Grant Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GRANT AND A LOAN?

A grant and a loan are different in terms of repayment, intent, accessibility, and interest. A grant is a gift that does not require repayment, unless the terms of the grant are violated. A loan is a debt that requires repayment, with interest, according to specific terms. Grantors are more concerned about how the money will be spent, while lenders are more concerned about the financial stability of the borrower. Grants are often reserved for certain types of business owners or those in certain areas or industries, while loans are issued after consideration of a company’s credit score, financial profile, and ability to pay back. Grant money is limited and competitive, while loans are often easier to obtain.

WHAT TYPES OF ORGANIZATIONS FUND NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS?

Nonprofits can receive grants from foundations, government agencies, or corporations. Foundations are nonprofit organizations or charitable trusts that fund and support other nonprofits. They can be private or public organizations. Government grants can be received at the federal, state, or local level. Some companies offer grants to nonprofits that have similar missions to theirs.

CAN BUSINESSES RECEIVE GRANT FUNDING?

Yes. Small business grants provide free money to small businesses, startups, and organizations alike. Businesses can use these funds to grow their business, recover from the pandemic or do work that benefits the public, among other purposes.

WHAT MAKES IT SO DIFFICULT TO GET A GRANT?

• Fierce Competition
• Poor Writing Skills
• Vague or Loose Financial Practices
• Lack of Industry Best Practices
• Lack of Collaborative Skills/Silos
• Not Reading the Fine Print
• Assumptions About the Problem
• Not Understanding Your Audience

DOES HIRING A GRANT WRITER HAS TO BE OVERLY EXPENSIVE?

No. Athena Grants sets its hourly rates based on an organization’s annual budget. For example, for an organization with an annual operating budget of less than $1 million dollars, Athena’s hourly rate is $25 per hour and is based on need and actual time provided. Please see our rates page for more information.

WHAT MAKES ATHENA DIFFERENT FROM OTHER GRANT WRITERS?

1. We’re local.
2. We have over 35 years of experience here in South Carolina.
3. We come from a grant writing background in the non-profit sector.
4. Through our experience we actually KNOW the grant funders on both a personal and professional level.