If there’s one thing true about business startup grants, it’s that applying for them is very challenging. Although there are many agencies and private companies that can potentially provide you with financial assistance, you will find that for every available grant there is, dozens of hopeful would-be entrepreneurs are just waiting to be the next recipient.

When looking for business startup grants, be ready to compete. In fact, if you need help writing a grant proposal for your business, you might even want to consider asking for assistance from someone more knowledgeable about the application process or a professional grant writer.

You should also know the eligibility requirements associated with certain grants. Some grants, for example, restrict the applicant’s age, geographical location, sex and race. The purpose for which the funding will be used will also be carefully scrutinized. Qualifications can be highly detailed and in some cases, rather difficult to comply with.

Agencies who offer grants are very picky. If you can’t show that your business has a strong potential for succeeding, you’ll find it difficult to win a grant.

Where to find a business startup grant
There are several sources of business startup grants that you can tap. These include:

State
Asking for a state-provided business startup grant is an excellent first option because it is relatively easy to apply for. Competing applicants are also lesser in number compared to those you will meet at the national level. Applying is also convenient and you’re likely to receive a positive response since these state agencies have a good understanding of the market and the business industry in general.

A caveat, though: applying for a business startup grant from this source is easy but it does have a few challenges. Most grants are designed to address a specific need in the business, such as purchase of supplies or inventory, construction, etc. You’ll have to be very creative in making sure that your business plan is a match to the available funding.

Federal
The national government offers several opportunities for you to apply for and receive a business startup grant. However, there are some specific requirements you’ll have to meet to qualify. Most of the grants available through federal funding are designed to assist non-profits. If you want to win a grant from this source, make sure you look carefully for opportunities that for-profit businesses like yours can qualify for.

Local government departments
There are business startup grants that are available for entrepreneurs with special needs. Women, minority groups and people with physical disabilities are often recipients of these grants. These sectors usually have special needs that may not always be given priority by more traditional grant providers.

Advantages and disadvantages of business grants
Unlike loans, business startup grants are free money

Understand how the cleaning service industry works.
Anybody could probably clean a house or an office building with a little effort but not everybody can and should go into business doing it professionally. You should, for example, try to identify your target market.

In a tough economy, some people may not be too open about spending money just to have their homes or businesses cleaned. It would help if you could find a good client base first before you start your business. Knowing who your competitors are

Choose residential or commercial.
Residential cleaning services are quite easy to start, provided you have the equipment and access to an ideal location. Residential services could consist of maid services, carpet cleaning and garage organizing. Commercial services, on the other hand, could include professional janitorial services and window cleaning. However, if you can efficiently service both types of market and still earn a good profit, you might want to consider serving both for your startup.

Consider if you’d rather go independent or buy a franchise.
A franchise is a brand and a set of procedures you buy into. There’s very little to worry about in terms of coming up with a working business plan because the franchise company will guide you on how to run the business. You only need to go by the system of guidelines provided to you.

Going independent is a good choice if you want to start your own brand, do not like to be restricted in terms of business practices or do not have sufficient funding to pay for a franchise. You’ll also have the opportunity to grow the business in the manner you prefer.

Have the necessary equipment.
A cleaning business startup is one of several businesses you can start with minimal funding. In fact, should you start small, you could actually use the equipment and supplies you have at home and be in business.

However, as your clientele grows, it will be necessary to begin adding new equipment to your business. Try to keep up-to-date regarding new cleaning techniques and gadget so you can remain competitive.

Find skilled manpower.
There is no way you can launch a cleaning business startup without access to extra manpower. For a successful business startup, look for skilled individuals to do the work. Make sure they know how to operate the equipment you have and that they are updated about new technology.

Consider a variety of services.
First, offer basic services