When starting up your own small business, the first priority would be to find start-up capital. The best capital to get is the small business grants such as free grants that you never have to pay back, or other types of grants that are more like loans and require repayment with interest.

New business owners and existing business owners are eligible to apply for business grants. There is a wide array of Federal business grants available such as Free Government Money for Minorities, Free Government Money for Women, and Obtain Free Government Money for equipment, rent, offices, expenses and overhead

There are numerous sources to find the best business grants:

* The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance is a major provider of business grant money.

* The Federal Register is another good source to help you keep current with the continually changing federal grants offered.

* FedBizOpps is another great resource, as all federal agencies must use FedBizOpps to notify the public about contract opportunities worth over $25,000.

* The U.S. Government’s Grants has its own website where you can find, obtain information and apply for many of the grants that are available.

* Government’s Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) provides a listing of Government grants and other types of assistance that you can receive.

Federal law mandates that government agencies and private foundations give away over 1 trillion dollars to individuals and businesses. Foundations are required by law to distribute 5 percent of their market value assets or interest income annually, whichever of these amounts is greater, or risk losing their tax-exempt status.

The incentive for giving away grants is great. First, elected officials seeking reelection give away billions in government cash so that people vote for them; second, big corporations save a lot of money in taxes by giving money to foundations.

Another option when starting your business would be to apply for private grants from foundations and corporations. Foundations award grants to businesses that are able to help the foundation reach its long-term goals. In the United States there are more than 65,000 private grant foundations which award more than $20 billion to applicants. Two good resources for private grants are the Foundation Center and the Council on Foundations.

For more on Business Grants visit Small Business Grants. Susan also enjoys writing at Health and Fitness.

Author: Susan Jan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Humorous photo captions

Great efficiency

The battery of an electric bike has a shelf life spanning one or two years. With 300 charging sessions the battery can run across 15000 kilometers. The bike’s blade provides horsepower. This is as powerful as the power produced by a regular 250 4-stroke motor. The blade continues to run silently while delivering exceptional performance. Depending on the type of ride the blade controls can be adjusted. The weight of an electric bike is also much lesser as compared to a regular bike. This again works to the user’s advantage.

Big dividends

Many people refrain from purchasing an electric motorcycle because they are daunted by the high costs. However, this is just an initial setback. When considered over a long term perspective electric motorcycles work out far cheaper than their gasoline counterparts. When your bike runs on electricity the fuel costs are just 1/10th of what it would be on a gasoline bike!

Zero emissions

The primary advantage of an electric motorcycle is the fact that there are virtually no gaseous emissions. Besides, these bikes operate on silent mode which means you are in a way helping to reduce noise pollution! The advantage with an electric motorcycle is that you can afford to do away with gas stations altogether. All that is needed is a couple of hours of charging everyday and your bike’s batteries are good to go!

Low maintenance

If you love a bike that provides high service without you having to spend too much time on maintenance then the electric bike is your answer. You do not need to keep changing the oil as you would in case of a gasoline run bike. Plus since your bike runs on electricity instead of oil there is less residue build up on the bike. That means a lesser need for regular washing and cleaning.

Fun and different!

The beauty of electric bikes is that they offer the consumer a very different riding experience. We all have ridden a gasoline bike at some point of our lives. However, an electric run bike is a different story altogether. The thrill of seeing your bike run for hours without the need for any fuel is a powerful impetus to get an electric bike! Plus you obviously end up saving a lot since you will not be spending precious money on fuel. This is a win-win situation and you will also be doing your own bit to conserve our environment.

So if you are looking for a bike that is high on efficiency, low on costs and helps save the environment the electric bike is the only answer!

According to leading experts, motorists are getting hosed, because the dealers at the pump wait several days before they pass on the savings to their customers, effectively padding their bottom line. So even with the slight relief, gas-saving awareness remains very high. Not to mention that high gas prices have also forced us to look for cleaner alternatives to oil.

If we decrease our oil consumption in favor of cleaner technologies, we not only decrease our personal energy bill and our nation’s dependence on foreign oil, but we also contribute to helping the environment, which is a win-win situation.

