Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Recording Business Receives Grant!

A family-based business that creates children's music CDs has completed one of the first steps in being awarded a grant. Since they have gotten this far they have already received a $10,000 grant. They will now go on to the next phase in order to be awarded the top grant of $50,000!

The family based business has already been established so this "infusion" of money will help to make their business even bigger! The family has already produced one CD, featuring lively and creative songs for kids, personalized with a choice of more than 1,100 names mentioned several times in the lyrics.


A family member was quoted as saying "We understand that music provides an avenue to connect with your children and create long-lasting memories".

The owner, previousy worked as a business analyst and holds a degree in business from the University of Iowa. Another family member, a mother of a 13-month-old, earned her graduate degree from the University of Iowa and is married to a Navy submariner. She set aside her career as a science teacher to pursue her inspiration and manage the business.

"We all love to sing songs with our babies, and we have many memories of singing silly songs while riding in the car or doing dishes with Mom".


Their first CD should be available for sale March 1. You can also listen to samples of the original songs by visiting their website.

Others vying for the money awards are those that want to start a:

  • daycare for kids with special needs

  • Cafe-style restaurant with kid-friendly environment

  • business providing Asian-inspired dog treats

  • doggie daycare

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Here Is A START-UP Grant Being Offered By The Government!

Individuals are invited to apply for this "Start-Up" Grants program. This program is designed to encourage innovations in the digital humanities. By awarding relatively low-dollar grants during the planning stages, the goal is to identify projects that are particularly innovative and have the potential to make a positive impact on the humanities. In an effort to foster new collaborations and advance the role of cultural repositories in online teaching, learning, and research, this program is being co-sponsored by more than one agency. This grant program encourage library and museum officials as well as scholars, scientists, educational institutions, and other non-profit organizations to apply for these grants and to collaborate when appropriate. Proposals should be for the planning or initial stages of digital initiatives in any area of the humanities. To apply for this start up grant program your proposal / application may involve:

  • research that brings new approaches or documents best practices in the study of the digital humanities

  • planning and prototyping new digital tools for preserving, analyzing, and making accessible digital resources, including libraries' and museums' digital assets

  • scholarship that examines the philosophical implications and impact of the use of emerging technologies

  • innovative uses of technology for public programming and education utilizing both traditional and/or new media

  • new digital modes of publication facilitating the dissemination of humanities scholarship in advanced academic as well as informal or formal educational settings at all academic levels.


Innovation is a hallmark of this grant category. All applicants must propose an innovative approach, method, tool, or idea that has not been used before in the humanities. These grants are modeled, in part, on the "high risk/high reward" paradigm often used by funding agencies in the sciences. This grant program is requesting proposals for projects that take some risks in the pursuit of innovation and excellence. Grants awarded should result in plans, prototypes, or proofs of concept for long-term digital humanities projects prior to implementation.

Two levels of awards will be made in this program. Level I awards are small grants designed to fund brainstorming sessions, workshops, early alpha-level prototypes, and initial planning.

Level II awards are larger grants that can be used for more fully-formed projects that are ready to start the first stage of implementation or the creation of working prototypes. Applicants must state in their narrative which funding level they seek. The Endowment will be setting aside funds for each of the two levels and more awards will be made in the Level I category. Applicants should carefully choose the funding level appropriate to the needs of the proposed project.

Eligible Applicants: Individuals

The deadline to apply: April 2, 2008

Maximum Grant Award: $50,000

If you would like to receive notifications of changes for this grant opportunity you can send your request via email. The only thing you need to provide for this service is your email address. No other information is requested.

If you have questions about the program you can contact the Staff by email. Because the staff is dispersed across the agency, for a fast response please contact the program first by e-mail. Applicants wishing to speak to a staff member by telephone should provide in the e-mail a telephone number and a preferred time to call.

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Another State Grant Program For Start Up Businesses

Here is yet another state grant program providing grant money for a start-up business(es).

The govenor of one state announced a package of tax breaks and other incentives to encourage start-up businesses in that state.

The package will include additional state money for technology grants and loans and additional tax benefits for investors in start-up companies.

This funding package is intended to build on the state's economic growth and to shore up the state's manufacturing base and to promote high-tech businesses. The original funding program initiative leveraged more than $260 million in the state since 2003, as well as increasing so-called "angel" investments in start-up businesses by more than 50 percent in the past two years.

The program was put in place so that the state can move from a traditional manufacturing economy into a "knowledge-driven economy" of highly skilled, well-educated, and highly paid workers.

The package includes:

  • Adding $5 million in tax credits annually which will leverage over $400 million in private investments in the state by 2015.

  • Raising the tax credits available to so-called "angel" investors from $1 million to $4 million per start-up company.

  • Providing an additional $5 million annually to the grant and loan program to provide seed money and bridge loans for start-up companies and small businesses.

  • Raising the exclusion on state capital gains taxes up to $10 million for individuals, partners, and limited liability companies if the taxpayers reinvest all of their funds into companies that are in the state.

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Do You Need Money To Help Start Your Own Business?

Here is yet another program that is awarding money to those that want to start their own business but are lacking in the funds to do so:

The deadline to apply for this is

January 28, 2008

Maximum Award - $20,000.

There are a number of secondary money awards as well.

In its 2nd year this program has been underwritten by the Govenor of the state.

This funding program is offered to show new entrepreneurs that the state is serious about helping business, creating opportunities and proving to people that they can have any future they desire right here at home in their own home state (instead of leaving their own home state and looking elsewhere).

In addition to cash awards this program will bring people with new business ideas together with judges and other invited guests who have business development experience and several who have a capacity to make venture investments.

In order to apply, applicants must submit a written business plan. The judges give heavier weight to business opportunities that would advance the state's employment or business base. Existing businesses may apply only if the proposed opportunity is a significant departure from their previous business and if the monetary award would significantly advance the execution of the opportunity. Previous winners may not apply again for the same idea. The focus of this program is on the business plan or business model and is not limited to technology entries.

