued in some other way. If you come to a website that promises they will get you a grant, be careful. There are grants and loans for women entrepreneurs but you may or may not qualify, based on a variety of factors.
However, if you are willing to adapt your business model to the specifications of the grant, then you may be to reap the benefits. Also, keep in mind that grants are not paid back. They are not loans - they are funds given to your company, which you will use to fulfill a particular requirement of the grant. Whether that is create more jobs, or just complete a project, you must comply with the grant in order to receive the money. Whether you are just starting up or you have been in business for years and want to start growing, now is the time to go check Grants for a Small Business .
No comments:
Post a Comment