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The Mother Lode of Government Grants (U.S.)
The biggest source of government assistance can be found at the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA). BE WARNED - this an extremely popular site and often so busy you can't get in. (So don't be surprised when you click on the links below and nothing seems to happen; just keep trying -- eventually you'll find an opening.) When you do finally get in it can, in fact, take hours to sort through all that government spaghetti. But if you find a few real dollar meatballs it could be worth it. Pay particular attention to the "Applicant Eligibility." You may think you're perfectly capable of performing what the grant requires; but if you don't meet the eligibility criteria to the letter, you'll probably be turned down. So be certain you meet the listed education, experience and other requirements before you waste time applying for something you'd never get. Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA)
Ok, we warned you -- you may be in for a long wait to access any CFDA link, so have snacks at hand!
Specific Government Grant Possibilities at the CFDA
Grants for Business & Commerce
Here's the jumping off page for grant info for business & commerce. There's a subcategory for Small Business, Minority Business Enterprises, Economic Development & more! Check it out.
Grants from the Minority Business Development Agency
If you want to reach out to a minority population in your metropolitan area, and help them with certain business-to-business counseling, then the Minority Business Development Centers (MBDCs) might have a grant for you! You need to be tech-savvy and provide certain services, but there's money waiting for you if you fit the bill. Check it out.
If you're an insured depository institution, the U.S. Treasury has an award program for an increased effort on your part to develop your communities with certain financial services. You could get dollars for giving dollars to certain populations and communities! See how.
Grants for Renewable Energy Systems
If you're a rural small business and want help buying a renewable energy system, the USDA has a loan/grant program to pay up to 50% of the cost. See how.
Grants for Inventors!
If you've got an energy-saving invention idea, then the Department of Energy has a grant and assistance program that might be the startup spark you're looking for. Since 1977, the Invention & Innovation Program has had more than 500 inventions receive grant awards, and nearly 25% of these have made it to market. Check it out.
Grants for Rural Businesses
Rural business enterprise grant (RBEG) funds can be used for certain employee training, land acquisition or construction, and a revolving loan fund. So if you live in certain rural areas, find out if these monies could boost your biz. Go & See.
For more grants, see Small Business Association SBA grant help, corporate grant help, and Idea Cafe's Grants du Jour.
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