by Mark Feldt

Created on: August 26, 2010

Starting up a small business is a difficult task which requires dedication and resources. Most businesses fail within the first year and usually the reason is because the owner did not do his homework. One of the most important tasks for a small business owner is finding the capital to start your own business. You can borrow the money or you can turn to the government to obtain a small business grant.

Small business grants can be obtained, but you must look into the right place. The federal government does not award small business grants unless you are a non-profit organization or an educational institution. You must turn to your local state agency to find a small business grant.

Your local state government will have an agency that covers local businesses. Finding the right department depends on the state. One of the best tools is the official government website for your state. Finding the right department may take some searching as not every state is set up the same. It could be under an economic development department, the financial assistance department, or you may even look under the taxation and revenue department. Government websites are not very user friendly so you may have to spend some time searching the site.

Searching on the internet can also help you find websites that can aid you in your search. WWW.business.govis a great website to start your search. It is the official site of the Small Business Administration. Certain people will only qualify for specific grants and this website has a great tool for finding those grants. Typing in the required information about you and your business will narrow down the search to the grants that you can apply for. You don’t want to waste your valuable time applying for grants that you will never receive.

Small business grants are not always free. Many can be low interest loan programs that require you to pay back the money. Some require the individual to match funds or combine the funds with a loan of their own.

If you are unable to obtain a small business grant, there is a website www.sba.gov that helps you obtain low interest loans. It is full of helpful information and can help you find the resources available to help you start your business with a loan.

Do not be conned by sites that will sell you an information packet about free government grants. The information that they sell you is readily available if you do some research. If you are undertaking the monumental task of starting your own business, then take the time to do the research thoroughly. It will help you in the long run.

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