In less than 20 minutes a week, we'll introduce you to an expert or business owner with deep experience in what they do. Grow you, grow your team, grow a small business. Welcome to the "Grow a Small Business" podcast with your host, Michael Denehey. In this episode, Michael interviews Madonna Melrose, director of Melrose International based in Melbourne, Australia . Key Takeaways for Small Business Owners: Building Connections: Madonna highlights the importance of engaging with local councils and industry bodies, even if initial grant applications aren't successful. Establishing a presence in the grant space increases visibility and credibility over time Learning Curve: Grant applications offer a deep dive into your business, highlighting areas that may need improvement or updating. It's a valuable exercise in self-assessment. Preparation is Key: Before applying for grants, ensure that your business strategy, marketing plan, and financial documents are aligned and up-to-date. Clarity about project objectives and alignment with business goals is crucial. Our hero crafts outstanding reviews following the experience of listening to our special guests. Are you the one we've been waiting for? Sustainability: Consider how receiving grant funding will impact and shape your business. Ensure that the amount requested is sustainable and aligns with the business's growth trajectory. Start Small: Beginning with smaller grants allows for gaining experience and refining the approach. Practice and persistence are key to success in the grant space. Clarity and Conciseness: When filling out grant applications, be clear, concise, and focused. Stick to relevant details that demonstrate how funding will benefit the business and stimulate the economy. One action small business owners can take: One action small business owners can take, as advised by Madonna Melrose, is to start small and engage with local councils and industry bodies. Even if initial grant applications aren't successful, establishing a presence in the grant space increases visibility and credibility over time, paving the way for future funding opportunities. Do you have 2 minutes every Friday? Sign up to the Weekly Leadership Email. It's free and we can help you to maximise your time. Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey. ? Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Don't just reach for the sky, ensure the number you're asking for is sustainable and doable for your business – Madonna Melrose Every single question in a grant application has a character limit, so cut the fluff and get straight to the point – Madonna Melrose Engage with local councils and industry bodies to increase your visibility and credibility in the grant space – Madonna Melrose