Applications must be postmarked by Jan. 28, 2008.

For more information about this program you can contact the state's office by phone or you can visit their website where you can also download their application.

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Do You Have A Great Idea To Help Make The World A Better Place? - You Just Might Get A Grant For It!

This grant program was started as a direct response to research showing that many people feel disconnected from public leaders and institutions and don't believe they have the power to make a lasting difference in their community. Research done by the grant's organization suggests that if people are actually going to get engaged and stay engaged in their communities, one thing has to happen first -- they must be given more chances to connect with one another (including those they might disagree with) and figure out how they can work together for the common good.


Who Can Apply

The grant program is looking for passionate individuals, or individuals working with small, local organizations or groups, who reside in one of the 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico, to submit an idea for one of these same locations (no international projects). Applicants must be 14 years of age or older.


What You Get

Twenty finalists will receive a $10,000 grant to help make their idea a reality. The final four will get an additional $25,000 grant -- for a total of $35,000. Everyone who applies will receive additional tools to help them share their idea with others and raise funds online.

The top 100 finalists will get $100 from the foundation to jump-start their idea.


How It Works

This new grant program is part of an exciting trend--a "citizen-centered" approach to making the world a better place that is more open and more inclusive. That's why, from developing the grant guidelines to voting on the final grant recipients, this grant program has been and will continue to involve the public in nearly every aspect of the program.

  • A group of people from diverse backgrounds and communities will review all the applications and select the top 100 semifinalists. These 100 semifinalists will then be invited to pitch their ideas as a full proposal.

  • A smaller group of reviewers will then choose the Top 20 finalists, with each finalist receiving a grant of $10,000.


This grant program recognizes that improving communities takes ongoing commitment and persistent action from the people who live in them. That's why they will provide funds to individuals, and individuals working with small organizations and groups, who join together to imagine and implement innovative ideas and solutions that lay the groundwork for long-term social change. This grant program was put in place to lift up these efforts to show that they're not happening in isolation, but are part of a growing movement that can, and will, transform our communities.

This grant program wants a range of ideas and that is why they are keeping it broad. But they do have the following guidelines for how they will choose grant recipients.

If you are applying for this grant then your application should show that you do the following:


  • Address a need or cause your community thinks is important (meaning anything from your neighborhood, city or town, a particular group, or an online network);


  • Join forces with others in your community to discuss common issues, and form solutions and take action together;


  • Encourage people from different backgrounds and viewpoints to get involved

  • Plan for the long-term by laying the groundwork for ongoing public spaces in your community

  • Reflect the values of citizen-centered change

  • Demonstrate that you've thought through your ideas.


This grant program wants to emphasize the fact that they are looking for individuals with good ideas. They are not concerned with whether or not you have written a grant proposal before they are more interested in getting great ideas submitted to them. They care more about what you have to say than how you say it. So they want you to forget the big words and fancy format, and feel free to "get real" with them.

What they are re NOT Looking for

The following will not be considered for grant awards

  • Solo acts -- This grant program is looking for people who spark ideas, but who aren't running the show on their own. This is all about people and passionate teams coming together as equal partners, sharing leadership in the process.


  • Ideas, campaigns, or efforts that are "decided on" by one person or organization, as opposed to a group decision process involving people of many types and backgrounds.


  • Ideas that represent a political view or other type of belief that excludes some groups of people.


  • Efforts that discriminate on the basis of race, creed, gender, national origin, age, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

  • Projects that are created and organized by and for professional staff.


  • Lobbying or election campaign activities

  • Projects that focus solely on training or educating on a predefined issue or agenda.


Grant funds at the $10,000 and $25,000 levels are to be used to implement the idea outlined in the application and full proposal. This is not a prize for good works already done, but fuel to help move a great idea forward. Grant funds will be paid out over the course of one year in a schedule to be determined by the grant program's foundation. Grant recipients at this level must also submit reports to the foundation during the project year. Content and timeline for the reports will be decided before grant distribution, and will be required to meet the terms of the foundation's grant Agreement.

(You can visit their website to see an example of a completed application)

The information below should help you figure out if your ideas or projects are in line with the type of "citizen-centered" approaches we're looking to fund.

Citizen-centered approaches DO:

  • Focus primarily on lasting change, rather than short-term outcomes, issues, or victories


  • Create opportunities for people to form and promote their own decisions


  • Make every effort to reach out to and include a cross section of the entire community


  • Bring people together around the issues, rather than working separately without communication or common goals


  • Recognize the need for politics and volunteer service, not one or the other


  • Emphasize doing, not just talking


Citizen-centered approaches DO NOT:

  • Structure themselves or function solely on the leadership or direction of outside experts, professionals, organizations, or those outside the community

  • Ask people to simply "plug in" and participate, rather than create and run the program themselves


  • Try to talk anyone into a particular view or position


  • Associate with a campaign, election, or political party


  • Mean to replace politics or other democratic processes

  • Focus solely on training or educating on a predefined issue or agenda

  • Exclude or discriminate


How to Apply

All applications must be sent through the foundation's online application process. No applications will be accepted through the mail, fax, or as an e-mail attachment. Applications sent by mail will not be considered and will be returned to sender. You can visit the foundation's website to search for a listing of public computer labs in your community.

Here's how it works:

  1. Apply. This is your chance to briefly describe your idea in a few paragraphs or less -- so be sure to get to the point. The foundation's online form is easy:

  2. Getting to 100. The foundation has gathered a group of people from diverse backgrounds and communities to review and score the applications, each of which will be evaluated by a minimum of two reviewers. These reviewers will choose the best ideas that match the grant program's guidelines and help identify the top 100 semifinalists, who will be invited to submit more detailed proposals for a chance to receive a $10,000 grant. The top 100 semifinalists will each get $100 from the foundation to jump-start their ideas.

