Video: CAIR-OK Rep Discusses Anti-Islam Amendment

(WASHINGTON, DC, 11/8/2010) — The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) today announced that a federal judge in Oklahoma has temporarily blocked an anti-Islam state ballot measure (SQ 755) that would have amended that state’s constitution to forbid judges from considering Islamic principles (Shariah) or international law when making a ruling. SEE: Order Blocks Okla. Constitutional Amendment www.ktul.com US District Judge Vicki Miles-LaGrange of the United States District Court — Western District of Oklahoma today granted a temporary restraining order blocking certification of the recently-passed ballot measure by the Oklahoma State Board of Elections. Judge Miles-LaGrange also scheduled a hearing on November 22 for arguments as to whether she should grant a preliminary injunction that would extend the restraining order until a final determination is made in the case. Last Thursday, Muneer Awad, executive director of CAIR’s Oklahoma chapter (CAIR-OK), filed a lawsuit as an individual challenging the constitutionality of the ballot measure. Awad’s lawsuit, based on his own Shariah-compliant will, said SQ 755 violates the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause that bars government bodies from making laws “respecting the establishment of religion.” SEE: Full Text of Awad’s Lawsuit www.cair.com “Today’s ruling is a reminder of the strength of our nation’s legal system and the protections it grants to religious minorities,” said Awad. “We are humbled by this
Government Grants for Women

Small business grants from private companies

Small business grants from private companies

While starting a small business, raising the start up capital is the top most priority.  The business grants such as free grants are the best capital as these need not have to be paid back.  The other types of grants are like loans which require repayment with interest charges.  Business grants are usually given to those applicants who have the solid business plan with detailed reports.  Grants are given for various types of activities like start up, education and preservation of monuments.  

There are various sources which give the business grants to the new business as well as to the existing businesses.  There are numerous grants available like Free Government money for minorities, Free Government money for Women, Free Government money for Equipment, rent, offices, etc.  

Another option is to apply for the private grants from foundations and corporations.  Foundations award grants to businesses that are able to help the foundation reach its long-term goals. In the United States there are more than 65,000 private grant foundations which award more than billion to applicants. Two good resources for private grants are the Foundation Center and the Council on Foundations. In order to get the tax exempt status, the foundations have to distribute 5% of their assets value as grants as per local law.  As per the mandate of the Federal law in the United States, the government agencies and private foundations a minimum amount as grants to individuals and businesses.  Moreover, big corporations save a lot of money in taxes by giving grants to foundations.

Grants provide great support for start-ups and the companies wanting to develop new projects.   They are given as additional package along with the advice and support which is very important and vital for the business.  

As there are many grants that are available, choosing the right one will be time consuming.  However, the terms and conditions of the applications have to be studied thoroughly by the applicants so that they can find the companies with no fee basis that make the process easier to get the grants.   

New business owners as well as the existing business owners are eligible for private grants.   More often, the private grants are available for businesses that address the current challenges like environmental and social issues.  By submitting a more detailed report and business plans, there is a good chance of getting the private grants for the business.   The amount of grant required should also be very clearly mentioned in the application along with the other details accurately.   

The applications should be submitted to those foundations who can accept your business concept so that there is no hassle in getting the grants.  

For the business growth, the owners need money and the small business grants can help to sustain and move it to the next level.  Although the recipients need not have to repay the grant money, if they violate the restrictions mentioned in the grant agreement, then the money can be recaptured.

Small Business Grant Source:
Learn the application procedures, various funding sources for specific types of businesses and eligibility criteria for small business grants. You can find the most comprehensive information on availing of small business grants by visiting this online guide on grants here

Government Grants for Women

Apart from the Government, there are several foundations that liberally offer grants for several purposes. Visit this Grant Foundation Guide to know how to avail of free grants from private foundations. Also, check out the Education Grants Guide to find the best sources for all types of education grants.