Are you a small business in need of some help with financing? Why not try getting a small business grant to help you in starting or expanding your small business? As you may have seen if you have ever tried to find grants for a small business, the granting process is sometimes difficult and hard to maneuver through when you are not familiar with the process. The most important step toward successfully applying for a small business grant is to search out websites and organizations that are out there to assist you.

The most well-known organization assisting startup and small businesses is the Small Business Administration (SBA), which is focused on providing assistance that will help you be successful in today’s economy. The SBA does not give out small business grants directly to small businesses or individuals, but they are willing to assist you with identifying small business grant opportunities, financing, planning, and a variety of other activities. As a small business it is important that you create a business plan, which is required by all government granting agencies. The SBA has representatives all over the USA that will meet with you free of charge to discuss your plans, help you prepare documents, and assist you to better develop your small business so that you can qualify for a small business grant.

Whether you are a startup business, existing business, or an individual you can gain access to grant opportunities through grants.gov. Accessing the system does not mean you qualify for the small business grant opportunities listed! However, it does offer you the chance to browse the federal small business grants to see what is out there for startup and existing businesses. If you haven’t completely formed your business, you may be able to develop a business plan or idea around some of the granting agencies’ priorities listed for small business grants. This will increase your chances of receiving a small business grant.

Some small business grants are available through state and local programs, foundations, and other groups. When looking for small business grants, it is important to decide if an aspect of your community will be positively affected by your business. Areas such as child care centers, energy efficiency technology, life science areas, advanced manufacturing sectors, etc. are highly promoted by state and local agencies and often qualify for a small business grant or loan.