  3. 20 Finalists - Once the 100 full proposals are in, each will also be read and scored by a minimum of two reviewers from a smaller panel of judges, which includes the foundation's staff. They will select the top 20 finalists, each of whom will receive grants of $10,000 to help turn their ideas into action.

  4. The Top Four - The fondation will then turn the selection of the top four over to the public. The top four will receive grants of $25,000 in addition to the initial $10,000 grant -- for a total of $35,000 in grant funds.


For more information about this grant program and to see if you are eligible to apply you can visit this foundation's website.

Thursday, January 17, 2008

"Grant" Program With A Fee - For Single Moms - I'll Let YOU Decide!

Like I have said before I am not too crazy about "grant" programs that charge a fee and I don't usually recommend them to my clients unless they specifically ask for more information about these kinds of programs.

But I will let you decide for yourself......

This "grant" program is for moms with a business idea? If you have a dream of starting your own business (and you are a mom) then you are invited to apply for for this grant.

The purpose of this grant program is to help other moms achieve their business dreams. The organization that is sponsoring this grant program has always assisted moms in business with business advice but now wants to help some moms who want to start their own business, but do not have the finances to make it happen.

Since obtaining money to start a business is far from easy this grant program will give one mom a $1,000 business grant which will require absolutely no repayment! This is a fabulous opportunity for any mom who has an amazing business idea or wants to expand her existing business. And a new grant winner will be chosen every three months!

Other sponsoring partners have been included to provide the winning mom with essential business start up products. This will allow the $1,000 business grant to stretch even further since the mom won't have to purchase equipment themselves. The exciting news continues as the mom chosen will also receive a brand new computer and printer! Also a website will be created for you (or your existing website will be updated)!


If you are chosen to receive the grant you must use it to help your existing business or start a new one. And you have to let the organization know how you spent the grant within 30 days of receiving it.

In order to be eligible for this "grant" program:

  • You must be a mom over the age of 21 living in the United States.

  • You have to subscribe to the organization's newsletter (but subscribing is free)

  • You have to pay the $25 application fee to be considered.

    The $25 non-refundable application fee will cover the administrative costs associated with the grant.


They also include in their literature:

"And if you are serious about starting or expanding your business, this application fee will not stand in your way.


Like I said before, I'll let you decide whether or not you consider this a real grant program. (Personally I do not!)

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Latest Government Grant Program For Individuals To Apply For!

Just another bit of information to help further dispel the myth that there are no government grant programs out there for individuals to apply for!

Fellowships in prose (fiction and creative nonfiction) or poetry are available to exceptionally talented, published creative writers. Fellowships enable recipients to set aside time for writing, research, travel, and general career advancement. This program operates on a two-year cycle with fellowships in prose available in FY 2008 and fellowships in poetry available in FY 2009. Individuals may apply only once each year. Competition for fellowships is extremely rigorous. Potential applicants should consider carefully whether their work will be competitive at the national level. For FY 2009/Poetry Complete application packages must be postmarked (or show other proof of mailing) no later than March 3, 2008. Do not expect notification of awards and rejections before late December 2008. The Arts Endowment’s support of a fellowship may begin any time between January 1, 2009, and January 1, 2010, and extend for up to two years. An individual may submit only one application per year.

This grant program does not and will not fund:

  • Individuals who previously have received two or more fellowships

  • Individuals who have received any Creative Writing or Translation Fellowship within the ten years prior to the application deadline.

  • News reporting

  • Scholarly writing.

    (Writers who are engaged in scholarly work should contact the agency that has a related grant program.)

  • Vanity publication or self-publication

  • Work toward academic degrees


This grant program is open for individuals to apply.

The grant award is $25,000.00

Individuals are encouraged to submit their applications electronically through the federal government’s online application system

For The Poetry Grant Program

Applications will be accepted between January 2, 2008, and March 3, 2008. Do not send applications before January 2, 2008. Complete application packages must be postmarked (or show other proof of mailing) no later than March 3, 2008. Do not expect notification of awards and rejections before late December 2008. The support of a fellowship may begin any time between January 1, 2009, and January 1, 2010, and extend for up to two years.

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Here Is Yet Another Grant Program For Those That Have A Dream Of Starting Their Own Business

The top grant award is over $35,000.00!

In addition to getting the cash award you also get additional help resources and tools!

To apply you just have to tell what kind of business that you want to start (or what kind of business that you have always dreamed of starting). You will also have to tell why and how the grant will help you in starting your own business.

In order to be eligible:

  • ELIGIBILITY:

    This is open to legal residents of the 50 United States and District of Columbia, who are 21 years of age or older as of date of entry. Participants agree that these Official Rules are governed by the laws of the state of California. Void in Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands and U.S. military bases outside the U.S., and wherever else or otherwise restricted by law.


In order to apply you have to complete their online registration form with your name, complete mailing address, email address, phone number, age, title of your entry, and confirm that by submitting an entry, you agree that Sponsor may post your entry on their website for viewing by visitors to their website. There are two ways to enter:

  • Entrants may submit a video that must not be longer than 2 minutes and must be submitted in QuickTime (.mov) OR .avi format. Only the first two minutes of the video will be judged.

  • Entrants may submit a story which will have a limit of 250 words and a photograph that must not be larger than 1MB and must be submitted in JPG format (can be Black & White or color photograph). Limit one photograph per entry. All entries must be in English. There is no limit to the number of entries per person, as long as each entry is different and meets all requirements. For privacy reasons, you may include just your first name, but not your last name, in your entry. Entries may be submitted by individual or group entrants with a representative of the group submitting the required information who will also be responsible for receiving any prize on behalf of the group. Sponsor will only give the award(s) to the group representative and will not be responsible for presenting prize to any of the other group members.


