Small business owners learn how to get federal assistance

KSDK -- Small businesses seeking federal money got some of their questions answered today. 

U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill hosted an economic development and grant training workshop in St. Louis.
 
The event was open to businesses and non-profit organizations who want to apply for grants and loans.
 
Circle of Light in north St. Louis County provides a variety of services, including a food pantry and a support and recovery center.  It hopes to expand using federal stimulus dollars.
circle of light's director says one of his biggest concerns is getting past all the red tape.

"There's a lot of crime, when you get grants," said Circle of Light's Travis Mitchell. "People don't do the right thing. But a lot of people do the right things and a lot of people have their heart in what they're doing."

The workshop included representatives from state and federal agencies, including the small business administration, the environmental protection agency, and the department of housing and urban development.