There are 26 federal agencies that are able to offer government grants and loans in the United States. In addition, individual states and some city governments are able to offer financial assistance to individuals, groups or businesses. The first important step is therefore to decide which agency has aims and objectives closest to your needs. An alternative approach is to search the grant opportunities currently available. This is usually done using keywords, or browsing by category or agency. Working backwards in this way may give you a greater chance of securing funds for a particular project.

1. Procedures For Applying For Government Grants And Loans<br />There are 26 federal agencies that are able to offer government grants and loans in the United States. In addition, individual states and some city governments are able to offer financial assistance to individuals, groups or businesses. The first important step is therefore to decide which agency has aims and objectives closest to your needs.<br />An alternative approach is to search the grant opportunities currently available. This is usually done using keywords, or browsing by category or agency. Working backwards in this way may give you a greater chance of securing funds for a particular project.<br />Early on, it will be important establish whether you, or your business, is eligible for the grant and whether funds are available for your project. Broadly speaking, grants are available in these principal areas: education, government, public housing, non-profit, for-profit and for small businesses. The range of grants awarded is therefore quite diverse.<br />Some examples of government agencies include: the Agency for International Development, an independent federal organization, offering financial and humanitarian aid in over 100 countries; the Department of Energy promoting innovation through science and technology for the nation's future energy needs; and the Department of Education which works to support and add to existing educational programs by facilitating equal access and promoting excellence in education.<br />Once eligibility has been confirmed, it is necessary to do extensive research. A well-researched business plan with supporting materials will have a greater chance of success and it will enable the project to take form in mind of the applicant. The proposal should always include a mission statement, some history of the business, or non-profit organization, the practical elements and any other relevant information.<br />A grant proposal may be the key to get easy money but it needs to fall into a particular category as the organizations that assist in carrying applications forward are diverse. For example, an educational grant or loan is quite clearly different from a business grant. Be wary of those organizations offering you guaranteed success or asking for a fee upfront. Researching an organization before entrusting them with your application is recommended.<br />Having decided on the government grant-making agency, it is then necessary to register as an applicant. To avoid delays, apply early and respond truthfully to all questions. A grant applicant identification number will be issued and a particular person will be made responsible as a point of contact with the relevant agency.<br />Application forms are available on the website of the government agency you are applying to. It is vital to make sure you can print out the completed form before taking all the trouble to fill it in. Note also that is a good idea to keep a record of the full application together with any correspondence with the agency.<br />Filling out the actual application form for government grants can be daunting but reading the instructions carefully and taking the time will make it easier. It should be possible to include your supporting materials such as designs, diagrams and photos. Make sure you check your application thoroughly before submitting it. From then on, you play the waiting game until, hopefully, a positive reply is received<br />