I am often asked by customers if there are grants and loans available for their business- on many occasions these firms are in start up and pre revenue stage.
There is a general belief that there is ' free money ' out there - and people are trying to find it - I categorically believe there is no free money available - if there was, can you imagine ...?
However, there are some excllent programs , 2 in particular , that in our opinion are two of the best government programs for companies .
The Canadian government has allocated hundreds of millions of dollars into what is known as the CSBFL program - The government provides a lot of useful data on the program on its website . Information at the website covers off the program basics, how it works, who is eligible, etc.
While some of the info might seem overwhelming there is a lot of assistance available . For the purposes of this article we will share that the programme is available to all new or established businesses with revenues or projected revenues under 5 Million dollars .
Most people that are familiar with the program might not know that in the current 2009 world economic crist the government increased the amount of these loans to $350,000 and in some cases$ 500,000.00.
How can you qualify, and , most importantly , Do you qualify ?
In general if you are a private company , ( public companies do not qualify ) you are eligible . Customers need to determine what classes of assets can be financed .
The true power of the program is that the rates are in the 5% range currently, terms of re payment are 5-10 years, and most importantly to principals of the company , a full guarantee is not required!
Typically these programs are used by companies to acquire assets , improve their business, purchase or develop software, and in some cases buy real estate.
Do Canadian business owners know that the gov't can assist them in purchasing business real esate with limited guarantee and at great rates and terms -? We dont think so .
If business principals feel they are adequately prepare to source out this programs financing power we strongly recommend that they begin the process. Not everyone has the time, financial skills and accumen, and the ability or comfort to begin this short journey .
Those people should seek out the aid of a trusted advisor and business financing expert in order to maximize their participation in the program .
Lets get back to free money! Does it exist ? Again, not really, but would you like to get a cheque from the government for any process, research, or innovation you have developed . If so you want to maximize your participation in the Canadian government SR ED program . We will talk about that in an upcoming article | 
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