The management team of start-up companies have a primary concern in common: getting the cash they need for growth. John Dmohowski shares useful insight on venture capitalists, angel investors, grants, and loans in his recent post about start-up financing:

"...perhaps the most overlooked way of financing a start-up is a blend of all three: grants, loans and investors. It is critically important for entrepreneurs to know when and where sources of funding are applicable to their particular point in a start-up's life cycle."

In the minds of many entrepreneurs, grants are a desirable form of financing. The National Federation of Independent Business recently discussed procuring grants from the federal government and private funding organizations:

"Generally, in order to secure a grant, you'll need to fill out an application or a proposal that explains what you would do with the money and how it would help your business to grow. Organizations that dispel grant money don't want to throw their money away, so they tend to look for sound business plans. If you haven't taken the time to create a business plan that shines, you'll want to do that before you start looking for grants.

"One of the first places to check when looking for a grant is your own state economic development agencies often want small-business owners to succeed because that in turn helps the state's economy. Try your local Chamber of Commerce or other business assistance agencies first. They can probably direct you to resources available in your community.

"The federal government does not offer grants to small businesses directly. However, the government does provide money to organizations that provide grants to small businesses. The best way to find some of these organizations and grant opportunities is to go to http://www.grants.gov. The Web site is a one-stop shop for more than 900 grants that have are available thanks to financial support from the federal government.

"Private funding organizations also supply grants. These charitable organizations tend to be in favor of a particular cause, and if your business in any way furthers such a cause, the organizations will provide funding to help you.

"Likewise, industry associations might offer grants to small companies in that field. So if your small business is a technology company, for example, you'll want to check with all of the technology industry groups to find out whether there is any money allotted for small businesses that are just starting out.

"If you're a woman or a minority, you should check with organizations that are dedicated to business development within your community. Women business owners, for example, might find funds by checking with the Women's Business Center ."