1-800-GRANT FRAUD
by M. Sue Pagay, M.S. on Oct 23, 2006 with 193 Comments
Dozens of agencies throughout the United States are operating as “Federal grant representatives” and are really scam artists, skilled at stealing your money.
The next time you get a card in the mail telling you that you’re “eligible” for a multi-thousand dollar federal grant, beware. Think twice before you call that 1-800 number. Even when the card reassures you that your “application is free”, don’t believe it. This has become a somewhat rampant scam by renegade “Federal grant representatives” to rake in a “service charge” of close to $400 per application, in some cases.
I found this to be the case of one such company which sent out cards from their base in Champlain, NY recently. I got one of these cards, and decided to try it out. The card lures the recipient with the promise of a Federal grant for education, home improvement, medical bills, etc. In fact, they guarantee a $5,000 grant. Okay, this sounds good so far. Maybe too good?
The application is “free over the phone”, but as you get caught up in the recorded conversation, where the “grant representative” obtains all sorts of financial information from the caller, you’ll find yourself getting charged nearly $350 for “service charges and handling fees.” Now, you have to ask yourself at this point … service charge for what? Handling what? Mailing the package to your home? Well, that must be one mighty heavy package!
They have a clever way of getting information out of their victims, too. First, they get your license and Social Security numbers saying that they need this information for “verification purposes”. They have also been known to ask their victims the account numbers of checking and savings accounts so that they can “deposit” the grant check into the account. But think about it… when they have those numbers available to them, they have access to those accounts for fraudulent purposes and can cause havoc with the balance.
Now, a $5,000 guarantee for a mere $350 sounds like a reasonable deal. But, is it really? When sanity sets in and you change your mind and you call to cancel the application, it’s amazing to witness the antics these “Federal grant representatives” play wrapped up with a degree of arrogance that is beyond belief. After being insulted and whacked around with their heated words, it becomes increasingly apparent that this is no real organization, but a conglomeration of scam artists with hooks in their nose to catch your wallet on the fly.
You will be abruptly told that cancellation is impossible. They flatly refuse to stop the process because it is “already in motion”. This is a dangerous position to be in. Not only do they have the account numbers of the financial institutions at that point, they also argue that if there are insufficient funds to support their charges in the account, they will also charge you a cancellation fee. All this, and you can expect to not even see their “grant” package until about 2 weeks AFTER your payment to them has cleared. So, you are getting nothing at this point for a total of $350 and there is no way to cancel out.
You may now need to contact the state attorney general’s office to place a formal complaint against them for fraud and change any accounts that they are now privy to. Making a formal complaint to the state’s Better Business Bureau is also advisable. It’s an inconvenience, to be sure, to change accounts and report the fraud that was set in motion, but it is essential to get back on track.
Don’t be disillusioned about grants in general, however. Not all agencies that deal in Federal grants are fraudulent. So, how can you tell the difference? There are some criteria to keep in mind when selecting an agency to work with:
- Any agency that claims to GUARANTEE a grant for a price should be avoided.
- Do not, under any circumstances, give out personal or financial information such as Social Security numbers or bank accounts of any kind.
- It is always wise to check with the Better Business Bureau in the operator’s home state to see if there are any complaints against them before proceeding.
- Be sure you understand the cancellation policy of the agency well in advance of giving any type of consent for proceeding with the application process.
- Be sure you know the full name and ID number of the individual “Federal grant representative” you are dealing with.
- It pays to do full research on the agency itself before making any type of commitment. Find out where the agency’s headquarters are located and obtain the full name, address, and telephone number of the customer service department before making any applications.
- Beware if the agency is not a U.S. company. Many such scams are originating from Canada, especially those located along the northern borders of the U.S.
- Don’t be sucked into a deal that sounds good. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. And the best way to avoid this is to never make a commitment over the phone. Know who you are dealing with. And, don’t get caught up into believing that if you invest a little money into the application process, you will be guaranteed a given result. That’s just plain nonsense!
While the company that I came across was operating out of Champlain, NY, there are dozens of such companies that act out their scams throughout the United States. Many of these companies are headquartered outside of the U.S.. And all of them are out for one thing … your money. Caveat emptor: Consumer, Beware!
