Hello,

Our company is interested in getting a grant to startup our web hosting business. How do we go about doing this? Are there any special people for this? And is there anything else we need to know?

Thank you!

A grant from whom? I would start locally, many communities have services for small businesses. Try the Chamber of Commerce, or a local bank.

All I can say is get ready to write a business plan :)

Originally posted by Mind-Field
Hello,

Our company is interested in getting a grant to startup our web hosting business. How do we go about doing this? Are there any special people for this? And is there anything else we need to know?

Thank you!

Just wondering Who is "we" is? Which company are you working for?

Thanks,
-Dan

Hello,

Thank you for your replies. We are looking for a small business grant. We are not sure from whom, since we are fairly new to the business venture. What is all required to receive a grant? I really appreciate all of your help!

Thank You!

Hello,

I didn't see your post about "we". Our company ("we") prefer not to disclose our company name, so that we may introduce it to the market newly. Unless you have suggestions for this, they may be considered.

Thank you!

LOL - I love it when people just think they can ask and the govt. will throw money at them. Quit watching Matthew Lesko is his question mark suit and forget about getting something for nothing.

If you're seriously considering seeking government aid in your business venture you better have a world class management team with a lot of experience and a background in the industry you wish to start a business.

Then, develop a thorough business plan and start seeking financial backing... from multiple revenues: government grants, VC funding, small business loans, etc.

I will tell you this... it's a lot harder than you think. People won't just throw money at you because you ask. The easiest way to get startup capital is to get a small business loan from someone like the Small Business Administration (SBA). Good luck. If you want some free advice contact your local Chamber of Commerce or SBA... they usually provide small business seminars and advice for free or a very small fee.

Originally posted by Mind-Field
Hello,

I didn't see your post about "we". Our company ("we") prefer not to disclose our company name, so that we may introduce it to the market newly. Unless you have suggestions for this, they may be considered.

Thank you!

Ok, was just curious.

Thank you.
-Dan

How old are you?

First off, you must be 18 years old. That should end this thread, but if it doesn't:

Even getting SBA assistance is extremely difficult. Unless you have large amounts of cash, or assets (equity in a home possibly), the SBA is going to require a significant amount of cash out of your pocket. Actually an SBA loan is far more difficult to get than a conventional loan.

If someone is just going to give you a grant to start a business that 1000 other people are doing, in a flood market - sign me up - I'll take one too!

It's the "get rich quick" mentality... they flood in thinking they can get free money to do nothing and become millionaires instantly... just doesn't happen like that...

It doesn't??? Don't ruin my dreams!

Hey why don't you try to help this person out or get out of the thread? You guys are assuming quite a bit going by your posts. Christ what a bunch of negative people you are.

If there is some way for you to be "woman-owned" then there are special avenues and help for that. Especially in the technology sector.

And as some have said, you really need to start on a business plan right away and beat it to death. It's a good idea anyway but for funding of any kind it is a whole new game.

Well, if you'll look at my first post you'll see that I did give them advice, and I'm not just trying to assume anything... but many times in posts like these people just want something for nothing. I'm not being harsh or unrealistic... this is reality.

SBA loans are much easier to get than grants, and just being a woman in the technology sector won't do anything to get you a grant or my wife would own my business.

Do a little research and come back with actual information... I have spent countless hours in libraries looking for grants, loans, VC, angel investors, etc. for several ventures I've started. Yes, I have succeeded in gaining financial backing as well. I own a retail business with an e-commerce website that ships product all over the world. We received both SBA and private financing.

I would be happy to answer any direct questions about getting financing or loans to start a business but don't feel like writing an essay for someone who comes in just so say "how do I get free money?"

WonderMonkey,

Thank you for your help! The reason We are looking for funding is because so many hosting companies have fallen through due to either they spent too much money and have little return or did not have enough money to do this.

We do not wish to have $15,000+. We do not wish $25 dollars; We would like to get a happy medium. At least something to provide our servers while our company grows. Not to get rich quick.

