Grants are non-dilutive funding for specific projects that align with a grantor's mission (not just "starting a business").
3 Ways to Find Grants:
- Search Smarter: Use specific keyphrases like "[Your Industry] innovation grant" or "women-owned business grant [Your State]." Start with Grants.gov (US) or your state's economic development site.
- Check Private Programs: Major corporations (FedEx, Visa) and industry associations often offer grants and awards.
- Think in Projects: Grants fund specific, measurable outcomes (e.g., "create 5 local jobs," "launch a community program"). Frame your ask as a project, not just a business need.
The bottom line: It's competitive and requires a strong proposal, but winning can provide crucial funding and validation.
Question for you: Have you ever looked into grants? What was your biggest question or hurdle?
Drop a comment if there's interest, I'll share a shortlist of active programs to check out.