How to Find Federal Business Grants for Women
Historically, women have had a more difficult time getting a foothold in the business world, so the US government offers many grant opportunities specifically for women. A grant is basically a gift, unlike a loan that must be paid back. Find a federal business grant to help you start the home-based or small business you've always wanted but couldn't afford until now.
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Instructions
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Search for a federal business grant by asking other businesswomen where they found their grant. Attend meetings of your local women's business and professional networking groups, and ask everyone you meet for information about federal grants. Visit the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) website and check if they have a local chapter in your area. The American Business Women's Association (ABWA) conducts conferences in different states that you can also attend. Check the ABWA website for conference schedules and how you can register to these events. You can also speak to businessmen as well, since they might also have received federal grants and may have leads and ideas for you.
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Go online and search for federal grants for women. The website http://www.grants.gov/index.jsp is a governmental resource that provides information on grant programs. The grants listed in this site are sure to be legitimate. Read all the information concerning the possible grants that you can apply for.
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Apply for the federal business grants that you think best fit the needs of your business. Fill in all required data fields and send in your application to all grant opportunities that you find. Create an Excel spreadsheet to keep track of your efforts, documenting all relevant information, such as website addresses and the date you applied. Cut and paste information from your web browser into Excel, to make it easier and faster to keep your list up to date.
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Note any outstanding requirements and information a particular grant application may entail, and list them in your Excel spreadsheet. Locate your diplomas, certificates and other relevant documents.
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Look for other special programs or training you need in order to be eligible for a federal grant. Meet the requirements before you apply for the grant that requires them.
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Tips & Warnings
Adjust your business plan to fit the requirements of the federal grant opportunity. You may end up with a more successful business than you originally designed.
There are special federal grants for minority women, so keep this in mind as you search for a business grant if you qualify.
Always read the grant proposals carefully and make sure you and your business plan meet all the requirements and specifications.
References
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