While we would all love to drive a hybrid, it’s not feasible for all of us right now (and the waiting lists on those babies are just increasing by the day). With that in mind, let’s see what we can do to get the most out of our current cars. Here are a few of the suggestions I’ve found online to make our gas take us farther. Some of them are obvious, others I find to be doubtful

*Combine trips. Cut down on the short trips. Those are the most inefficient ones: your car’s engine is not warm yet and thus doesn’t run as efficiently as it could. So it’s a good thing to visit as many places as possible in one trip, as you’ll get a better mileage. Plus fewer trips means less gas.

*Make sure that you tires are properly inflated. Your car’s owner’s manual has specific information on proper pressure for your tires. When your tires aren’t properly inflated, they don’t give your car the traction that it’s supposed to have, and that decreases your mileage.

*Change your air filter regularly. As you can certainly imagine, clogged air filters reduce the efficiency of your engine and/or air conditioner because they’re not working in optimal conditions. As a result, your gas mileage suffers and your transportation budget increases (by as much as 10%)

Pay attention to your gas gauge. If you seem to go through a tank of gas too quickly compared to the usual, maybe it’s time for an oil change or a tune-up.

*Check out sites such as www.gasbuddy.com and www.gaspricewatch.com to learn about cheap gas deals in your area. Local news stations also feature “cheap gas” resources, or other sites with similar information. Odds are, you’ll find a website that goes something like www.[yourstate]gasprices.com to give you some local information.

*Avoid excessive accelerating, braking and idling. Experts agree that gas mileage is significantly decreased as speeds increase. Save gas and money by driving the speed limit and never any faster than 60 miles per hour. Also, engine technology has come a long way and it doesn’t require that much gas to start an engine; so rather than let your car sit running for several minutes, turn it off, you’ll use less gas.

*Map out your trip before you hit the road. Consult Mapquest, Google Maps, or Yahoo Maps to help you find the shortest, most direct way to get to your destination.

*If you’re planning to buy a new car, check out Consumer Reports or www.fuelecomony.gov for information on cars with the best and worst mileage before you make that purchase.

*Monitor air conditioning usage. At speeds lower than 40 miles per hour, it can be more fuel efficient to roll down your windows. Personally, I’m on the fence on this one.

*Empty your trunk. Gone are the days where it was advisable to have extra weight in your trunk to “stabilize” your car. Nowadays all it does is weigh down your car… and your wallet.

*Learn about hypermiling. It’s the science (art?) of driving in a way that absolutely maximizes the mileage you get out of your car. There are plenty of news reports online on the practice and its benefits.

Consider carpooling. Many people hate carpooling because it limits your flexibility and privacy. Still, it can be a great option. Car pooling can save hundreds of dollars annually and is kind to the environment, thanks to reduced emissions. What’s not to love?

Americans literally have love affairs with their cars but high gas prices have turned it into a bit of a love-hate relationship lately. Spending less on gas and helping the environment might just put some spice back into said relationship.

Sailing can be a fairly green hobby, but there are issues to be aware of.

We have put together a handy guide to help you think about Green Sailing. By taking a few simple steps, you can keep future costs of sailing down and sustain high quality water and local environments.

Fuel Oil and fuels are the most frequently reported pollutant of inland waters in England and Wales. Most damage comes from refuelling, engine emissions and oil leaks.

- Use a funnel when pouring fuel or oil – Good maintenance of fuel lines, connections and seals helps avoid leaks – A drip tray under the engine is a requirement on many waterways. If it starts getting oily, find and mend the leak!

Appreciate wildlife In the UK we have an abundance of thriving wildlife. It is our responsibility as sailing enthusiasts to ensure that we do everything in our power to protect it.

- Slow down if you are creating excessive wash – it can erode banks, disturb nesting birds and damage sensitive vegetation – Find out whether the areas you visit are protected, and why. There may be vulnerable seabed species, so beware of dragging your anchor – Minimise the amount of soaps and detergents used in onboard sinks, showers and washing machines. Avoid using products which contain chlorine and bleach which are toxic to flora and fauna, phosphates which can encourage algal growth and triclosan. If you use cleaning products select environmentally sensitive ones.

