I decorate cakes (self-taught), do a lot of hand work, like crochet, knitting, as well as a host of other handwork (jewelry included), and intend to use my knowledge to make a business of my talents.  I am multi-talented and experienced in alterations as well.  I have had people ask if I could also include classes in my business plan.

I live in a rural area away from a big city where the bakeries/delis/coffee shops are as well as a decent thrift shop.  I plan to include an area for alterations and a gift shop where others will be able to include their homemade items to enable stay-at-home mothers to make some extra money, too.

I have been divorced for 22 years.  My ex-husband passed away in 2001, and I live alone, so have no one else to rely on but myself.  I really believe that this business would be successful - just need some help to get it started.

I am a 57-year-old woman that is partially unemployed.  I lost my full-time job in February and need to replace that income.  I am not old enough to retire and won't be able to retire until at least 65.

There is a dream I have had for many years to own my own business.    I am not getting any younger and believe that if I am ever going to accomplish this dream, I had better do something about it now.  I live in a rural area and feel that there is a need for the business I want to develop.  I would like to have a grant to build a steel building  and include living quarters with it in the back, to avoid extra finances for living quarters.  Because of my age, a business loan might not be feasible.

I will probably need to hire a couple of people to help me eventually as well.  I also may need a grant for living expenses while the business is getting started and off the ground.