Your entry must convey the following ideas:

  • What’s your idea for starting your own company?

  • What you will resign from?

  • What you would do with the award to pursue starting a business?

  • OR if you have already started your own company, please describe your experiences getting started in your application and also answer the question, What did you resign from?


By submitting a video or story with photograph each applicant represents that the application submitted (including the music, beats and lyrics in the video or essay and photograph) is the original work of entrant and has never been published and has not previously won any contest award. Sponsor assumes no responsibility for disputes between persons claiming authorship of the Entry. Each entrant further represents that use thereof does not infringe third party rights (including, but not limited to those of any videographer or any individual featured in the video), is suitable for publication and the right to submit it is not restricted by copyright. You may not sample any music that is not in the public domain in your Entry. Entry cannot defame, disparage or invade publicity rights or privacy of any person, living or deceased, or otherwise infringe upon any person's personal or proprietary rights. Entrant represents that any individuals in the Entry who are identifiable have consented to the use of their image and performance in the video, the submission of the video and the use of the Entry by Sponsor in any way Sponsor deems appropriate, including any and all media, and that such individuals will sign all necessary documents granting Sponsor these rights if required by Sponsor.

Applications must be suitable for publication in a public forum (as determined by Sponsor in its sole discretion), may not contain nudity, profanity, or threats of physical violence, and may not reflect negatively on the Sponsor or its products. Entries not complying with all rules are subject to disqualification at Sponsor's sole discretion. No correspondence regarding Entries will be entered into with entrants. Entries submitted become the exclusive property of Sponsor and will not be returned. With respect to the Entry entered, entrant unconditionally assigns and transfers to Sponsor all rights, title, interest and claims in the Entry, including, without limitation, the copyright therein, and waives any moral rights in the Entry. Sponsor shall have right to post, use, broadcast, display, publicly perform, alter, edit, assign, or dispose of such Entries in whole or in part (including clips or still frames from Entries) however it sees fit in any and all media without limitation as to time or territory without approval of entrant. Winners will be required, as a condition of being awarded a prize, to grant the Sponsor the right to use his/her name, image, likeness and biographical materials and any other individuals appearing in the Entry, as well as the winning video and/ or essay and photograph submitted, for advertising, publicity and promotion purposes including, without limitation, online announcements without additional compensation.

Entries received that are illegible, incomplete, or are not submitted online will be disqualified. Entries that do not comply with these Official Rules will not be eligible.

Entries must comply with the following content guidelines to be eligible:

  • Content may not be sexually explicit or suggestive, unnecessarily violent or derogatory of any ethnic, racial, gender, religious, professional or age group, profane or pornographic, or contain nudity;

  • Content may not promote alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco, firearms/weapons (or the use of any of the foregoing), any activities that may appear unsafe or dangerous, or any particular political agenda or message;

  • Content may not be obscene or offensive, endorse any form of hate or hate group;

  • Content may not defame, misrepresent or contain disparaging remarks about Sponsor, or other people, products or companies;

  • Content may not contain trademarks, logos or trade dress (such as distinctive packaging or building exteriors/interiors) owned by others, or advertise or promote any brand or product of any kind, without permission, or contain any personal identification, such as license plate numbers, personal names, e-mail addresses or street addresses;

  • Content may not contain copyrighted materials owned by others (including music, photographs, sculptures, paintings and other works of art or images published on or in websites, television, movies or other media) without permission;

  • Content may not contain materials embodying the names, likenesses, photographs, or other indicia identifying any person, living or dead, without permission;

  • Content may not communicate messages or images inconsistent with the images to which Sponsor wishes to associate.

Need A Grant To Start An Adult Daycare?

Is it possible to get a grant to start an adult daycare service or business?

The answer is yes.

For example in one city, a grant was used to provide start-up money for its area adult day care program. So when more funding money was needed it made sense to look to this grant program again for monies to construct a new facility to provide day treatment for victims in the middle to advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease with a new adult daycare unit. The Adult Day Care division of the City's Department of Senior Services had come to the realization that treatment of middle to advanced Alzheimer' s victims could not take place in a standard geriatric day care setting.

Statistics had shown an alarming escalation of clients afflicted with Alzheimer's disease -- a direct correlation with the national data on this. At present, there are an estimated four million Americans suffering from Alzheimer's. In Rhode Island alone, there are approximately 25,000 Alzheimer's patients. It is estimated that by 2050, 14 million people over the age of 65 will suffer from this disease -- over 75,000 of them in Rhode Island.

The present Adult Day Care facility, which provides services to 55 physically and/or cognitively impaired participants, was not equipped to meet the unique needs of the middle to advanced stage Alzheimer's victim. Therefore, it was necessary to expand our Adult Day Care and construct a satellite unit that would provide services and programs only to participants in the middle to advanced stages of Dementia/Alzheimer's disease.

While the Mayor supported such a facility, he made it clear that the city's financial situation made it impossible for the municipal government to undertake financial support for the construction of the building from such traditional sources as general obligation bonds.

After some discussion about other options, including state supported revenue bonds, the city decided that the most feasible way to build such a facility would be to devote funds from one of its annual entitlement programs. Public facilities are eligible and the use for a limited population -- that is, persons who are handicapped by illness and are over 65 -- enhanced the eligibility. Thus, the city made $600,000 available in two of their funding programs years to create a $1,200,000 pool for the building. Costs were kept down when the state donated a site for the facility. The building was completed in late 1994 on budget and accepted its first clients four months later.

In another innovation, the city assisted in the creation of a private, non-profit company to operate the facility. Through this new facility, comprehensive services and a continuum of care is available to our elder population. This continuum of care will keep individuals with middle to advanced stages of Alzheimer's in the community longer through participation in specialized programming, thus avoiding the high cost and often unnecessary hospitalization or premature nursing home placement.

