Putting together your free grant application

The process to apply for governmental funding may at first seem daunting to small business owners, but this does not have to be the case. Not only is there a wealth of grant and loan programs available, there is no shortage of resources to make the process more manageable, including free grant applications.

The first step is to take the first step

To get the process underway, it is important to first research available funding programs. While there is nothing to lose by submitting a free grant application, acceptance is more likely to occur in response to applications for programs most relevant to your industry, financial needs, proposed use or even location.

To get the process underway, it is important to first research available funding programs. While there is nothing to lose by submitting a free grant application, acceptance is more likely to occur in response to applications for programs most relevant to your industry, financial needs, proposed use or even location.

During the research process, it is important to determine the criteria of the program. It is critical to match your business’ funding needs as closely as possible with a potential grant program. Considerations for your research include:

• What constitutes eligibility?
• How much funding is available?
• What are the grant’s restrictions or limitations?
• What are the requirements for the grant’s use?
• What time constraints are there on the grant?
• What documentation must be included in a free grant application?
• Is a full presentation required after the application is submitted?
• Will the grant be awarded as a lump sum or via partial payments?
• When will a decision on who receives the grant be made?

• Carefully review the instructions on the free grant application form
• Have all relevant paperwork or information on hand
• Supply the requested information as thoroughly, but concisely as possible
• Read and then re-read your free grant application form before submitting