text: how do i go about starting my own business? is there any grants i can get? im in n.ireland.? im interested in clothing businesses but there is already a large industry with this....im not exactly minted and know there must be some sort of grants or loans a non home owner can get...i am however employed and pay taxes northern ireland provides what it calls smart grants for small businesses. here is a page listing how a small business entrepreneur can avail of these grants  http://www.investni.com/smart  starting a small business takes a lot of courage. but, as they say, courage does not pay the bills. to be successful – to stay in business – you need more than courage. you need a combination of hard work, skill, perseverance, and lots of luck.   some things you need to consider: - "how can i support my family while i build up by business?"  - "what are my abilities?"  - "is there a market for the product or service i have chosen?"  - "how long will it take this business to reach the financial goal i have?"   you may want to read the article "how to start a new business successfully" http://www.powerhomebiz.com/vol51/launch.htm , which lists six steps to launch a new business successfully:  1. provide a benefit. 2. determine the fit with your market. 3. right timing is everything 4. be ready to support your business 5. develop a blueprint for success 6. market, market, market  i recommend that you read the following books:  - what no one ever tells you about starting your own business : real life start-up advice from 101 successful entrepreneurs  - starting from scratch: how to start a business when you don't have money  - if you're clueless about starting your own business and want to know more  - on the move : how to succeed and survive as an entrepreneur  - how to make 1000 mistakes in business and still succeed