I'm trying to locate some grant monies to start a small business ( either through the state of minnesota or the federal government ). Not really interested in a loan.

There is a lot of grant money out there to help people start a business, but it can be complicated. Look for a sponsor in the website, "fiscalsponsordirectory,org". Here you will find 501(c)3 foundations, and believe me a lot of grants you want to apply for will ask you to use one, and make sure your work and goals match there work and goals other wise they won't help you. Keep in mind that this could take 6-9 months or longer to get the check, but once established with the foundation you will have someone to work with you for a long time. Go to your State, County, Township, and City foundations. If your grant has anything to do with economic development, education, substance abuse, environment, etc... they have to work with you. The Fed. Government will not help for starting a business, they pass the money down to the States. Register with grants.gov and get your Duns number and then register with the CCR. Also look in the federal registar. This will tell you what Washington is doing, FOIA. Get the SBA loan first and then apply for the grants to help pay off the debt.