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About.com: Invention 101
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There are plenty of opportunities for inventors to get their projects funded and distributed, but there are a lot of scams out there as well. About.com's portal of invention information is a decent launching point for your search into legitimate opportunities.
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Entrepreneur.com
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Information on starting and growing a business.
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Export-Import Bank of the U.S.
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If you export your products or services oversees, then the U.S. Ex-Im Bank may be able to guarantee a working capital loan for you. Check out the "New and Small Business Center" for information on guarantees, export credit insurance, and Ex-Im Bank activity by state.
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SBA Disaster Loans
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An act of God need not be the final blow to your company. The U.S. Small Business Administration provides businesses with up to $1.5 million to repair or replace property such as ruined equipment, inventory, furniture, and fixtures, in the event of a disaster. Loans are generally low-interest (about 4%) and last as long as 30 years.
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Small Business Innovation and Research Grants
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If your startup aims to break new ground in technology, it may qualify for an SBIR grant. Offered by federal agencies such as NASA and the National Institutes of Health, SBIR grants provide seed money for small companies that want to develop prototypes of novel technological products.
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The HUBzone Program
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Historically Underutilized Business Zones, or HUBzones, give advantages to firms that are located in poor and/or rural counties and employ locals. Visit this site to determine if your business is in a HUBzone, review the regulations governing these incentives, and apply online.
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U.S. Small Business Administration Finance Guide
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The SBA financing site may seem daunting at first, but don't let that deter you from exploring this priceless lending reference guide—complete with research on funding patterns and online loan applications to expedite the approval process. The SBA sponsors diverse capitalization offerings, including microloans, bonds, and venture capital funding.
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