For more information you can contact the Mayor's office

Although there is not enough adequate funding streams for these programs there is some funding that does currently exist. Presently some of these funding programs cover the cost of the programs if the participant is eligible. However, if they are not covered by these programs then the cost for the individual is about $70 for a 6 hour day. Many families need more than 6 hours of respite care. Many of the 'gap' families find this exorbitant. Then there is the issue of transportation. If the program is covered transportation is usually provided - but not always. Transport is an added expense. Some grants are available but usually only for a limited number of hours.

There are numerous resources available to the community to assist people in searching out assistance. However, these agencies have limited budgets so they are unable to reach the general public through advertising. Hospital social workers and discharge planners usually offer a sheet of resources to discharged patients but too often, the family caregiver is so overwhelmed with their care-giving duties that they never follow up on applying for services. I have on numerous occasions met with families who have stated that they have no idea where to start looking for help. I would dearly like to see a series of articles in local newspapers devoted to listing - free of charge- the services of for profit and non-profit agencies so that families may be more aware. I also think that doctors and their staff need to be more pro-active in advising their patients of services available in the community. Churches and senior social centers could also be more involved in ACTIVELY making these services known.

I do feel that too many people are not aware of what is available because they do not take the time to be aware. For example, I once headed a large non profit organization that provided services to seniors. We advertised in local church bulletins on a weekly basis and yet, there were still people who were regular church goers who would remark that they had no idea we even existed!

I wish you luck on this project. You are providing a much needed service!

Monday, January 14, 2008

Are You Looking For A Grant To Help Start Your Own Business?

Here is yet another state that has a grant program for entrepreneurs!

"In one state another initiative that is gaining popularity is expanding techonology based businesses and biodiesel production. Last month, the state announced that one of their departments is providing $5 million to administer assistance programs. The funding comes from the department's budget.


The programs will help grow good, quality jobs in emerging industries. The state's program wants to do all they can to create a growth environment for high-tech start-up companies and producers and distributors of biodiesel. Providing these financial incentives will make the state more competitive and more attractive in the global marketplace.


The department has been accepting applications since December 2007 for this small business grant program, which will provide grants to eligible tech-based companies in incubator facilities.


Since entrepreneurship is the lifeblood of a state's economy, and technology is a growing sector that is becoming more important each day.

This program will lend financial support to entrepreneurs that are just starting up their operations.

A program initiative that supports both is a worthy investment for the state because there is a belief that fostering innovation will spur economic growth for the entire state.


The department will also offer grants to producers of biodiesel.

The grants will be:


  • 30 cents per gallon for the first five million gallons produced

  • 20 cents per gallon for the next five million gallons produced

  • and 10 cents per gallon for the next five million gallons produced.



Capital grants also will be available on equipment, storage and distribution.


The state will also be seeking input from residents around the state with a series of regional forums, providing the public with an opportunity to share their views on the future course of the state's economy.

Saturday, January 12, 2008

The Government Doesn't Care About Nurses?

Unfortunately when peop;e don't know (or don't have) the right information about grants they come to their own conclusions. Here is a reply that I posted to some who said that the government didn't care about nurses:

Unfortunately this is not true. As someone that does grant research I can tell you that there are many grant and scholarship programs out there for nurses and the reason is because of the shortage of and the need for nurses.

There are also programs that provide financial help for single mothers. My very first grant research client was a single mother who was looking for financial help with both starting her own business and continuing her education. Since this was a few years back I was able to find her 4 such programs that provided finacial assistance including providing financial help with her student loan. Yes there is actually an organization out there devoted to helping single mothers financially with their student loans.

Just because you can't find the information about these programs doesn't mean that they don't exist - it just means that you haven't found the information yet.

Friday, January 11, 2008

Do You Want A Grant To Start Up Your Daycare?

In one state grants totaling more than $2 million to expand and improve child care facilities have been announced. The 74 grants will enhance safety at existing child care facilities and create 404 new child care slots for families.

The grants are being awarded to 74 organizations in three categories: Start-Up and Expansion of Day Care and School-Age Child Care; Health & Safety for day care centers and school-age child care programs; and extension of operating hours at existing day care centers and school-age child care programs.

Administered by Children and Family Services, these grants will help to improve the health and safety of children in child care.

Start-Up and Expansion grants assist for-profit and not-for-profit organizations by defraying some of the costs associated with creating new regulated child care slots. While the state is proud of the high standards it sets for day care centers and school-age child care programs, it's Governor also recognizes that many organizations that would be excellent day care providers may not have the investment capital to open a program that meets state and local building standards and staffing requirements. With these grants, the state partners with organizations to increase capacity, particularly in low-income and other high-need areas.

Grants may be used to correct newly identified fire, health or safety problems. Examples include: the removal of hazards, such as lead paint; improvements to play areas and equipment; consultation, training and program development activities that substantially increase the capacity of a program to provide for the health and safety of a specific sub-population of children (such as children with a particular health need). In addition, child care providers may use these funds to conduct minor remodeling that makes the child care program more accessible to children with disabilities, or to bring the program into compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. This allows programs to continue to invest revenue into the staffing, professional development and other operational needs of providing high quality child care.

Choosing the most appropriate child care is an important decision to families.

Grant awards range in amounts $5,000 - $140,000

Could Your For-Profit Business Use A Government Grant To Help It Become Better?

With all the talk of there being no government grants for for-profit businesses here is yet another one (that will hopefully prove that it is just a myth that there are no government grant programs for a for profit business.

This grant program was put in place to help small businesses conserve energy and help reduce their expenses and energy usage.

So far 48 small businesses across one state will receive $300,000 in grants to incorporate innovative technologies that improve energy efficiency and reduce pollution.

For example one business will install a $73,000 high-efficiency lighting system that will more than pay for itself within 2 years, and save the company $310,000 over 10 years. The lighting system will cut related electricity consumption by more than 56 percent and will reduce the emission of carbon dioxide and other air pollutants by 229 tons.


