Question: I am interested in starting my own business, and I understand that the Women's Bureau (WB) has grant money. How do I apply for a grant?

Answer: The Women's Bureau does not provide grants to start businesses. Our mission is to formulate standards and policies that promote the welfare of wage-earning women, improve their work conditions, increase their efficiency, and advance their opportunities for profitable employment. We provide information to women regarding issues that impact their lives as workers.

If you are interested in a loan to start your business, contact the Small Business Administration (SBA) at 1-800-UASK-SBA (1-800-827-5722). Generally, the SBA does not provide grants; however, its Office of Women's Business Ownership has a Women's Pre-Qualification Pilot Loan Program.

Also, you may want to contact your bank to see if it participates in the SBA Guaranty Loan Program.