A Reader Asks…

I am in need of funding for business equipment and software to start my own business from home. I have seen commercials regarding government money being out there and available for all sorts of reasons like, business start up, buying a home, renovations, debt consolidations, etc. But, these commericals are advertised by people who want a fee for the information on these grants and loans. I have always figure that if they could find this information then I should be able to also. And, I have looked on and off for awhile now and can only find information if I pay a fee to someone else. Does anyone have any suggestions or has anyone actually received one of these loans and/or grants?