No businessperson in their right mind would turn down free money for his/her business. But it’s surprising just how many don’t even try in the first place!

For small and start-up businesses in particular, a business grant can be the difference between success or failure. Start-up costs are difficult to come by from private investors and the banks aren't exactly being free and easy with their cash in these 'credit crunch' affected days.

The best places to start your search for funding are in your locality. Your local council's economic development department, your local enterprise agency and your local Business Link are the logical starting points to research the potential for support in your area.

Get in touch with them and find out what kind of business / innovation they're really looking to support at the moment - and in what ways. Make sure you fully understand what the exact procedures are, and make sure you follow them to the letter when applying, even if they seem long-winded and detailed. Don't be afraid of asking them directly what factors are most likely to make your application a success.

You'll need a clear idea of exactly what you require the funding for and exactly how it will be used. The more accurate this information is, the better will be your chances of success. Prepare an effective and detailed business plan that directly supports your ideas and need for funding.

Potential funders will want to be 100% certain that the only way you can realistically move the idea forward is with their support in the form of a business grant. So you need to be sure of ground here. Why can't the cash be raised elsewhere by more conventional means? And what really sets your application apart?

If you don't get a business grant - don't despair. If your idea is good, talk to the business finance experts to see if you will be able to raise business finance by other means.