How to apply for a government grant in 7 steps.

3 minute readUpdated October 13, 2026By the NorthAxis Capital team

Step 1: Pick one clear project

Grants pay for a clear job with a clear result. “Help us grow” is too vague. “Buy a new machine so we can make 30% more parts” is clear.

Write one or two sentences about:

• What you want to do
• Why you need to do it now
• What will be better when it’s done

Step 2: Find a program made for it

Match your project to the right kind of grant. Hurt by tariffs? Look at the tariff relief programs. Hiring? Look at wage programs. Selling abroad? Look at export programs.

Our funding programs list is a good place to start.

Step 3: Check the rules before you write

Read the program page from start to end. Look for:

• Who can apply. Size, sales, location and type of business.
• What it pays for. Some costs are allowed. Others are not.
• Your share. Many grants pay half. Can you pay the other half?
• The dates. When it closes, and when the work must be done.

Step 4: Gather your papers

Most grant programs ask for some or all of these:

• Your last two years of financial statements
• Recent business bank statements
• Your business number and registration papers
• Quotes for what you will buy
• Proof of need, like lost orders or higher costs. For tariffs, here’s what to collect.

Step 5: Write a simple, clear plan

Reviewers read a lot of applications. Make yours easy to say yes to.

• Use plain words. Short sentences beat fancy ones.
• Show the money. List each cost, the total, and how much you will pay.
• Show the result. Jobs kept, sales gained, costs cut. Use numbers.
• Match their goals. Use the program’s own words for what it wants to fund.

Step 6: Send it in on time

Check every question is answered and every file is attached. A missing page can slow you down for weeks. Then submit before the deadline. If the program closes when the money runs out, sooner is better.

Step 7: After you apply

Answer questions fast. Reviewers often email to ask for more details.

If you are approved, you sign an agreement. Read it closely. Then keep every receipt and report on time. That is how you get paid.

If you are turned down, ask why. Fix it, then apply again or try another program.

Mistakes that get good businesses turned down

• Spending money before approval. Many programs won’t pay for costs from before.
• Asking for things the program doesn’t pay for.
• Numbers that don’t match across forms.
• No proof of need.
• Missing the deadline.