We really wish if you can't help, please don't post.

Thank you all again for your help!

Woman owned does get special consideration where I am at. My former employer started out that way just a few years ago. It was a great deal for him/her. Milage may vary.

Hey why don't you try to help this person out or get out of the thread? You guys are assuming quite a bit going by your posts. Christ what a bunch of negative people you are.

Amazing. I love how when someone speaks reality and what is so obvious, they are asked to leave a thread.

I am not being negative, just realistic.
I hope this individual has great success, that would be excellent!
Now let's get down to reality, and back down to earth.

Funding for 'web hosting' projects are available. You really should have a proven track record, solid education, and some assets to be considered. The government, banks, SBA, or VC are not going to consider anyone that a minimum doesn't have a solid financial portfolio and a bullet proof business plan.

IMHO - asking for a grant/loan, and then doing the legwork: such as the financials, business plan.....is 'putting the cart in front of the horse' as we say in Texas.

If we all agreed wouldn't WHT be so boring?


:D

Hello,

Also, we may be interested in paying someone to either write and apply for the grant on our company’s behalf, or provide grant consulting.

Thank you!

May I ask... do you have a business plan? Marketing plan? Do you know exactly how much money you need? 5 year plan? Is your business incorporated? LLC? Sole-Proprietership?

If you are seeking grant money are you (or your spouse) a minority? If so, have you contacted any organizations relating to your minority to ask them about special programs?

Also, have you contacted your local SBA and Chamber of commerce? They can provide cheap or free help as I mentioned before.

$15,000 is too low for a loan or grant.
Honestly if you don't have $15,000, you need to get a job and save some more money first. Build some credit. There is really no need to borrow $15,000 from anyone other than yourself.

Realistically when you ask someone for a loan/grant they will more than likely need access to every financial document in your name. Bringing nothing to the table is a sure way to get laughed at.

CDHost,

No, we do not have any of that. The reason for this thread was to ask how we go about getting a grant.

I really wish you would stop speaking 'reality' as you call it, and help or please stop posting.

Thank you!

Here is some good advice...

go to http://www.sba.gov

look up SCORE. This is a group of volunteers. Usually old men. They are all retired business men. Some of which have made a very good living, and know what they are doing. You can go in and meet with them for free. Tell them your idea, they will give you DIRECTION.

I have used them, and would use them again.

Talk to your accountant.

Originally posted by Mind-Field
CDHost,

No, we do not have any of that. The reason for this thread was to ask how we go about getting a grant.

I really wish you would stop speaking 'reality' as you call it, and help or please stop posting.

Thank you!

Well, the reason I asked is because to get a grant, loan or any type of funding you will need to have: Established business structure
Well written business plan
Financial statements with projections up to 5 years
Marketing planAnd if you're a member of a minority that's where you need to start looking.

Why did you ask for help if you didn't want replies?

CDHOST: Should we send him the link for the website with the free grants?

Originally posted by CDHost

Why did you ask for help if you didn't want replies?

C'mon... post the link to where you a click a button and money drops into your bank account. We all know you're withholding that information!








:D

Why are you interested in a grant? Are you a government-based institution?

~ B

Please, stop... I appreciate your help, but you don't have to insult me at the same time. I am trying to be nice. Please, I would really like you to stop the insults. I do want th replies.

Thank you!

Originally posted by Q5Design
Why are you interested in a grant? Are you a government-based institution?

Well, why not? Grants are "free money" and don't have to be paid back (under most circumstances)... so anyone watching late-night TV can get excited about all your dreams coming true if you just order Matthew Lesko's book...

Oh wait, here's that web address you wanted... enjoy! All the grants and government aid you could ever need...

http://www.governmentgrant.com/

Enjoy

Q5Design: Our company is not a government-institution.

Intraweb: Why are you so interested in my age? Just because I don't return insults or do not jump out using vial language means, I am under 18?

