Start with the SBA

While the SBA doesn't actually give grants, it does track small-business opportunities provided by other agencies ranging from the U.S. Department of Justice to the National Park Service. Note: Many involve grants of training or other services rather than cash.

I recommend: The SBA's Federal Grant Resources portal lists grants that may be available to small businesses; from there, you can link to other agencies' sites for more details.

Get the big picture

The U.S. General Services Administration also lists federal grants and other giveaways available to small businesses. Search or browse its online catalog by category (including newest opportunities and those available to women, minorities and other groups), then contact sponsoring agencies for details.

I recommend: The GSA's Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CDFA) has listings and tips on applying for government assistance.

Think creatively

Even if you can't find a grant specifically designed to expand your company, you may find one that accomplishes the same goal by funding a project in your area of expertise. Example: The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers small-business grants for research into "problems facing American agriculture" in areas ranging from nutrition to marketing.

I recommend: Browse or search the listings at Grants.gov. The federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (SBTT) programs also award project-oriented grants, primarily for high-tech initiatives.

Look close to home

State governments sometimes offer grants and frequently provide other small-business assistance, such as advice, networking opportunities and training. Local economic-development agencies may also offer help, especially in areas targeted for redevelopment.

I recommend: About.com lists Web sites for all state commerce offices; many such state sites provide links to community economic-development groups.

Contact a Small Business Development Center

This network of agencies, a public-private partnership, offers free advice and other services. SBDC staffers may be able to steer you toward applicable state, regional and local agencies offering small-business grants, advice and services.

I recommend: Find the SBDC branch nearest you.

Prepare a grant proposal

Writing a grant proposal isn't rocket science - but it does have to be done correctly. You can outsource your effort, or you can do it yourself.

I recommend: Federal Grants Wire offers expert step-by-step advice for researching and writing a grant proposal. The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) also offers proposal-writing instructions.