Sure, grants represent free money that doesn't have to be repaid, but it's not that simple. You need to find them first, then qualify, apply, and hope that your business gets selected. Forbes offers some help by recommending these 3 types of grants for your small business.
3 types of grants to look for
Forbes did extensive research to find the most popular grants for small businesses, and here are 3 types they recommend:
Technology grants: Technology is huge, and initiatives like the Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) and the Small Business Technology Transfer Program (STTR) are great resources for grants. Eligible small businesses are those who engage in research and development of technological developments that have strong commercial potential. Forbes also recommends some state programs such as North Carolina's IDEA program, or the Arkansas Technology Transfer Assistance Grant Program.
Agriculture grants: Recommended agriculture grant programs include the Rural Energy for America Program for small businesses who buy, build, or install renewable or efficient energy systems in rural areas. Another federal program recommended by Forbes is the Farmers’ Market Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program open to small businesses who provide outreach and education initiatives in low-income communities.
Agriculture grants at the state level such as the Minnesota Dairy Business Planning Grant and the Minnesota Crop Research Program Grant are also recommended. Many of these types of programs are offered in different states under different names.
Health grants: Small companies who are providing services in the health field should look for grants such as The Oral Diseases and Disorders Research grant or the Maryland Child Care Quality Incentive program. Some grants are specific, but small businesses should word search until they find one that relates to their type of health services.
Read more at www.forbes.com/sites/jaredhecht/2016/05/16/3-types-of-grants-for-your-small-business-to-consider/#1cf3001b422e