Print this page | Go back to previous topic
Forum nameFinancial Feast
Topic subjectGrants for Hanicap?
Topic URLhttps://www.businessownersideacafe.com/forums/dcboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=105&topic_id=150
150, Grants for Hanicap?
Posted by fishrang, Thu Feb-08-07 04:25 PM
Hello all! This is my first post to any kind of forum, so please bear with me, should I say the wrong things.

I was born blind in one eye. The DMV in the state I live in considers me to be handicap, because they issued me a handicap placard after applying for one. I am looking for grants so that I can be able to purchase inventory, office supplies and such for my jewelry business. I cannot get conventional loans, and have not tried the SBA because of stories I've heard of people being turned down. My family and what few friends I have, are in no way able to help financially.

Now here is my question:
Would being blind in one eye since birth qualify me to get a grant for the handicap from the federal govt.?

Any replies would be most helpful.
Thank you all for your time.
151, RE: Grants for Hanicap?
Posted by lisasgourmet, Fri Feb-09-07 03:40 AM
First, it is going to depend on your state's description of a handicap. Just research for any state or federal programs. You can get to the links from the grant center on this site.

Second, don't let "horror" stories about the SBA get you down. Keep in mind that the SBA does not actually loan money, but guarantees a portion that the lender may issue you.

Third, talk to your local SBDC. They are free and can provide you with a wealth of information. You absolutely MUST have a business plan before approaching anyone for any type of money -- yes, even grant money. You have to be able to show how much, why, and what you would be using the funds for.

Fourth -- don't let your handicap prevent you from pursuing this. Make it an advantage in some way!

Have a great weekend!

Lisa ;-)
159, RE: Grants for Hanicap?
Posted by fishrang, Wed Feb-14-07 04:06 PM
Thanks for the advice Lisa. I am working on a business plan now, and have also maybe found some other financing option other than grants. And no I will not let my handicap discourage me. If anything, it makes me want to try that much harder. Thanks again for the advice.
179, RE: Grants for Hanicap?
Posted by Roseb441702, Fri Feb-23-07 04:39 PM
>Hello all! This is my first post to any kind of forum, so
>please bear with me, should I say the wrong things.
>
>I was born blind in one eye. The DMV in the state I live in
>considers me to be handicap, because they issued me a handicap
>placard after applying for one. I am looking for grants so
>that I can be able to purchase inventory, office supplies and
>such for my jewelry business. I cannot get conventional loans,
>and have not tried the SBA because of stories I've heard of
>people being turned down. My family and what few friends I
>have, are in no way able to help financially.
>
>Now here is my question:
>Would being blind in one eye since birth qualify me to get a
>grant for the handicap from the federal govt.?
>
>Any replies would be most helpful.
>Thank you all for your time.

The best way for you to tell if you would qualify for any of their programs is for you to go to the government's website and see what grant programs that they currently have. Some of these programs are open to the public which means that anyone or business can apply.

Number two you have to realize that it is not just the government that has grant programs. Going from your post above you should also be looking for grant programs from organizations that have to do with jewelery-making, handicapped people, women and the grants that fall under the category of entrepreneurial grant programs. Bear in mind that you don't just have to apply for just one grant program. Unless it specifically says so you can apply for as many grant programs that you qualify for.

I also have the question as to why you want to start on such a large scale as opposed to starting to sell from your home. Having a physical storefront will involve a lot of overhead.
180, RE: Grants for Hanicap?
Posted by fishrang, Fri Feb-23-07 05:33 PM
Hi Rose,
I am not wanting to open a store front, like a brick and mortar store front. I just need more money so I can buy extra catalogs, more stock (to sell at local flea markets), have order forms printed and things like that. I already sell out of my home by showing the catalog and refering people to my website http://www.halfmoonsales.com. Agrant as low as $1000.00 would get things rolling good.

Oh, and thanks to all who have replyed.
181, RE: Grants for Hanicap?
Posted by lisasgourmet, Fri Feb-23-07 06:28 PM
Why don't you try applying for the IdeaCafe's current grant? Unfortunately, you are competing for the grant, but it's worth a shot, right?

What most people don't tell you is that ANY grant money IS a competition.

I wish you great success...

Lisa

http://www.allthingscheesecake.com

Save the Earth! It's the only planet with cheesecake!
182, RE: Grants for Hanicap?
Posted by fishrang, Fri Feb-23-07 07:47 PM
That was what brought me here to begin with. That was the first thing I did when I signed up with IdeaCafe. I applied for the grant they currently have going.