Top Tips for Getting a Small Business Grant

Funding for your small business is out there, you just have to know how to get it, and to be honest that can be more tricky than the funding providers let on. However, even though it me be time consuming to get funding for your business it is by no means impossible, or out of your reach.

When it comes to getting your application for business funding accepted you need to know most importantly what you want the funding for. You will not be able to secure funding for your business if you don't know what it is you need the money for. So, firstly you need to get together what it is you want your funding for. Do you want the money for marketing your business, building a better website, or relocation to larger premises? It is key that you establish early on what you need funding for as this is what your whole plan and proposal will be based around.

Now you know what you want the money for, how much do you need and how long will this grant last you? Having a figure and timescale written down on paper will keep you on track with what you want to achieve, and it will also show the grant providers that you know what you are talking about, and what you want out of the grant.

Now you know, and the grant provider knows how much funding you require and what it will be used for. The next step is to collate all the information, and put it together into a proposal. Even though most grants are acquired through application form, I always feel it wise to have everything backed up on paper copy, simply because if anyone needs any further information , facts or figures, you have it all together, ready to present.

Ok, so, now the basics are covered, here are some TOP TIPS that will help you get that grant.

• 1. Use up to date information, data and market research. Nobody likes reading a proposal for a grant with information that is out of date and irrelevant.
• 2. Don't waffle. Be to the point about what you need the grant for and back up your request.
• 3. Use relevant language within your application and proposal. Don't use unnecessary jargon and technical terms if they are not needed.
• 4. If you have an existing business and are seeking funding then talk about your businesses history. What have you achieved, how many customers have you had, and what are the finances like.
• 5. If you are a new business and are seeking funding then talk about where you see your business in both the short and long term. What do you want to achieve and by when?

Finally, be honest in your grant application/proposal. All claims and information will be checked out, and if you alter figures or information you risk not being able to access any further funding.