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K.Lewis | Mar 4, 2008 | Reply
I received a call from a company by the name of Small Business Funding Company, Inc. They are Incorporated in Nevada 311 N. Pecos Rd #200 in Hendershon. Anyone know if they are ascam or not?
Linda | Mar 19, 2008 | Reply
I am researching Small Business Funding Company, Inc. for my sister. She just recently purchased a business and has been contacted by this company. I’ve read a bit and all the comments seem to be very recent and mostly searching for information. There have only been 2 or 3 comments from people that they received grants through this process. One of the claims the representative made was that they have been in business for 30 years (1977, I believe). When I checked the Nevada BBB, it states the origination date of the business is August 2007. I can’t really say for sure whether this business is for real, but I’m definitely recommending to my sister to stay away from it.
tp | May 5, 2008 | Reply
I was also contacted by SBFC of Nevada. The deal sounded great but we were skeptical. We actually flew to Henderson, Nevanda to meet with them. It all seemed legitimated. We met with several gentleman in a meeting room and we were believers and signed over the check for $6,300. We have not seen anything yet at that was six months ago. We have a hard time contacting them and when we do, they tell us that it takes time. We have received two updates since then telling us of the companies that they have sent the grant proposals to, but were promised to have seen money by now. We have seen nothing yet~
gak | May 5, 2008 | Reply
Go to http://800notes.com and put in the toll-free number for SBFC. There is some worthwhile info there.
Angel Guy | May 6, 2008 | Reply
Please leave a post if you have had success with this company. I had a lengthy discussion with them today and I heard a few scam bells ring. The postings I’ve found mostly complain about how they add fees to help a for-profit firm to create a non-profit entity. Well, I am non-profit already, but I’m concerned about paying money to a service that can so easily say, “It takes time. Be Patient.” Has anyone had a successful experience?
J. Warren | May 20, 2008 | Reply
I too have been contacted. Has anyone actually gotten a grant from the efforts of SBFC? Please let me know. They have a real building and you can hear people working in the background. Does anyone know for sure if this company is real or not?
dk | Jul 3, 2008 | Reply
Small Business Funding CO. INC. 311 Peco RD. Suite 200 Henderson, NV….I sign up with them in Aug 2007 for $2600. In Nov. 2007 was told that they could get me funding year after year if I sign up to be a non-profit foundation that would be $7400, so now it is 10,000.00. There are grants out there…I’m single women in business for 25 years…If anyone had a chance I would…
However, this company does nothing, I did my own business plan or presentation professional. They wanted 10,000. I have been to the office 3 times…Lots of people working, promising everybody, they can get a grant..If they were getting grants for people, why have they not went for a grant them self…
The do not answer calls or return them…The sent letters of inquiry out March 2008….that was 7 months…Miss using information, miss spell name, and incorrect about my company…. The say its a service..August is the deadline for a refund
You can go out and broker yourself for a grant, when you receive it then pay…not before.. I’m contacting all the foundations they sent letters out..
There is to much to say…beware…do your own.. its better than what I have seen in their letters…Go to http://www.fdncenter.org... Go any large company and put their and foundation…they have where you fill in information for a grant..They prefer online than a letter like SBFC is doing…I was told by one of their employee that they were going to make a lot of money…Writing this so other people are not taken advantage of..Like they did myself….However they have one month…
Robert Mikes | Jul 30, 2008 | Reply
Small Business Funding Co. I signed up with them in august of 07′ and this is my 4th research with the company, and Finally i got three great responses from the organizations the researchers did. The grant amounts totalled up to 174,000 dollars, now they are just in the grant writing portion of it, they said it could still be months till i see the money…… well see.
dk | Aug 9, 2008 | Reply
The 15th will be 1 year. Have not heard from the company..The said they were going to resubmit letter of inquiry. 4 weeks ago…1 YEAR..one set of inquiry…Thats what you get..So do not be look for any grant amount..I have 1 research. I do not know what I’m going to do…yet
Montford M | Sep 2, 2008 | Reply
Boy they make it sound good. I will not go ahead however. No success stories to date anywhere to be found on the internet. Today’s call: “we got a “no” from 27 foundations, your background check is impeccable however and so now we have “yes” from three foundations totalling $160,000.00. Come here to Henderson to close , we should see funds within 45 days. You will create jobs with the money so that’s a good thing you are doing for mankind. Just send us $2600 to get started” No, I too get the scam bells going off. Since 1977 ? I don’t think so.