That is o.k. if you want to dodge the question...

My curiousity kills me...

the age assumptions probably come from the fact that ur screen name is kidgenius77

on another note, who gives out grants to webhosts? do u mean a loan?

the age assumptions probably come from the fact that ur screen name is kidgenius77

EXACTLY! Maybe I wasn't being rude after all?:D

rlynch: Perhaps, I may have had that screen name for a while, and I have become over the age of 18 and still use it. Has that thought ever accrued to you?

intraweb: If I wish to dodge the question, I can do that since this is my thread and that is my screen name.

I am tired of being insulted about questions that I ask, yes some maybe stupid but, I would expect better support from the community. :(

I don't think you are stupid. The fact that you asked for assistance in the first place shows initiative.

We are just picking at you. If you read the responses carefully, you will see some valuable advice. I gave you a lot of very good advice, utilizing SCORE, saving more money, etc., etc.,

You just aren't listening, and are only picking up the negative - where we are just picking at you...

If the community was so bad, you wouldn't have received so many good responses with very valid points. If people pick at you or laugh at you, it is usually for good reason. That is a learning tool as well.

What information specifically can we answer for you at this point? I will PM you the link to the website with the free money, I don't want to post it so everyone can view it. Allow 48 hours for the money to get deposited to your acocunt, please. :D

ok I'll try to make this clear for you I was offered almost half a million dollars to open a hosting/co-lo company, I didn't take it since I had other plans at the time and at age 20 I wanted to enjoy life a little, Since my business at the time was stealing all my time.
There were a few other minor reasons as well but I felt I made a good choice.

I was offered that money by a financial consultant who was a client and good friend of mine, he owns several companies and was heavy into the currency exchange and stock markets, he also saw how good I was at what I did and the level of experience I had.

Now if you’re looking for someone to back you should seek out people who will have faith in the idea which will require a VERY GOOD business plan to even get them to call you back.
Banks are almost useless, best thing I can think of would be contact financial/investment companies in your area, ask if they would be interested in funding your startup for a nice return percentage for them, you’ll then need to submit a nice business plan to them with startup costs, projected sales and growth etc…

The way the economy is right now you’re probably going to have a hard time finding someone to give you money, but it doesn’t hurt to try and there’s always a good ol bank loan if all else fails.

Also not to bust your bubble but if your not at least 18 and/or don’t have a nice amount of provable experience in or relating to hosting you can forget anyone backing you with funding of any kind.

intraweb,

Thank YOU!!!! I appreciate you telling me this, and yes I have also picked out the good information too, and for that I all thank you!!!!

I also have some problems telling when people are joking or if they are for real, since this is the computer and there is no tone or anything on these darn PC's. hehe.

Are you for real about the 48 hour money? I will assume not. lol

Thanks again!!

I am for real. I know of one site that will give you $5000 or less within 48 hours to use as you please. They can send it to your pay pal account as well. These are grants that never need payed back. It is from a large tech foundation, most people don't know about.

It will get you off the ground. Do you want me to PM you the link?

Jason007,

Thank you for your reply. The reason I wish not to go for loans or investments is because if the business fails, then I am still stuck paying the money out of mine and my partner's pocket.

A grant maybe be a lot of work, but we may be willing to do this.
If anyone has ANY other suggestions, please let me know!

Thank you all again!

YES! Yes! Yes! Yes!! Yes!!!

Thanks!!!!

David

I don't know, I am afraid you will give it out to someone. Just make sure no one else gets the link.

intraweb,

I promise. I will not give out this information unless authorized from you.

Please send your IM/email addy if possible too.

Gee, I think I lost the link...

I had it written down right next to my winning lottery jackpot ticket from last night, since I knew I wouldn't lose the ticket...

Sorry I can't find it.

No.................. PLEASE, PRETTY PLEASE tell me your joking...

:( :( :( :bawling: :bawling: :bawling:

Please find it, this may help me suceed with my dreams of the hosting business. PLEASE!