Limit noise and exhaust fumes Exhaust emissions are made up of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides and various pollutants. The Government has stated that by 2005, 5% of fuel must come from renewable sources such as biodiesel.

- A badly maintained engine consumes more fuel and expels more emissions than a well maintained one, so ensure your engine has a regular service – Fitting noise insulation around you engine can reduce airborne noise by up to 85% causing less disturbance to wildlife and making life on board more comfortable – When buying a new boat for inland waterways, consider an electric powered craft. They have no exhaust emissions and are very quiet

Hazardous Waste Incorrect disposal of waste is unnecessary – by using recycling facilities and reducing our waste, we are all contributing to a more environmentally friendly environment.

- Cigarette ends can harm birds and last up to 5 years. Smokers should keep a small tin in their pocket to stub out and keep butt ends. – Invest in starch-based rubbish bags for short trips. They break down in 12-18 months rather than 20 years plus for regular plastic bags. – Prevent rubbish from blowing overboard. Remove excess packaging and recycle it at home.

Beware of alien species Alien species are non-native species that have become established outside their normal habitat or native country. A growing cause of concern is fast-growing species such as Zebra Mussels. They can block engine cooling water intakes resulting in engines over-heating.

- Clean all parts of the boat, trailer and equipment that come into contact with the water before leaving the water catchment. Remove any visible plant, fish, animal matter and mud. – Do not run through water plants and weed if avoidable. If caught up on the hull or propeller they can be transferred to another area. – Risks of acquiring invasive hitchhikers on the boat increase the longer the boat is kept in the water. Why not consider keeping the boat in the water ONLY when it is needed.

It’s vital that we all maintain a healthy respect for the sea and work together to protect our shores. If in doubt, remember the 3 R’s…Reduce, Reuse and Recycle!

So what kind of advertisers would dare to put their commercials on such a controversial show? During the first commercial break, I decided to keep a list of all the spots I saw during that hour.

First off, there were 32 commercials in this one hour. Thirty-freakin’-two. I wouldn’t have recalled a single one of them if I hadn’t written them down. That’s 16 minutes worth of commercials—not counting Fox’s own promos. Simply put, there’s too damned much advertising for any of it to be effective. When will TV networks get the hint?

But quantity of ads is an easy fix. What intrigued me even more was that as I was confronted with melting icecaps, fragile ecosystems and some very dire predictions, not one marketer thought this program and its subject matter deserved any special attention or special message.

The first commercial of the hour was for a new one-use plastic dental floss device that’s already pre-threaded. So right off the bat, I’m hit with a product whose main benefit is that you can use it once and throw it straight into the garbage. Which, in turn, goes to some landfill somewhere, never to decompose. While this product may have an interesting benefit, the first thought I had after seeing this commercial was how wasteful the product is—and how wasted the client’s money was placing it on this show.

5 car manufacturers were brave enough, or foolish enough, to advertise on Fox’s global warming special. 3 of them touted cars with V8 engines. And one was specifically promoting a car with an “air-cooled glove box” – which I’m guessing simultaneously keeps your stuff cool in our now extra-globally-warmed environment and spews more crap into the environment because of the extra needed refrigerant. More wrongheaded media planning.

The only oil company that advertised on the show wasn’t advertising its cleaner gas, alternative fuel sources or new environmental initiatives, it was pushing a credit card for its gas stations. Another dubious media placement.

The rest of the spots seemed incredibly random—beer, investments, assorted pills, delivery services, an electric shaver, a couple of dot-coms, wireless service, a diabetes meter. And a couple of hideous local TV spots for extra suffering.

After I reviewed the list of advertisers, I wondered: Where’s all this supposed creativity in media? Where’s the planning? Is anyone responsible for these ad placements paying attention?

Why was I watching a TV show on global warming and no one tried to sell me a hybrid car or a bicycle? I was in the mood to listen. Whether a product represented a major lifestyle change or a little eco-friendly gesture, any advertiser seeking to appeal to an environmentally conscious audience had their chance—and blew it.

