#1 Only a certified grant writers, can prepare grants. - This is probably the biggest mistruth of them all. A grant, in essence, is simply a persuasive business writing document. With preparation and a little training, any writer can create/write a grant proposal.
#2 Most Grants are for Non-Profit Organizations- This is another mistruth. Although there are far more grant funding opportunities for non-profits, there are other grants available for LLC's, Entrepreneurs, Special Projects and Niche Artist.
#3 Grant Funding will Sustain your Business- There are several five figure and even six, seven figure grant funding available. However, these are usually reserved for your larger non-profit entity's or even government institutions. The average grant award amount usually ranges between $2500 and $10,000. Therefore, you will likely need to apply for more than one grant, or funding opportunity.
#4 Grant Research is Quick and Easy- Another mistruth. You have to use creative search methods in order to find grants relating to you business, project or niche. It's not as easy as a quick google search. You have to know HOW to search and WHERE to look. This can be a time consuming process.
#5 Grant Writing is Quick and Easy- It takes time to find grant opportunities, conduct research relating to your grant application, and to write the grant. A lot of grant applications include essay type questions, and can be 30 pages or more long.
#5 A Business Plan is Required- Having a business plan is a great tool every business owner should have as it contains pertinent details about your business. Much of the content you will use within your grant application is derived from this document. However, a business plan is not necessarily required to get started.
#6 There is Not a lot of Grant Funding Available- Another misconception. There are literally thousands of grant opportunities available every year! You only need to look for them.
i#7 Only one Grant is allowed per Business: Generally speaking this is incorrect. You can apply or reapply as many times as you like for grant opportunities that are available. Be sure sure to review the full terms and conditions of the grant application you are writing.
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