Non-profits are indeed the organizations most likely to get grants. But setting one up, and maintaining it, is no cakewalk. There are humungous tax reporting issues to keep the non-profit status. You will likely the need the assistance of an attorney if you go that route. So, if you do opt for a non-profit, make it worthwhile. Create a school that serves dozens or hundreds of underprivileged workers. Create a business environment that will train and assist handicapped workers. A small secretarial/legal assistant service for a few workers is unlikely to generate the energy needed to attract the funding, and professional assistance, that you will need. You might look to SBA's microloans instead. Start small. Prove yourself. Then go for expansion funding. Once you've got a track record, loans become sooooo much easier! MaryAnnBusiness Plan MasterBusiness Plans for Financing Your Business

Non-profits are indeed the organizations most likely to get grants. But setting one up, and maintaining it, is no cakewalk. There are humungous tax reporting issues to keep the non-profit status. You will likely the need the assistance of an attorney if you go that route. So, if you do opt for a non-profit, make it worthwhile. Create a school that serves dozens or hundreds of underprivileged workers. Create a business environment that will train and assist handicapped workers. A small secretarial/legal assistant service for a few workers is unlikely to generate the energy needed to attract the funding, and professional assistance, that you will need. You might look to SBA's microloans instead. Start small. Prove yourself. Then go for expansion funding. Once you've got a track record, loans become sooooo much easier! MaryAnnBusiness Plan MasterBusiness Plans for Financing Your Business

Here is a good resource from USA.gov on grant opportunities for non-profits.

There probably are not many government grants for your business - even as a non-profit. But, there are foundations that may offer grants. Your best bet is to search for foundations in your industry. If your business helps these foundations complete their mission - you could have a chance. Additionally, if a foundation's mission is close to what you want to do - change your program to meet the requirements of the foundation. Just remember that these foundations will require you to report to them on your progress and where there money went - so be sure to only use their funds for the program you get the grant for. Good Luck

Welcome to the community! Unfortunately, the availability of grants to small businesses is extremely limited. However, as a women you do have a few more opportunities offered to you. Grants are easier to obtain for nonprofits. Try using BG's Loans and Grants Search Tool to see if there are specific financing opportunities that will meet your needs. Also, check out the local Small Business Development or SCORE Agencies available through your state's Training and Assistance page. They will be able to give you information about less publicized local resources that could help your business. Good luck with your business and please continue to use the community as a resource for gaining and sharing experiences.

Here is a good resource from USA.gov on grant opportunities for non-profits.

There probably are not many government grants for your business - even as a non-profit. But, there are foundations that may offer grants. Your best bet is to search for foundations in your industry. If your business helps these foundations complete their mission - you could have a chance. Additionally, if a foundation's mission is close to what you want to do - change your program to meet the requirements of the foundation. Just remember that these foundations will require you to report to them on your progress and where there money went - so be sure to only use their funds for the program you get the grant for. Good Luck

Welcome to the community! Unfortunately, the availability of grants to small businesses is extremely limited. However, as a women you do have a few more opportunities offered to you. Grants are easier to obtain for nonprofits. Try using BG's Loans and Grants Search Tool to see if there are specific financing opportunities that will meet your needs. Also, check out the local Small Business Development or SCORE Agencies available through your state's Training and Assistance page. They will be able to give you information about less publicized local resources that could help your business. Good luck with your business and please continue to use the community as a resource for gaining and sharing experiences.