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The government gives away millions of dollars in grant money every year to people and businesses across the nation. This money can be used to start a new business, go to school with, or simply use it for living expenses, and best of all you don’t have to pay it back. Unfortunately, most people don’t know where to start when it comes to applying for a government grant.

Lets go ahead and cover some of the basic requirements for getting approved for a grant. Are you a registered citizen living in the U.S. and are over the age of 18? If so, continue on.

It’s almost always best to check with your local and state agencies first when applying for a government grant. Typically, they will be more inclined to give out grant money since most businesses will positively affect the area around them. Take a visit to your city’s courthouse and see what types of grants they offer. If you can’t find anything, check the official government website online.

Applying for a government grant doesn’t ensure you will get the grant, remember its called applying for a reason. One way to help you through the process is to apply for as many government grants as you possibly can. There is no penalty for being turned down on a grant offer, but if you are accepted for multiple grants, you get more money.

Before you go applying for all the grants you can find, you need to decide what type of grant you need. Government grants generally fall into different categories such as educational, business, minority, research, and environmental grants. For example, if you are wanting cash to go back to school, you would look for educational grants.

Educational grants are the most common type of grant given out today. With so many people wanting to go to school or back to school, the government has stepped in and is willing to help. If you are a single mom, minority, or living in a low income area, your chances of being approved are much higher. It’s also important to note that applying for an educational grant will usually be easier than applying for a business grant.

If you are interested in educational grants, go around to the colleges around your area and ask them about what grants are available to help students pay for tuition. They will more than likely be eager to help you find a grant that suit your needs.

There are different requirements for the different types of grants available. For business grants, a proposal is often required. Your grant proposal should outline and detail everything you intend to use the money on. If you are planning on starting a bakery business, make a proposal that says how you plan on accomplishing it with the money given to you by the government.

Applying for a government grant doesn’t have to be the hassle you may expect. Just be prepared with a written proposal, apply for as many grants as you can, and have a positive attitude on the situation. Start with local and state agencies then work your way up to the national funded government programs. This will help your chances on getting the money you need in these tough times!