Grants for small business can be tricky, but they are definitely out there. Many small non profits start off with grants. It’s incredibly difficult in the non profit world to function without money from outside interest. There are many more grants out there for women, which can be helpful if you are both a small female run business. Although non-profits are more likely to be rewarded a grant, commercial businesses might also be eligible. For instance: a single woman or perhaps a group of women decide to start a sports business selling products ranging from the best fleece jackets, hats, gloves, to other outdoor spots apparel (swim suits, yoga clothing, hiking pants and jackets, ski wear, etc), and equipment for kayaking, sea kayaking, whitewater kayaking, sailing, scuba diving, windsurfing, kite surfing, mountain biking, snowboarding, skiing, and rock climbing such as skis, ski boards, boots, goggles, skates, bikes, helmets, etc aimed at only women. In addition, you have decided to donate part of your profits to help out local shelters for women and children. This type of business model may make you eligible for a grant. If one of the core group of owners has grant writing skills, it will be most helpful.
Falling into two categories helps broaden your options for financial help. If your business is a nonprofit and a supporter of women, girls and empowering the youth, there are a lot of options for you. This may also be a competitive category, but it is also a well cared about category which means there may possibly be more grants available.
Government grants can be helpful, but don’t forget to look for private investors, or non government funded grants. Many small companies hire on, or are started by, a person who is well versed in grant writing. This is a fairly important task especially if grants are the main source of financial support for your company.
I’ve been trying to concentrate on doing this research, but it’s hard when all I can think about it packing my belongings for my move next month. Because I’m doing so much research on the computer, I have been researching reviews for a cleaning company for my old place and a company for my new place. I’m not sure who I’m going to call to clean my 5 year old current apartment, but I’m sure I’ll find someone soon. I plan on continuing my search until what I should do becomes clear. I am certain that if I look hard enough the answer will just present itself to me. The problem is that I just don’t have enough time. There doesn’t seem to be enough time to accomplish some of the smallest tasks for me right now…