Now, I’m not a media planner. So I couldn’t tell you if there’s a way to always ensure that appropriate messages match the appropriate TV programming. But as TV ratings come under increasing scrutiny, the key to television advertising’s future effectiveness may not come through numbers, but through the relevance and appropriateness of when and where people see that advertising. Of course, you can’t convert that idea into an equation and slap it into an Excel document to justify your 15% commission.

So thanks to Fox, I learned quite a bit about our environment—both the physical and mental ones. If you don’t believe me, do what I did. Sit for an hour and watch TV uninterrupted. Pay attention to what pops up during the commercial breaks.

The power of television advertising won’t die, but it’s melting away. And while it’s partially a function of time and technology, it’s also partially something the ad industry has brought upon itself. And the time to take action is now. Otherwise, all of our careers could be facing extinction.

There are various forms of publicly funded support for business including schemes such as the old small firms loan guarantee and the current enterprise finance guarantee scheme intended to help businesses borrow from commercial sources; through ’soft’ loans and forms of equity investment usually channeled through enterprise agencies and administered on their behalf by local agencies or smaller venture capital firms; and on to grants which are ’sums of money given to an individual or business for a specific project or purpose’.

Grants, free money or time consuming nightmare?

The first thing to say about grants is that while they do not usually cover all of the costs of a project, they do have the great attraction that so long as you adhere to the grant’s conditions you do not either have to repay it the way you would with a loan, or have to part with a share of your business to an equity investor.

They are normally given to assist in business development and so are usually linked to either investment in new premises or plant and equipment; or to a particular activity such as training or new product development.

So if grants are so attractive, what are the downsides? Businesses can find that the application process can be long and time consuming as well as a bit of a gamble with no guarantee of success.

Simply identifying the schemes that your business may be eligible for can be difficult given the range of grants available and funders involved from local authorities, Regional Development Agencies, central government and European Union funding, to non-government organizations such as the Prince’s Trust, and quangos such as the National Endowment for Science Technology and the Arts (NESTA) or the Carbon Trust; each within their own application process.

Each funder will have its own objectives which will drive the criteria they will want you to meet which can include:

- the size of your business, as some will only be available for micro or small or medium-sized businesses (SMEs)
- your industry, as some schemes will exclude specific sectors while others will be narrowly targeted;
- your location, as designated economic regeneration areas will usually have more generous schemes than other areas; as well as
- your planned use of the funds.

Grants are usually thought of as enabling funding designed to allow a project to go ahead which would not do so if the grant was not available. As a result, very few grants are retrospective (as you have obviously managed to do whatever it is without having the grant in place) so you will need to apply in advance for a grant for your project which can obviously result in a delay in starting if it has to await the outcome of an application.

Again as ‘enabling funding’ few grants provide the whole finance required for a project so you will generally have to arrange to raise the balance of the funds required elsewhere, and you will often be asked to prove this is in place.

In some situations, such as training grants, you may be allowed to count the cost of your or your staff’s time that is contributed towards the project as part of the matching funding ‘in kind’.

The grant may also not cover all parts of your project in which case you will need to arrange funding to pay for these parts yourself.

It is important to also bear in mind that even once a grant has been awarded, it still has to be paid which will often be in arrears once you have submitted proof of your expenditure and often payment. You will need to check your project’s cash flows carefully to make sure you are able to fund the project until the grant cash actually arrives in your bank account.

Given the level of information that can be required, a grant application may be a time consuming activity. The approval process can also be prolonged, is sometimes subject to the availability of the pot of funds (as they do run out), and it may also require you to make business commitments, such as numbers of jobs or location of premises, that can restrict your ability to make changes to your business.

Against this, the substantial sums that can be raised by way of grants mean that in any large project the prospects of obtaining a grant should be investigated.

Business turnaround grants

Moreover, it’s also worth noting that in addition to support for investment in capital projects, some sources of funding can also provide grants in respect of support for salaries and wages over periods of up to two years where jobs have either been secured or saved, which will include turnaround situations and also some business purchases. As a result of the current recession some substantial grants are being made on this basis, on relatively tight timescales as the government is looking to help support sustainable businesses (and the employment they provide).

