From the AllBusiness.com Finance & Accounting Center
There are many business concepts that never come to fruition due to lack of funding. You may have a strong business plan but may not qualify for traditional bank financing because you lack sufficient collateral, a down payment, or a business track record. Fortunately there are grant programs available through government agencies and private organizations. Here are five of the top sources of small business grants.
1. The Small Business Administration. While the SBA does not offer grants to start or expand small businesses, it can help connect you with government resources for business grants. Visit their Federal Grant Resources page for more information.
2. Grants.gov. You can find and apply for more than 900 different grants from 26 government agencies.
3. State economic development agencies. Each state has an agency that administers business grants. Agency names vary by state, but usually the Department of Commerce or Economic Development Agency is responsible for disbursing business grants. About.com has assembled a list of links to these agencies’ Web sites here.
4. Economic Development Directory. This site hosts an extensive directory of more than 2,000 economic development agencies, consultants, and associations worldwide. Links are constantly updated, providing access to economic development information for business people, real estate departments, consultants, and brokers.
5. The Foundation Center. This subscription service also offers an extensive amount of free information. It also offers a helpful online orientation to grant seeking, which will take you through the funding research process step by step. The subscription fee entitles you to access to its directory of more than to 80,000 grant makers.
Find helpful advice on business loans and grants and other common business finance issues at AllBusiness.com.
Copyright 2006 AllBusiness, Inc. |
