Program
Starting a business
Salespeople, independent workers, and people standing up a small business of their own.
Salespeople and independent workers often have the skill — and not the start-up capital. IDA reviews one-time grants to open, equip, or stabilize a small business. Describe the work, what the funds would cover (equipment, a vehicle, inventory, licensing, a first lease), and how the business will support you. This is not a business loan.
IDA grant programs are not loans. If you are selected, you do not repay the award. Applying does not guarantee funds. Write plainly. Completeness matters more than perfect wording.
Letters in this category
Nadia Cole · $44,000
“I was tired of selling someone else’s product under someone else’s name.”
Frank Delaney · $55,000
“Thirty years of selling, and I still needed someone to believe the next door could have my name on it.”