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Various government incentives exist to Help “Grow Your Business” Federal, state and local governments offer various pro-business programs. The secret is to find out that an incentive exists, and simply apply for it. Grants Grants are the most coveted form of business assistance. Grants are the closest thing you will ever see that resembles “free money”. So long as you follow the essential terms of the grant, there will be no expectation of repayment. This is not a loan or an investment in your business. It is simply money to help you get your business going, to help it grow further, or to expand it in new directions. The best resource for business-related grants would be the U.S. Small Business Administration, www.sba.gov. The SBA, a part of the US Department of Commerce, has all sorts of programs to assist small businesses. In Illinois, also check with the Illinois Department of Economic Opportunity, www.illinoisbiz.biz/bus_incentives.html. Low-Interest Loans Loans are not “free money”, but the low-interest component can be a very compelling reason to apply, especially if the rate falls below today’s all-time low interest rates. The SBA’s Microloan program allows for borrowing at $10,000 or less. Keep in mind, the higher the amount at issue, the more likely there will be a security (collateral) requirement as a condition of the loan. This voice over Helpful Hint is
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