To access these sorts of schemes businesses should speak to some of the specialist grant advisors who can search the mass of schemes on offer to identify the types and levels of grant for which you may qualify, and then help in managing the application process so as to raise this type of finance as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Of course the information contained in an article like this can never be a full statement of the legal position as the relevant laws are complex and liable to change. This article can only therefore be a general guide as to the issues involved and you should always seek appropriate professional advice on your own particular circumstances before taking any action.

Mark Blayney is a UK Institute for Turnaround accredited business rescue expert specializing in owner managed businesses. For more information on Government business grant aid; a free copy of his 13 Key Steps Guide to managing a crisis and a turnaround; or a free referral to a local expert, contact him at: http://www.turnaroundanswers.com

Author: Mark Blayney
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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The last few days focused a lot on the bailout and the rescue for Wallstreet. What has become clear for all of us is the fact that prices have increased, starting with fuel after the Katrina Hurricane a few years ago, and now affecting almost every aspect of life.

In addition, what was thought to have been a never ending increase in home values (the biggest retirement nest egg for most) has come to a screeching halt and reversed to the tune of 20-30% in many areas of the country. With the collapse of one bank after another, and huge takeovers by the government (Freddie and Fanny come to mind, as well as AIG), the remaining institutions have reacted in a way that is pretty typical whenever something goes wrong in the United States.

Initially there is a tendency to squeeze out every little possible advantage of a situation and then the pendulum swings all the way to the extreme other end. Case in point: Banks and other lenders were giving away mortgages and credit lines to people without any proven income, for significantly overpriced houses, and to top it of, they didn’t ask for any down payment, any principle payment, and even substituted the remaining interest payments – all with the claim that the rising value of the property will take care of everything in 2-3 years.

If you, as a private person, have paid your mortgage the old fashioned way, every month, with interest and principle, and based on a down payment of 10-20%, you would think those banks and lenders you worked with would appreciate your good behavior and see you as a great customer.

Your house is probably still worth more than you borrowed for it, even after all the corrections. But- if you would go and ask for a new mortgage or a new line of credit right now, chances are you will not get it, regardless how well you behaved the last 5 years.

It’s not that nobody likes you, but the banks and lenders have decided not to take any risk anymore. Now they want to know everything they never asked for in the past – and then some, before they would even consider giving you any money.

What does that have to do with the environment and eco-consciousness?

Well, in the last few years organizations, Nobel-prize winners (like Al Gore) and ordinary shareholders demanded that lenders and banks would pay attention to the impacts of projects on the environment and the policies of the companies they gave money to.

Have you ever asked yourself how it was possible that thousands upon thousands of houses were build during the real estate boom and almost none of them had a solar panel or a heat exchanger in sight? They were build fast and cheap, even though most real estate is going to be around for 50 years and all the required technologies were available.

While states all across the country mandated to the energy companies to produce ever increasing portions of energy with alternative means (Wind, Solar, wave-actions, etc.), the building industry received money hand over fist without any of those demands. Actually builders frequently had problems getting money if they wanted to implement these eco-systems because it would make their buildings less competitive compared to other players in the same market.

While all this has been going on, the consumers and investors (shareholders) have been demanding more environmental sensitivity by the companies they own or finance. In October 2007, discussing the value of so called Renewable Energy Credits (REC’s) that companies buy when they don’t really reduce their impact on nature, here is what Business Week wrote:

“Johnson & Johnson has proclaimed a 17% reduction in carbon emissions since 1990, based largely on RECs. Without the credits, the pharmaceutical giant has seen a 24% increase, J&J executives acknowledge. “Recent corporate moves by J&J and others are pushing in the right direction, but it is still window dressing compared to the problem at hand,” says Hunter, the former J&J manager.