Although this specific grant program does not pay for the full cost, it will provide a 50-percent match of up to $7,500 for equipment or processes that reduce energy consumption, promote pollution prevention, and increase profitability. Examples include high-efficiency heating and cooling systems, motion sensors that shut off lights when rooms are empty, and auxiliary power units that allow long-haul truckers to turn off engines during layovers and still have heat and electricity.


Since the grant program has been launched in July 2004, almost $3.5 million has been awarded through 662 grants across the state. The grants announced today will leverage more than $900,000 in private investments.


This grant program is open to small business owners whose business or facility is located within the state. An eligible applicant must be a for-profit business enterprise that is a corporation, limited liability company, partnership, sole proprietorship or other legal entity that has no more than 100 employees and is a separate legal business entity at the time the application is submitted. Applicants may be manufacturers or service providers.


For more information you can visit the state's website. You can also sign up for a weekly newsletter.

Here is a partial listing of grant recipients:

  • Restuarant received $5,098 for upgraded kitchen equipment to reduce energy costs through energy conservation.


  • Automotive Company received $4,307 for alternate fuel heating system that will burn waste oil.


  • Dry Cleaners received $7,500 for a high-efficiency boiler to conserve energy.


  • 2 Trucking Companies received $7,5000 each in grant money


  • Bridal Boutique received $4,650 for upgraded lighting and new fixtures to conserve energy.

  • Properties Management Company received $7,375 for high-efficiency HVAC equipment to reduce energy costs.


  • Upholstering and Carpeting Company received $6,450 for lighting and insulation upgrades and a waste oil heater that conserves energy through use of an alternative fuel.


  • A Dairy Queen received $7,500 for high-efficiency refrigeration equipment to reduce energy costs through energy conservation.

  • Tree Service Company received $7,500 for high-efficiency HVAC equipment to reduce energy costs through conservation.


  • Recording Company received $7,500 for printing equipment that will reduce waste streams, reduce the environmental impacts of wastes produced, and conserve energy.


  • Insurance Company received $1,675 for high-efficiency HVAC equipment to reduce energy costs through conservation.


For more information you can contact the state's Governor's office by phone.

Thursday, January 10, 2008

Another Grant Program For Individual Women With A Purpose!

This grant program provides seed money to individual women (and other organizations as well) for innovative programs or non-degree research projects that promote education and equity for women and girls. In order to be eligible for this grant program:

  • Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

  • your project must promote education and equity for women or girls

  • your project activities must take place within the United States or its territories


The deadline to apply: January 15, 2008

Maximum Award: $5,000-$10,000

Number Of Awards: 29

If you have any questions about this grant program or whether or not you meet all of the eligibility requirements, you can contact them by phone, email or you can send mail to their customer service center. You can also visit their website for more information about this grant program that is open for individual women to apply for.

Students - Are You Looking For Money To Attend College?

Well you may not have to! There is a growing trend of colleges and universities that are elimination student loan packages and replacing them with grant packages - grants meaning money that you do not have to pay back!

There is even one well known university where if your parents make under $50,000 a year, you don't have to pay anything to attend!

The list of colleges and universities that are following this trend is growing. I have a list of these colleges and universities that I give to my clients upon request.

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Grant Goes To A For-Profit Private Daycare In My Own State!

Ten grants were awarded and some of the grants went to private child care centers as well to different school districts.

This grant program targets children of working families who earn too much to qualify for other grant programs. Family incomes can be as much as 300 percent of poverty levels. Or a child might be at risk because of a learning disability.

The grants are about $3,900 for half-day classes and $7,900 for full-day for 180 days, so the preschool is free for families.

At one daycare center, the children were sitting at tables coloring Christmas tree cards to send to soldiers overseas have varying degrees of motor skills. Some can already draw letters. Others are in the large scribbling phase.

By the end of the year, many will be writing their names.

Another daycare is located in the basement of a Lutheran Church which is warm and inviting, with colorful posters and decorations that look much like a kindergarten class. The alphabet, in large and small letters, runs around the wall.

The 4-year-olds have a full five-hour schedule: morning library; circle time with the calendar and Pledge of Allegiance and a song; snack, personal hygiene and nutrition; a lesson in math, science or health; individual center play; dance to music; story, lunch, outdoor or indoor play; art, story and discussion.

Much of the fun, or course, is really learning. Children develop social skills, such as how to get along with others; how to share and to sit still and do what their teacher says.

One little girl, Niquela, proudly tells a visitor, "I'm never going to cry here again!"

On the first day of kindergarten, teachers often see children who have never held a crayon. Or who don't know their colors or letters.

That puts them at a disadvantage with other children -- some of whom have attended private preschool and can already read.

And educators know that if children fall behind their peers in kindergarten and first grade, chances are they will never catch up.

So they point to preschool as a good tool to reducing dropout rates.

"If you have successfully created learners by the end of first grade, they will have a very good chance of succeeding in school, meaning they don't drop out and they graduate says one school principal who also coordinates other programs.

The grant award given to the private daycare was $165,000! The center has room for 15 children in half-day and 15 in full-day preschool. The $165,000 grant covers administrative costs, remodeling costs, and salaries for classroom teachers and teachers' aides.

• One school district received a $134,000 grant, which is being used for 34 spots for 4-year-olds. Most are in class at Elementary School. The school district chose to use $28,000 of its grant for a van to pick up and take kids home.

• Another Children's Center (along with two partners) obtained a $438,000 grant for 74 children. There are three classes at the center.

Parental involvement is a big part of the program, as well.

For instance, this month, children are practicing the triangle, letters D, E and F, and numbers 4, 5 and 6. Caden has already pointed out to her that he has a "C" in his name.

The grant recipients have long-standing, federally funded preschool programs because both have high poverty rates.

