Q How many grant can I apply for?

A There’s no limit. You can apply for your as many grants as you are eligible for.

Q Are there other types of assistance available for the small business owner besides money grants?

A Yes. There are two types of Government assistance - financial (grants & loans) and non-financial, that is, property, facilities, training and counseling, amongst others.

Q I have a bad credit rating at the moment and a few years ago I had a business that went bust. Will this prevent me from qualifying for a Government grant or loan?

A No, it will not prevent you form qualifying for a Government grant or loan.

Q Can women apply for all types of grants or just those specifically called grant for women?

A You can apply for all types of grants.

Q I have a small business I'd like to expand and I own my apartment - will my healthy financial status prevent me form qualifying for a Government Grant?

A No. Once you are an American Citizen you can apply for all grants you are eligable for, including grant for women. Being financially wealthy, poor or somewhere in between won't disqualify you. Also keep in mind that grants exist because people like you pay taxes.

Q Will I need collateral, co-signers, or security deposits when I apply for a grant?

A No. You won't be asked for collateral, co-signers or security deposits when you apply for a Government or Foundation grant.

Q Do you have to be a non-profit organization to apply for a grant?

A No, you don't have to be a non-profit organization to apply for a grant - individuals and businesses can also apply. Some grants may be specifically for non-profit organizations and in some cases it may be necessary and beneficial to form a non-profit organization to apply for a particular grant. It's relatively easy to form a non-profit organization and it could be very worthwhile.

Q What are Private Foundations?

A A private Foundation is a non-profit organization that's created by wealthy people who want to 'put something back into the community' so they give grants to people for particular purposes. There are over 30,000 active private Foundations in the US offering grant programs. And the money is non-taxable and interest free. Foundations offer cash grants for scholarships, fellowships, internships, cultural projects, general welfare or other special needs. Each Foundation has a specific mission or purpose and will offer grants for that purpose only.

Q I'm an American Indian and want to start a home-based business are there Government grants available to me?

A Yes. There is a minority small business grant for women of minority groups such as: American Indian, Hispanics, Asians, African American and many more minorities.

Q How many Pell grants can I apply for and do I have to repay the money?

A In any award year you can apply for only one Pell grant. And no, you don't have to repay the Pell grant money.

Q How do I know if I qualify for a Pell grant?

A The U.S. Department of Education uses a standard formula to determine if your total household income makes you eligible.

Q When I submit my application for a Pell grants how long will it take to receive the money?

A From the time the Government Department receives your application and approves it, you should receive your grant within 2-4 weeks.