There are many different kinds of government grant funding, each type being used for a different kind of organization, business, or individual need. The most common types involve education funding, non-profit organization funding, small business grants, and science related grants. In order to be eligible to receive grant funds, each person or organization must meet certain requirements set by the government.
Education grants are offered to individuals who need help paying for their schooling. This generally refers to college aid, although certain trade schools and apprenticeship programs may also qualify. Students usually are required to fill out a tuition assistance form in order to be eligible for this type of grant, and the amount of money offered is normally based on income. Smaller, localized grants may also be available in certain areas.
Another type of government grant funding involves monies that are given to non-profit organizations to help with start up costs or the organization’s overall mission. Grants may be rewarded to a specific kind of non-profit, although various types of grants are generally given out every year. To apply for this type of government grant funding, the organization must complete a grant proposal stating why it feels the money should go to it. Professional grant writers may be hired to complete the proposal.
Small business government grant funding is sometimes awarded to help with the start-up of a small business venture. Not all businesses qualify, and the money is often given to companies that are involved in an industry the government would like to see expand. As with non-profit funding, small business grants require a proposal to be written and submitted to the correct officials.
Scientific and research grants are another common type of government grant funding. This can include a wide array of sub-categories, but it is primarily used for the research and development of important fields of study. These can include things like disease research, vaccine manufacturing, and various other scientific studies. This type of grant also requires a proposal and often evidence of a study’s validity and proposed use.
Government grant funding is often limited to a specific number of organizations per year, per grant category. This is not generally true of education grants, however, and all students who meet the requirements should receive some amount of funding. Grants do not have to be repaid, but certain criteria must be met and grant proposals must be turned in by deadlines in order for an organization to be eligible.