Start Writing Grant Proposals to Secure Government and Private Funding

Whether you’re applying to receive funding from local, state or federal government agencies it’s highly likely that you’ll be required to submit a grant proposal with your grant application. As a creative business leader you can also use your grant proposal writing skills to secure money from public and private firms. Of course, you can also hire an experience grant proposal writer to create winning proposals for you. 

Grants.gov lists hundreds of grants that your business may qualify to receive, especially if your business conducts research, educational or other work that benefits segments of the population. You’re also encouraged to check with your local and state government offices to see if they administer business grants you can apply for as a creative business leader. Furthermore, private foundations and private foundation directories also list grants your business may qualify to receive. 

Build a Case For Why Your Business Should Receive a Grant

Follow guidelines outlined in each grant you apply for as a creative business leader. Generally grants require you to build a case for why your business should receive the grant. Consider working with a team of professionals as you outline your case. Check to see that your grant proposal: 

• Addresses a community or national call (e.g. focus on environmentally green products)
• Clearly outlines how much funding is required to complete the project/work
• Estimated time required to finish the project/work
• Evidence or examples of similar projects/work you’ve performed that demonstrates your ability to successfully complete the job
• Examples of research work you have done regarding the project/work
• Staff members required to complete the project/work 

Support for Your Final Grant Proposal

Include letters of support with your final grant proposal (unless the grant application specifically states not to submit letters of support; always follow instructions outlined in individual grants you’re applying for as a creative business leader). Also include project and organizational budgets, organizational structure, including names of key personnel and financial audits with the final grant proposal. Read over the entire grant proposal before you send it in. Also be sure to mail the proposal to the write department; some organizations allow you to submit grant proposals electronically. 

Unlike small business loans, including interest free Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, you generally do not have repay grants. However, you generally are required to keep detailed records that outlines how the grant money is spent (e.g. pay employee salaries, research). Furthermore, in some instances you might be able to secure revolving annual grant funds from one or more reputable organizations. 

Get into Spiral online at:  https://www.ebookit.com/books/0000000841/Spiral.html

Check out Long Walk Up online at:  https://www.ebookit.com/books/0000000531/Long-Walk-Up.html 

Sources:

http://www.sba.gov/category/navigation-structure/starting-managing-business/starting-business/loans-grants-funding (Small Business Administration: Loans, Grants and Funding)

http://grants.nih.gov/grants/grant_tips.htm (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Grant Writing Tips)

http://www.grants.gov (Grants.gov)