Introduction to Government Grants

The common restriction for all Federal grants is that the applicant must be an American citizen

The Federal government gives out billions of dollars every year in grants. There are many types of grants available to American citizens, and there are ways to find out what grants are applicable to your needs. Not only are there grants available from the Federal government, there are countless other grants available from private companies and foundations. It is estimated that there is over $400 billion in funding available through grants in the United States.

The qualifications for these grants vary in different states, and according to the grants, restrictions apply. The common restriction for all Federal grants is that the applicant must be an American citizen. When it comes to student aid, and housing grants, they are usually awarded on a “need” basis. College students who can’t pay for their college education have the opportunity to apply for these grants. The Pell Grant is an example of a federally funded grant that pays for the schooling of who cannot afford it.

Another form of grant is a housing grant. This grant will pay for housing for those who cannot afford to pay for it themselves. The Federal government has set up the Supportive Housing Program to help get homeless families off the streets and into permanent housing. These grants provide job training for those in need, as well as help them obtain a greater sense of self determination to give them an opportunity to get off the streets and make their lives better.

If you are in dire need of money, you need to know that the Federal government has programs that are willing to help you regardless of your situation. Go to your nearest state or community services office, or go online to federal and government grants and programs. You may find the help you need. (Alison Cole)

There are many grants that the government gives to its people. Some are given to an individuals, some to businesses and most often, grants are given to specific communities, in need of something special. Grants are given to communities that express a desire or need to make changes in their community. For example, eradicating a drug problem within the community. Other grants may be used to restore old buildings that have historic value.

The community grants have several goals, but the primary goal is to make a better life for all of the community. Grants that communities receive cover many different areas. They can receive grants in the form of business loans - to aid in attracting new business to the community. There are grants for youth programs, crime prevention and construction of low cost housing. There are also education related grants to aid in the education of the community's citizens.

Since government grants are given to communities and not individuals, you will have to submit your application to the group handling the grant they have received. Grants to start your own business, help you buy a house, or education grants, can all be applied for once you know what grants your community has received. The government gives these grants to non-profit companies or groups that are trying to change the community for the better.

Simply finding out where to visit to receive these grants is the first order of business.

There are an endless supply of websites and books that will try to tell you where to locate community grants. Although there are some good resources out there, one must be extremely cognizant of the entire process. Grants are not free money, you will have to work for it. Whether it be in the form of opening your own business or helping out a shelter for the homeless, it will not be free. You will be supplying the sweat equity in return for the money. There are many scams circulating on the internet, do not be a victim. Simply be sure to submit your application to one of the groups that has received the grant. (David Pierce)