Grants the Seraching and Writing

Updated on August 27, 2013
M.L. asks from Los Angeles, CA
5 answers

I am looking to apply for a grant for my new biz but don't really even know how to get started. Do I look for grants for women or for the type of business?? Any of you wonderful, knowledgble moms know how to go about doing this?? I don't just want to google grants cuz there must be 1000's want to narrow it down. Once I do that any suggestions on how to write a grant and ask for help???

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C.O.

answers from Washington DC on

Cini:

You have asked "how to write a grant" - I am going to blunt. You REALLY need to learn to spell correctly (i.e. searching) and NOT use slang (i.e. cuz).

When looking for grants and doing research - it's REALLY important to have your spelling correct. You can miss out on a LOT by not spelling correctly and NOT phonetically.

Do you have a business plan?
Do you have a sales history?

There a many grants out there. You will have to write your business plan, show your sales history, or at least how your "idea" for a business. You MUST be professional about it - no "cuz" or misspelled words. I cannot stress enough how things like this will get your request thrown in the trash.

There is a company called SCORE. - here's the link
http://www.score.org/resources/tab-a

They offer free resources in starting your business, finding a mentor, and growth strategies. They might even be able to direct you towards a grant.

If you only have an IDEA for a business - and have not yet tested your product or idea - then you might have a tough time getting started. If it's a unique idea - you need to get it mapped out and patented so that it is known as YOUR idea.

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E.M.

answers from Phoenix on

Look in your area for a women's business association, small business association, or even chamber of commerce. They will likely have resources. Your best bet is going to the org that best matches you- women small business owners, I assume- so you will get the smallest pool of resources with less competition and higher odds of success.
Best of luck!

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C.S.

answers from Las Vegas on

Check with your licensing bureau. You can seek grants for woman, minorities, type business. I wouldn't limit it to just one.

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S.B.

answers from Dallas on

You might contact SCORE (www.score.org) . I am sure there is a branch in the LA area. Someone from SCORE might be able to help you find grants and write grants for your business. Here is some info from their website which might be helpful: "SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. We have been doing this for nearly fifty years.
Because our work is supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and thanks to our network of 12,000+ volunteers, we are able to deliver our services at no charge or at very low cost.
We can provide:
Volunteer MENTORS who share their expertise across 62 industries
Free, confidential business COUNSELING in person or via email
Free business TOOLS, templates and tips here online
Inexpensive or free business WORKSHOPS (locally) and webinars (online 24/7)
Good Luck!

Our 340+ chapters hold events and workshops locally across the U.S. and its territories, and match up entrepreneurs with local, volunteer mentors.

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T.F.

answers from Dallas on

No one is just going to give you a grant without you presenting a detailed, flawless, presentation of your business plan, your forecasting for sales, and your financial history just to name a couple of things.

I would suggest that you speak with legal and tax counsel regarding your plan to see if it is something you can pursue.

If your business idea is very common and not a proven to bring in revenue then you will not qualify. You have to step up and present a spot on plan with facts to back you up before anyone will consider granting funds.

Good luck

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