Did you know you could be leaving tens—or even hundreds—of thousands of dollars on the table every year? Most manufacturers don’t realize the incredible potential of grants to fund new projects, invest in equipment, and upskill their workforce.

In this episode of Buy the Numbers, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about manufacturing grants, with insights from Micki Vandeloo, a seasoned expert who has helped manufacturers secure over $185 million in funding.

Micki’s journey from 25 years in manufacturing to running her own grant-writing business is inspiring. In this episode, she shares how she went from securing $600,000 for her company to building a team dedicated to helping businesses unlock grant funding. 

Whether you're just starting your search or looking to maximize your opportunities, Micki outlines actionable steps and key tips to navigate the grant process. You’ll learn:

• How grants can revolutionize your business (and how Micki leveraged them to secure millions).
• The most common types of grants available to manufacturers, from training to equipment investments.
• Practical steps to get started, including where to find opportunities at the state, federal, and local levels.
• How to stack multiple grants to lower project costs and maximize impact.
• The importance of well-defined projects and detailed applications to increase your chances of success.

If you’ve ever wondered how to make grant funding work for your business, this is the episode you don’t want to miss. Tune in to discover how you can tap into grants to grow, innovate, and secure the future of your manufacturing business. Don’t let this money go unused.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• (2:02) From 25 years in manufacturing to grant-writing 
• (5:40) The impact grants can have on your business 
• (9:53) The basics of manufacturing grants 
• (17:18) Where can you get started? 
• (21:13) What’s available at the Federal level? 
• (24:53) How to start stacking grants 
• (27:51) Why you need a well-defined project 
• (29:06) Completing the grant application 
• (33:30) Fine print to keep in mind
• (35:45) Who’s a good fit for Lakeview Consulting?
• (37:19) Micki shares some success stories
• (38:43) The importance of building relationships
• (44:43) Don’t let this money go unused

Resources & People Mentioned

• Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance
• State Trade Expansion Program
• The Rural Energy for America Program

Connect with Micki Vandeloo

• Connect on LinkedIn
• Lakeview Consulting
• The Manufacturing Grants Database
• Sign up for Micki’s Newsletter

Connect With Buy the Numbers

• Follow on LinkedIn
• Connect with Mike Payne on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Buy the Numbers

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK