US State Government Grants

Funding your business with grants and without the stress of repayment
By Niki Hampton, Freelance Journalist Self Employed US state government grants are offered in every industry to all types of individuals and businesses in the interest of helping fund start-up and operating costs. Grants are a gift and therefore do not have to be paid back. While it does take some work to get a government grant, the rewards can by far outweigh the trouble.

Finding and applying for free state grants can be time-consuming and overwhelming. First, you need to find the state government grants for which you qualify, which will keep you from wasting precious time. Next, gather the applications and requirements before putting it all together.

1. Find the grants for which you and your business qualify.

2. Gather the appropriate application instructions.

3. Put together an amazing grant application kit and proposal.

Find the free government grants for you

Make a list of the different categories into which you and your business fit including your gender, your race, information about your business (if you are a small business owner), area in which you live, and the purpose of the money you seek (for start-up, equipment, office space or other expenses). While there are plenty of general funds grants for which to apply, the more specific you can be, the better the chance of getting the grants for which there is less competition for the money.
Try:  You will need to find and purchase a government grant guide. You can also visit your library, but considering the amount of photocopying you would need to do, it's better to invest in a guide. Free Daily Dollars offers a free CD (you pay $1.99 shipping) of government grants to never repay. For instant access of free government grants, check out Uncle Sam's Money.

Gather applications for government grants

The application processes for free money government grants can be lengthy, but are necessary to have a chance at free government grant money. Most government grants have a web site with information and offer their applications online to print as PDF files. If you can't download the pdf, download and install Adobe Acrobat 9.0 first. If you are concerned about a grant being a scam, check out Scammer Alert!
Try:  Grants.gov is a free government grant web site that allows you to search among their 26 federal grantmaking agencies to find the right government grant for your needs. You can register and apply for free government grants online. USA.gov offers an alphabetical listing of state government grants that are available according to area of need, such as adoption assistance, they also have forms on the site you can view, print or download.

Put together your U.S. grant application kit

You will need the application forms offered by the individual free state grants, as well as a copy of your business plan and other possible forms or records. For the best application kit possible, invest in the help of a government grants consultant.
Try:  Fundsnet Services Online offers services to help you write your grant proposals and getting the funding you need. They also have an alphabetical listing of foundations who accept grants on their site. SP Consultants is one example of a business specializing in helping grant writers or grant seekers. They offer state government grant information, provide a free list of government grants and help you apply for free government grants.

• Always make copies of all documents you are sending off. This is for your records as well as serving as backup should your packet get lost in the mail.