In addition, the daycare grant recipients are part of 30 school districts in the state involved in a public-private partnership to better train day care workers in the area.

A local organization along with state and foundation money, has funded the program's initiative.

Child care workers encourage parents to help children develop strong language skills by reading stories and encouraging children to talk.

Law enforcement support

Preschool programs get support from some unusual areas, as well.

Law enforcement associations support pre-kindergarten programs because they've seen the studies that show children who participate in early childhood programs are less likely to get into trouble or drop out of school.

Last March, one local county sheriff read to preschool children in the district in support of preschool.

He belongs to a nationwide group made up of more than 3,000 police chiefs, sheriffs and prosecutors, including about 200 in Pennsylvania.

The sheriff has said, "We can make an investment financially today that is small compared to what the costs could be later. It's pay a penny now or pay a dollar later." His group says the cost savings to taxpayers in preventing one child from going into a life of crime can be over a $1 million.

"Pennsylvania is one of the last states to get on the bandwagon of early childhood education," said another. "We've been more provincial with our farm tradition and many families have wanted to keep children at home."

But preschool is the No. 1 guarantor of success in school.

Sunday, January 6, 2008

Another State Grant Program For For-Profit Daycares

Here is yet more information about another grant program in one state:

This government grant program provides grants for the start-up of new or expansion of existing child care facilities. These funds, awarded through a competitive application process, primarily focus on programs serving children age birth to three.

A new Request for Application for these competitive funds has an anticipated release date of late March 2008 for the new Request for Application.

More information about this government grant program may be accessed at the website. Once you have accessed their website, you may review the requirements for this year's grants.

The Department of Social Services issued a request for application hereafter referred to as an application, for the start up of new or the expansion of existing child care facilities for children ages birth through 24 months. Last year's application can be used as an example for the 2008 grant application. Future grant applications will be available in the early spring of 2008. You can find moe information about this grant program by going to the grant program's website.

You can also submit your name or the name of your daycare / childcare business to their website so that you can be put on their notification list - meaning that you (or your daycare) will be notified of more information about this grant program. (I have already added my own name to this mailing list!)

There is also another funding program which focuses on programs that serve children ages three and four. For more information on this project, you can contact them by phone.

For information about other potential grants, you can visit their website or call their toll free number.

The state also has a scholarship and compensation opportunity for center-based and family child care home providers.

Saturday, January 5, 2008

Does Your For-Profit Daycare Qualify For This Government Grant Program?

There are comprehensive child development programs which serve children from birth to age 5, pregnant women, and their families. They are child-focused programs that have as their overall goal increasing the school readiness of young children in low-income families.

One such program provides grants to local public and private non-profit and for-profit agencies to provide comprehensive child development services to economically disadvantaged children and families, with a special focus on helping preschoolers develop the early reading and math skills they need to be successful in school. In 1995, a program was established to serve children from birth to three years of age in recognition of the mounting evidence that the earliest years matter a great deal to children's growth and development.

There are specific grants available for infants, toddlers and childcare, ranging from infants with disabilities, special education requirements. These grants for these purposes must be use for specific purposes: quality expansion; infant and toddler quality improvement; and child care resource and referral and school-age child care activities.

Applicant Eligibility is a State educational agency, a local educational agency, an institution of higher education, any other public agency, a private non-profit organization, an outlying area, an Indian tribe or tribal organization (as defined under section 4 of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act), and a for-profit organization.

Grants to conduct programs are awarded to local public or private, non-profit or for-profit agencies.

You may wish to collaborate with your local government program regarding construction and/or renovation. This grant program is authorized to provide child care services and to construct and/or renovate child care facilities. You can find out more about this childcare grant program by contacting their toll-free number.

Some Common Questions


How can I get a grant from this program? How can I get funding to start this program?

You may be either public or private, for-profit or nonprofit organizations or public school systems. If there is a current grantee in a community, that grantee will continue to serve in that capacity until they decide they no longer want to. If a grantee gives up or loses funding, the funds will remain in the community previously served by that agency and will be awarded to another eligible organization through a competitive process.

In years when additional funds are available for expanding the daycare grant program, these funds may go to existing agencies to increase their enrollment of children. Otherwise, these grants will be awarded to new grantees through a competitive process, particularly in a geographic area that requires more service to meet the needs of the population.


You can use the grant program's contact information to know the current status of this grant program in your own area.

This government grant program for eligible daycare businesses is always looking for community partners. It might be a business, a professional service provider or another agency whose involvement would enhance service to children and families.

Thursday, January 3, 2008

Do You Need Financial Assistance To Help Take Care Of Your Pet?

When an unexpected personal disaster affects a family, there is an organization that can supply grants which can provide for financial assistance to help families provide for their pets' immediate needs.

Personal disasters may include:


  • House fire


  • Domestic violence situation

  • Unexpected death of a family member.

  • Large-scale disasters such as hurricanes or wildfires



Grants may be provided for the following needs:

  • Transportation of the animal to safety

  • Veterinary care to treat injury or illness caused by the disaster


  • Temporary boarding


Grants usually range between $100 and $400. Funding decisions are based upon several factors, including:

  1. urgency
  2. financial need
  3. available funding
  4. eligibility



Eligibility Guidelines


The applicant (person/family applying for a grant) must:


  • Live in the United States.


  • Submit an application within one week of the disaster giving rise to the need for aid.


  • Have a plan for how the animal's needs can be met. For example, provide the name of a specific boarding kennel, a veterinary estimate for the cost of treatment, and/or an estimate for the cost of food and medications.



If approved, the applicant must provide photos and updates.


The animal(s) must:

  • Be spayed/neutered (grant may include spay/neuter costs).


  • Be a companion animal who was directly injured or displaced by personal, natural or manmade disaster


    OR


    Be any animal involved in the rescue and recovery efforts during a natural or manmade disaster (e.g, search and rescue dogs).