Amid the overheated claims, some corporations have made legitimate environmental gains. Wal-Mart Stores (WMT ) helped spark the market for energy-saving fluorescent bulbs by giving them top billing, even though incandescent bulbs are more profitable. Office Depot overhauled lighting and energy in more than 600 stores, contributing to the company’s real 10% decline in releases of heat-trapping gases. Dow Chemical (DOW ) and DuPont (DD ) have significantly trimmed their actual emission levels. But there is still reason to worry about long-term commitment. Dow says it invested $1 billion to help achieve reductions of 19% between 1994 and 2005. Because of technological challenges and costs, however, Dow predicts that additional cuts won’t occur until 2025, 18 years from now.”

So how does the current crises change all this? I think the same way the lenders and banks now ask us to show every detail of our income, our ability to pay our dues, our commitment to our obligations, and our willingness to limit our appetite for all sorts of consumer credit, they will follow demands of their shareholders and hold companies to the same standard.

When companies want to finance projects in the future, I believe it is very likely that banks will not only look at the financial risks, but also at the long term impact and the opinions and demands of consumers and shareholders.

Many studies have shown that the public at large in all its’ different roles as investors, consumers, employees, parents, etc. demands more green initiatives and eco-consciousness – to the tune of 75%+.

Though things might look pretty gloomy right now, I am optimistic that one of the positive outcomes of the current financial crises might well be that banks and other lenders will not just look at the numbers, but also at the impact of a project or proposal on the environment,- not because they suddenly got smart, but because their constituents on all levels simply demand it.

That’s the good thing about a painful cleansing like the one we are witnessing right now. Some unexpected benefits can come from it, and I hope we all and our children will be better of in the long run, because of it

Cane Furniture and the Economy:

Imagine you have two chairs in front of you. One is made of molded plastic and the other is weaved together with natural canes. The first may be a little cheaper than the cane furniture, but does it save money in the long run?

By spending a little more money to get genuine cane furniture, you can get something that will last a long time and is stylish. The stylish adds to the value if you ever want to resell the cane furniture. I am sure plastic molded chairs are available for sale in a used condition, but I imagine they go down in value rather than increase in value.

Not all cane furniture will increase in value, but if you take care of it, it can be a good long term investment for you and your family. With the right tender loving care, it might be something your family can pass on for generations to come.

Rattan Furniture and the Environment

Rattan and bamboo are easy to replenish sources of materials for cane furniture. This makes it environmentally friendly – or at least moreso than oil based plastics.

Not everyone considers the environment when making furniture buying decisions, but if you do, you can know you’re helping to do your little part for our planet.

It may not seem like you’re doing a lot by considering cane furniture, but when it comes to the planet, every little bit helps. And using a furniture made out of materials that are easy to replenish is a good thing.

Cane Furniture and Envy

We’ve all sat in those plastic one piece chairs you find at all the large chain stores. Everyone and their grandmother seems to have at least one around somewhere. You don’t want to be just another person with the exact same molded plastic chair, do you?

Cane furniture allows you to be a little different, to be unique and the envy of all your neighbors. Cane furniture can be an extension of your personal style.

With just a little effort to hunt it down, cane furniture can help you show your style to the world – be it classical and tasteful or modern and a little weird.

Cane Furniture and the Future

Cane furniture has been around for centuries and is sure to be a style of furniture that’s used in a lot of different places for years to come. Be sure to shop around and take your time when choosing your cane furniture because with proper care, you’ll enjoy it for many, many years.

How do you feel when you sit down at your desk every day?

Is your office chair uncomfortable, causing you irritating little aches? By 10am are you feeling sleepy, drab, slightly depressed and unmotivated? Are you busy thinking of yet another reason to escape your claustrophobic cage (even just for a few minutes)?

You’re not alone. According to a recent Microsoft Hardware Poll, over 89% of employees acknowledged office space design had a direct effect on their productivity. But often we don’t notice. And subtly, our office space drains our energy – controlling who we become at work.

