The value of a grant is measured by how it helps businesses thrive. Although consultants may be more interested than the businesses applying for grants, the true test of any strategy is its ability to deliver the desired outcome. We’ll be discussing the characteristics of a grant that is successful, from the nonprofit sector to business.
Non-repayable
Non-repayable grants provide benefits that do not require repayment. Once approved, these funds are yours to spend as you see fit. It is possible to plan ahead for expenses and ensure that you have sufficient funds to meet the requirements. Non-repayable grants are also an excellent option if you are looking to finance R&D projects.
Many startups and small businesses struggle to raise the capital they need. It is estimated that 79 percent of new companies fail simply because they do not have enough funding. During their first months of business, 77% of small business owners depend on personal savings. Fortunately, the government offers non-repayable grants that can help small businesses succeed.
Grants are financial gifts from a government agency, foundation, or corporation to an individual or nonprofit organization. These gifts don’t have to be repaid but there may be reporting and compliance requirements. Some grants may require waiting periods, also known as lock-up or vesting periods, before they can be fully used.
Grants can be a great source for funding but can be difficult to obtain. Many applications require a lot of research. Applicants must be sure to explain why they need the money and how they will use it. They may even need to submit graphs and charts, budget numbers, market demographics, and business plans.
Non-dilutive
A non-dilutive grant is a great way to help your small business grow and start up. This funding allows you to pay a portion of your monthly income without equity. Private lenders can approve you for this type of funding. This type of funding can be used to pay vendors or fill orders. For new businesses looking to spend money on marketing their products and services, non-dilutive startup financing is a great option.
A tax credit is another non-dilutive source of funding. A tax credit is a deduction from a company’s tax bill, and this is a good way to get some money for your business. It’s especially useful for companies in the Health and Life Sciences sectors, which can benefit from the Scientific Research & Experimental Development tax credit. This tax credit allows companies the opportunity to get a cash refund of any tax they owe for the r&d.
Bank loans are another way to obtain non-dilutive financing. A bank loan can be difficult to get, but it will not dilute your ownership in your company. Some financial institutions are willing to take a risk on your business because they believe that you will be profitable. However, most banks will hesitate to issue a loan to a startup without proven cash flow.
Non-dilutive capital comes from different sources, but it’s usually the most helpful when your business is just getting started. This type of capital can help you increase your equity, hire employees, and buy equipment. This type of financing has its limitations and can often come with additional organizational or oversight costs.

Grant awards are an important form of non-dilutive funding and are often worth pursuing. They can fund activities that add value to your company, such as clinical trials. By paying for these activities, you’ll move your company closer to a marketable product or service. When that happens, you can begin selling shares of your company.
Non-dilutive funding is a popular choice for small startups and early stage companies. It can come in the form of loans, equity financing, or a combination of these. You can also use non-dilutive financing to pay for startup expenses. You may need collateral and upfront payments are possible for loans. The lender will ultimately decide if you are eligible for a loan.
Match in-kind
In-kind match benefits an organization by allowing it to leverage non-cash contributions from third-party organizations. The third-party contributions can include a variety of items, including real property, equipment, or services. These types of contributions usually require prior approval. These types of contributions are a great way to show grantors that your organization is growing.
In-kind match donations are non-cash contributions that support grant-supported programs or projects. Non-federal third party donates goods or services that are valuable to the grant program at no cost. To be eligible, the goods and services must be of benefit to the grant program, identifiable, and used for that purpose. The contribution will usually be counted for only the time that the goods or services were provided.
Typically, the subgrantee uses the time of its board members, or the time of volunteers who work for the organization. Other matching resources include services from pro Bono attorneys, trainers, speakers, and other professionals. In-kind match benefits may also include volunteer services such as facilitating support groups, providing child care, or giving public presentations.
Third-party contributions in kind must be documented. They count towards the matching requirement. The allowable costs of in-kind contributions must be consistent with those that would be reimbursed by a government agency with Federal funds. These costs could include supplies or services, real estate, and other tangible property.
If you receive a grant and receive matching contributions, you should consider whether you can provide a match for your organization. Some grant funds require matching contributions, but you should discuss these with your grant writer. This is the only way you can ensure that the grant is fully funded. It may be possible to make the match through an in-kind match with a nonprofit partner or an organization.
Impact on society
Make sure you discuss the impact of your project on society when applying for a grant. Federal agencies are looking for projects that have a positive impact on society and align with their goals. Also, be sure to discuss how the project will be sustainable. You should include detailed outcomes and impact metrics and provide a detailed sustainability plan.