No, no, no.. :bawling:

This is very upsetting. :bawling:

intraweb,

Are you joking with me? Or are you for real?
I am hoping you are joking. Please.

Thank you!

Please IM me at my bellow contact's.

Hahaha

man, that really gave me a good laugh :)

What did? I am for real, I was counting on that grant to get our company going.

intraweb,

that was too cruel. on the other hand, anyone who can not recognize sarcasm of such proportions deserves it =]

Originally posted by Mind-Field
The reason I wish not to go for loans or investments is because if the business fails, then I am still stuck paying the money out of mine and my partner's pocket.

Welcome to the world of business - if you don't risk anything you won't gain anything. It's not easy and you might not succeed. If you can't handle that then don't start a business.

Oh, and just for your information... there is no site that will just give you $5000 - you must be more naive than I originally thought. Do me a favor and just forget about getting a grant for a minute. If that's what your entire business is depending on you're in trouble.

I'm not trying to cut you down... just to bring some perspective to the situation. No one just gives money away... if you still don't believe me go ahead any buy Matthew Lesko's book and find out for yourself...

Just so you guys know, I was not referring to those where where trying to bring reality into the picture, that needs done. I was referring to the blatent negativity towards the guy when they where assuming certain information.

Most posts have been helpful to some degree.

On a more serious note... ;)

The SBA would be your best bet -- if you're a minority ran company, you'll have lots of luck over there (well at least better luck).

Grants aren't that easy to come by, really, they're not.

Even I had a hard time convincing the SBA to help me out some. Minority owned (since I am a woman), and had a solid business plan... Still nothing.

Another place that'll probably give you better insite, is:
http://www.businessownersideacafe.com/

There's a bulleitn board over there where you can ask ppl that know about grants, etc, and they'll answer you straight up, no horsing around *clears throat*.

You may want to look into Venture Capital -- some require a pay back, other's done... and some require a real say in how the business is run and be a part of your company (a higher up officer, etc). But the above is not advised really -- they usually want to rule the whole thing -- no leeway at all.

Best bet though... Save up some money. Really its not that hard to start up a hosting company. Any one with a couple hundred dollars, can do it -- very easily. As more customers come in, you'll have enough money laying around to be able to expand your business -- aka buying new servers, etc.

That's my 2 cents.

Hope I could help you some.

rockergrrl,

Thank you for your suggestion. I will save the money, and god willing will be able to have enough to run our business.

Thank you all for all of everyones help!

Thanks again!

Glad I could help you out some... sometimes the guys there don't take things seriously... just excuse them ;)

Really, it is better to do everything yourself. There's less heartache in the end (it may not seem like it to begin with at times). But it only takes a few hundred dollars really to start out. Most of that is the setup cost for your server, and you can get a rent a decent server for less than $200/month -- that's unmanaged (managing isn't that hard either if you know what you're doing). My server cost $200 for the initial setup, and $130/month. And had a few hardware upgrades along the way (cost $150 setup to upgrade my ram from 512mb to 1gb).

And if you have to, start out reselling for a bigger company (that has a good record in support/service), and when things get up there (shouldn't take that long), upgrade to a dedicated server. That'll save you some start up costs in the beginning, and by the time you need a dedicated server of your own, you shouldn't have any problems coming up with the money to pay for it.

Hope I could help you out some.

If you ever need some advice, please feel free to get a hold of me -- I'm more than happy to help :)

rockergrrl,

Thank you again! Would you mind emailing me? My email address is: dgtech (a) riverview.net, if possible could you send an Instant Messenger username?. I would like to ask a few other questions. Also, do you have a company/web site of your own, that I can take a look at?

Thank you!

David

Email sent

I was ok with everything up to this point:

"Originally posted by Mind-Field
The reason I wish not to go for loans or investments is because if the business fails, then I am still stuck paying the money out of mine and my partner's pocket."

I just don't know what to say about that.