So, let’s eradicate petty annoyances. Change your office into positive energy – and love the place you work. Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Redesign your office space

Nothing is worse than a cramped and cluttered office. Minimise your furniture. This will unblock trapped energy so that it flows freely around the room. And do you feel on edge every time someone enters the room behind you? Rearrange so that you have a good view of the doorway – you’ll feel in control and more relaxed. And how about your focus, are you staring at a blank wall all day? You’ll gain more inspiration if you can gaze out a light-filled window.

Deal with any scattered stashes of paperwork. Looking at these first thing in the morning will have you overwhelmed and stressed in the blink of an eye. Keep your surfaces clear. This will allow you to remain focused on the task at hand.

2. Revitalise your office space

Brighten up your area naturally. You may need to get rid of glaring fluorescent lights. Use natural lighting where possible, or layered lighting – consider combining overhead lights with soft lamp lighting.

It isn’t good working in such an artificial atmosphere. We are, after all, creatures of nature. Bring the outside in. Introduce some leafy plants, a fruit bowl, or a maybe even a goldfish in a bowl. Make sure your space circulates with fresh air – open a window, or leave a fan on. Breathing in fresh energy will enliven and motivate you.

What about any noises that aggravate you? That insistent humming water filter – fix it today!

3. Personalise your office space

Spice up your area. Accessorise. Add your own personal touch so you feel comfortable and at home. A splash of red, orange or yellow will motivate you. Or maybe you would prefer a hint of blue to clear your head during busy hours. Define yourself with some personal photos, candles or your favourite trinkets – these will ground you before a stressful meeting.

4. Ergonomics in your office space

Don’t forget about ergonomics. Are you squinting at the computer screen? Tilt the screen slightly or adjust its brightness. And the less twisting and turning in your office environment – the better! Put your current job folders and stationary all within an easy arm’s reach.

Organise your professional office space consultation today!

Do you want to know more? For a professional office space consultation, contact us today.

But do yourself and your business a favour – make these small but important changes. Your office environment will transform into an inviting haven which radiates energy. Not only will your employees achieve more in their work-day, they will feel happier and healthier. With higher productivity and appreciative customers – it can only be a win-win situation!

If you are thinking about starting a small business, you may be wondering how you can obtain this grant money and if you qualify for it. There are federal and state agencies that offer help and funding for small start up businesses as well as private foundations. Seeking them out may be a bit of a challenge but if you search diligently you will find them.

There are a few steps you can take to finding a small business grant that will fit your needs. These funding sources can be found by:

1. Doing an online search of Federal and State government websites. State funding is usually easier to find. Most states have an online web site that will help you find local funding as well as business incubators available. These websites will have information listed on what they offer small businesses and the types of funding they can obtain. Often you can apply for the grants online or download the paperwork to get started. Your local SCORE office is always a good source of business information as well.

2. Looking at private web resources that offer small business grants. There are some public and private sources for grant money that is offered for businesses that fall into a certain category such as research, and innovation. A lot of large corporations offer funding for small business and other projects that will help a local community. You can visit these sites online to obtain information on their community development grants, etc.

3. Attending seminars that will help you to learn how to write a grant proposal. Often these seminars know of resources for grant money that is not available to the general public. By attending the seminar, you will not only learn how to write a grant proposal but will be put in contact with agencies that offer grants. Your grant proposal should be professional.

There is much competition for grant money so getting educated on the grant writing process, and how grants work is paramount to increasing your chances of getting one. If your start up business has anything to do with specialized research, technology, or energy, the Federal government may be interested in helping you. The government is always looking for innovative business ideas that stand out from the crowd and help society in general.

There are other grant resources offered from independent sites that relay news and information about foundation grants and private individuals giving funds to small businesses. Be aware however that there are scams out there who do not offer legitimate information. It is best to use legitimate websites when you are looking for a grant as they will have the information that you need to apply for them. Some of these web sites offer information for a one time fee. Beware of sites that offer the information for free. READ their “terms” as some of them have hidden fees of up to 97.00 a month if you don’t return their CD within a few short days. It’s better to use a site that offers a one-time-only fee.

Author: Rebecca Game is a 30 year entrepreneur and owner of Digital-Women.com , an online networking community for women in business. Visit: Small Business Grants

Author: Rebecca Hubbard Game
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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