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Grants 101
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Grants is a complicated term, many people believe it takes knowing an insider to get a grant. Getting a grant is not a circus act. Anyone can get a grant if you simply know the tricks. Research is the key to getting a grant along with getting the amount of funds requested.
Starting the process is as easy as looking up foundations in your area. This is a time commitment -there is no such thing as free money; however it is still easier to put in the work for a school or program grant than raising large amounts of funds. The process is simple after you find the grant that allows for the criteria you need. If you want a grant for home repair-researching through educational grants is not helpful so pay close attention to the requirements. You will also need to pay close attention to grant deadlines. Most grants in Minnesota require the Minnesota common grant application.
The application is the best way to prepare your request; it has all the information needed in one central location. I typically print two copies, one to do the numbers and leg work on, and one to submit. After filling out the application and knowing all the information needed submit a letter of request. A simple letter stating what the grant will be used for and the amount of funding requested. Once you receive the go ahead to request the grant submit your legible application along with anymore needed information; ex proof of Incorporation or income levels. (Make sure everything is enclosed and then do it again) Send in your grant request along with a self-addressed envelope for the response letter. Many grants that do not request the application find someone submitting it to be easier to answer, significantly speeding up the process for you. Now sit back and wait for the grant money to come in.