The vendor or clinic must:


  • Be aware of the disaster affecting the client and the client's financial need.


  • Provide us with a written estimate at our request.


  • Accept a check from our organization


Unfortunately our organization cannot help if any of the following apply:


  • The animal's care needs are not a direct result of a personal or large-scale disaster.


    (For assistance with non-disaster-related emergency veterinary care, please see our other Grant Programs.)


  • The treatment, boarding or other care has already been completed and you need assistance paying the bill.



How To Apply

You must read the statement and eligibility requirements carefully before applying.


New applications will be accepted starting January 2, 2008.

You can view other assistance programs and fundraising suggestions at our website!




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This organization is happy to have issued $300 to $2,500 grants to deserving grassroots animal welfare organizations who have jumped in to assist with an animal emergency involving a group of animals.


Examples of recent grant recipients are described briefly below.


  • Transport of two tiger cubs saved from a corrupted "sanctuary" to their new home at a sanctuary.


  • Relocation of 250 feral goats from an overpopulated island.


  • Veterinary treatment for thirty-seven parrots seized in an animal cruelty case.


  • Airfare for a veterinarian who volunteered to assist with neutering 130 rescued pot bellied pigs.

  • Veterinary medical assistance for 90 dogs abandoned in the desert.


  • Veterinary medical assistance for 105 cats taken in from an animal hoarding case.



While this organization recognizes the importance and immediacy of all work with animals, please carefully review your situation to determine if it falls within their guidelines.


Purpose - The grants are intended to serve a specific, known group of animals (more than one animal) in an emergency situation , where immediate intervention is necessary. The grants enable grassroots or rescue groups to access money they need to act quickly and ensure safe and loving lifetime care for the animals involved.

Grants are offered nationwide!



The ideal project will also receive funding from other sources (e.g., grant will be combined with funding from other organizations or individuals to make the project successful). Grants range from $300 to $2,500, with an average grant of $1,000.


Organization Eligibility. - Applicants must be recognized by the IRS as 501(c)(3) organizations. The IRS determination letter must be sent with an application for funding. If your organization does not have 501(c)(3) status, please encourage a 501(c)(3) group in your area to collaborate with you on the project.


If your organization operates an animal sanctuary, you must provide proof of accreditation from the right association organization.

Organizations must have an annual budget of $500,000 or less.


Grants are given to projects that are one-time in nature. Grants will not be issued to cover routine operating costs or ongoing efforts. Funds cannot be used to purchase animals. We do not fund spay/neuter projects. (However there are other grant programs that do pay for this)


Approval Process - The organization may request an invoice for payment if the grant is to pay for medical care or a vendor other than the applicant organization. The organization will mail a check for the approved amount within a week of approval, assuming invoices have been received and reviewed. Successful applicants are required to submit clear, high-quality photographs of impacted animals and may be asked to write about their project for the organization's publication.


Grants will not be awarded for

  • ongoing programs/efforts
  • general operating costs
  • capital costs
  • salaries
  • lobbying efforts
  • scholarships
  • facility improvements



There are no deadlines for proposals; they are reviewed as they are received, but funding is limited each quarter. Every attempt is made to respond to funding requests within two weeks of receiving a completed application.


If you think your project may be eligible and you are a 501(c)(3) organization, please download the application (PDF) from our website and submit with the requested materials via the organization's fax # or via e-mail.




We need your help to find eligible applicants who need this kind of grant funding for their animals and pets. When you hear of an unsolved situation that could be eligible, please spread the word!

Wednesday, January 2, 2008

How do I become a non-profit organization?

Question: What is a 501(c)3 agency? Why are the requirements? How do you obtain this "certification"?

A private nonprofit is a state corporation that is usually incorporated through a simple form through your Secretary of State's office. When your agency becomes a state private nonprofit corporation, you can then apply for a 501(c)3 private nonprofit through the IRS. Once certified through the IRS, any donations to your charitable organization is tax deductible. Most foundations prefer to give to 501(c)3IRS certified private nonprofits. It is simply a nonprofit legal entity that most charitable organizations operate under. We recommend that universities, schools, and government agencies create a separate private nonprofit to apply for grants that their usually legal structure will not allow.


Who Can Obtain a 501(c)3?

A governmental entity such as a sheriff's department, could get 501,(c),(3) status so they could apply for foundation grants. How is that possible when they don't fall into any of the 501,(c),(3) categories, (ie. charitable, educational etc.)? I would really like access to these grants but I'm scratching my head.

Any organization or group can apply for a private nonprofit, 501(c)3 status provided their charter or mission focuses on the nonprofit's objective. For example lets say that a county government agency wants to organize a 501(c)3 so they are eligible to apply for foundation grants. Most foundations require that an organization be a certified 501(c)3 to receive a grant. The county government may assemble a group of community agencies whose purpose is to use the 501(c)3 to apply for and possibly share funds from foundations to address community problems. They might name the 501(c)3 the York County Community Partnership and its mission may be to prevent and reduce homelessness, provide affordable health care to those in poverty, create jobs for the unemployed, reduce crime, etc. I would go after very broad human issues as the mission so the private nonprofit could be used to pursue a wide variety of grants. The county government could be the fiscal agent (something that would be well received by foundations) and could receive funds from the 501(c)3, but what you will have created is a separate and legal entity. Many school districts have foundations just like this.

Another option is to apply for a 509(a)1 status which falls under the 501(c)3 umbrella. Being a 509(a)1 designates your organization as a tax-free public charity that receives most of its support form a governmental unit or from the general public. Becoming a 509(a)1 provides public recognition of your tax-exempt status, advance assurance to donors of deductibility of contributions, exemption from certain state and Federal taxes, and nonprofit mailing privileges. Organizations that typically qualify are churches, educational institutions, hospitals, and governmental units. To see if you qualify, simply fill out an IRS form. You can visit the IRS's website or call their tax-exempt help line.