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NGExpert financial copywriter
Page written by Ashlyn Brooks. Last reviewed on September 4, 2024. Next review due October 1, 2025.
If you were wondering about grants specifically for starting a landscaping business, this is for you. While there aren’t a ton of niche grants like this, grants can be applied to a wide variety of industries, including landscaping.
Grants are perfect for providing the financial support needed to expand, innovate, or overcome challenges. Unlike loans, grants do not need to be repaid, making them an attractive option for funding. But with free money, there also comes stiff competition to be awarded.
Here’s how you can secure grants to take your landscaping business to the next level.
Grants aren’t hard to find, but it’s definitely a process. Start by identifying grants available for landscaping businesses. These can be local, state, or federal grants, as well as private grants from foundations or corporations. Look for grants specifically designed for small businesses, environmental projects, or community development to increase your chances of finding suitable funding.
Each grant will have specific eligibility criteria. For example, some grants are siloed opportunities for small businesses, veterans, etc. Make sure your business meets these requirements before applying. Pay close attention to application deadlines and the required documentation to ensure you submit a complete and timely application.
Your application, or proposal, needs to tell your story but also tell what your plans are for the grant money. Clearly outline your business goals, how the grant will be used, and the potential impact. Be sure to include a detailed budget and a timeline for your project to provide a clear plan of action.
Also, some grants may have spending guidelines that require you to show proof of where the funds are being allocated. For example, some grants may be for start-up costs while others are strictly for expansion and growth.
Consider hiring a grant writer or consultant who specializes in your industry to boost your chances of success. Also, use free resources like the Small Business Administration (SBA) or local business development centers for guidance and support throughout the application process.
After submitting your application, you need to be good at following up with the grant provider. Check in to all your submissions and make sure your materials were received and express your continued interest in the grant. This step shows your commitment and keeps you on the provider’s radar.
Grant funds can be applied to many different parts of your business. But it depends on the grants and their guidelines for the award. For example, many grants do not allow you to use a grant for debt payoff, even if the business acquired it.
In many cases, here’s how you can make the most out of the grant money for your landscaping business:
As many as you can. As with scholarships, there is no strict limit to the number of grants you can apply for. However, consider the following factors to maximize your chances of success:
Applying for multiple grants can be time-consuming. Many grants require a proposal-style submission complete with a budget, business plan, and references. While most of this can be used as a rinse-and-repeat type of application, some parts must be unique to the grant.
To increase your chances, prioritize grants based on your business needs and the likelihood of success. Then, if time permits, apply for others.
When applying for multiple grants, be aware that some grants may have restrictions on applying for multiple grants from the same provider or within a certain timeframe. To avoid disqualification, it’s essential to read the grant guidelines carefully and adhere to any specific requirements or limitations.
To maximize your chances of securing funding, it’s wise to apply for a mix of local, state, and federal grants as well as private grants. This diversified approach allows you to target both small grants for specific projects and larger grants for broader business needs, increasing the likelihood of receiving support.
Maintaining a detailed record of the grants you apply will save you from administrative headaches down the road. These can be as simple as a running document or a spreadsheet but should include deadlines, submission dates, and required follow-up actions. Keeping track of these details will help you manage multiple applications effectively and ensure that nothing falls through the cracks.
Eligibility criteria for grants can vary widely depending on the provider and the purpose of the grant. Here’s how to qualify:
Ensure your business is legally registered and meets the criteria for small businesses as defined by the grant provider. Some grants may be available specifically for sole proprietorships, partnerships, or corporations, so it’s important to understand which structure applies to your business.
Many grants require your business to be operational for a certain period, often at least one year. Keeping accurate records of your business operations and financial performance is essential to demonstrate stability and eligibility for these grants.
Clearly define how the grant funds will be used and the expected impact on your business and community. It’s important to align your project with the goals of the grant provider, whether it’s job creation, environmental sustainability, or community improvement, to enhance your chances of success.
Be prepared to comply with any reporting requirements, including financial reports, progress updates, and final impact assessments. Ensure you have the necessary systems in place to track and report on grant usage, maintaining transparency and accountability.
Some grants have specific eligibility criteria, such as being a minority-owned business, a female-founded business, or operating in a particular region. Carefully review the eligibility criteria for each grant to ensure you qualify before applying, as meeting these requirements is crucial to securing funding.
Applying for grants can be a detailed and competitive process. Follow these steps to enhance your chances of success:
Research grants that align with your business goals and eligibility. Use online databases and resources such as Grants.gov, the Small Business Administration (SBA), and industry associations to find relevant funding opportunities that match your needs.
Prepare essential documents such as your business license, tax ID, financial statements, and business plan. Ensure all documents are up-to-date and accurately reflect your business status and performance to present a strong application.
Clearly outline your project or need, detailing how the grant funds will be used and the expected outcomes. Include a detailed budget and timeline for the project, and highlight your business’s strengths, past achievements, and future potential to make a compelling case.
Carefully read and follow the grant application guidelines and instructions. Submit all required documents and information by the deadline to ensure your application is considered.
Before submitting your application, seek feedback from mentors, industry experts, or a professional grant writer. Revise your application based on the feedback to improve its clarity and impact, increasing your chances of success.
Submit your application through the designated platform or by mail, as instructed. Follow up with the grant provider to confirm receipt and address any additional requirements or questions, showing your continued interest and commitment.
Various grants can support your landscaping business, each with different focuses and benefits. Here are some key types of grants to consider:
Yes, landscaping grants are typically free in the sense that they do not need to be repaid, unlike loans. However, they may come with specific conditions and reporting requirements that must be met to maintain compliance and eligibility.
Yes, many grants can be applied for online. Websites like Grants.gov and various state and local government portals provide online application forms and submission guidelines. Also, many private organizations and foundations also offer online application processes.
To make sure a grant is legitimate, check the credibility of the grant provider, look for reviews or testimonials, and ensure they provide clear guidelines and contact information. Avoid grants that ask for upfront fees or personal financial information that seems excessive.
The setback for many budding businesses is often the lack of upfront capital, even for a labor-intensive field such as landscaping. At Swoop, our platform helps you to identify and apply for the best funding options for your landscaping business.
Contact us or ‘check our available business grants to find out how we can help you secure the financial support needed to grow your landscaping business.
Written by
Ashlyn is a personal finance writer with experience in business and consumer taxes, retirement, and financial services to name a few. She has been published in USA Today, Kiplinger and Investopedia.
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