By Reeves, E | Sep 25, 2008 | Reply
Has anyone heard of the Company Funds, Inc.,? They sound to good to be true. They want me wire them money and send a post date check to get started totaling 2995.00 and the balance of 3000.00 when we receive the grant. Which their saying could take up to 4mos. or more and funds would come from different source to totaling 325,000. I think this might be a scam.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Sep 25, 2008 | Reply
Reeves, E — if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. I would suggest getting the full name, address and phone number of the operator in it’s home state. Contact the Better Business Bureau in that state to investigate their legitimacy. Don’t sign anything until you have all the information up front (including cancellation terms). And, don’t send any money upfront until you are confident that this is NOT a scam. Good luck!
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Oct 7, 2008 | Reply
Scammed — I’m sorry that you had to go through this. I would suggest contacting the Attorney General in your state and try to file charges against this company.
The arguments these companies put forth up front ARE very convincing. They are such impressive actors that they should be nominated for the Oscars!
That “guarantee” of funding also seems to be a common thread among them — a schematic tool that each one seems to use to make it a more “marketable” idea to the unsuspecting victim. Afterall, that “guarantee” serves as a safety net that helps to make our initial investment seems justifiable. Doesn’t it? And, that’s where they are able to tangle us up into their web of deception.
Again, I would suggest contacting your state’s Attorney General and inquire if charges can be made against them. GOOD LUCK!
Older & Wiser | Oct 31, 2008 | Reply
This SBFC has contacted a good friend of mine. My friend is a good man and sincere. He is thinking seriously about going ahead with the initial $2600.00. However, if it sounds too good to be true it usually is. I have been investigating this company and cannot find a single reference from anyone stating that this company did anything for them other than relieve them of some of their money.
Additionally, I have written proposals for funding (for grants) and know others who have done the same. Nobody charges up front unless requested to write for a grant that you know darned good and well they are not going to get. Then you tell them you are charging up front because in your mind it is a waste of time and energy.
Rick Harrison | Nov 19, 2008 | Reply
See http://800notes.com/Phone.aspx/1-877-472-6814 for information from people who have signed up with them. That’s the phone number they used to contact me.
Melody Moon | Dec 4, 2008 | Reply
I have been approached by a grant company in Henderson NV also under the name Corporate Capital Team, Inc. They are asking and stating some the of same I am reading here. I checked Chamber of Commerce in Henderson NV and they are a member also no coplaints from BBB. Please if anyone has dealth with this company … I would appreciate more info
Shawn | Dec 31, 2008 | Reply
To everyone listed here. The Small Business Funding Company is a FRAUD. Do not do any business with this company. They come off nice but once they get your money that treat you like trash (they become hostile, angry, and will eventually refuse to speak with you or take your calls). I contacted the Nevada BBB prior to sending in my money and they stated that they did not have any claims against this company
jc | Jan 4, 2009 | Reply
I was also approached by a company called Corporate Capital Team, Inc. They were asking for a total of 6,000, $2400 up front and they said after we get the grant money we are to send the $3600. I was very reluctant, so I decided to do some research on them. They are a member of the BBB but not accredited.
mary lou | Jan 13, 2009 | Reply
got a call from Corporate Capital Team. Same story as preceeding ones. Has anyone received money from them?1-13-09
mark mac | Jan 18, 2009 | Reply
to be or not to be
corporate capital team contacted me and said all the same the stories that i have reading about small business funding even the same $ amounts , too many similar warning signs , o whats that ? is that a scam bell i hear? thanks for this !! i’ll just stick with my gut …if it sounds to good to be true , it probably is
John S. | Jan 19, 2009 | Reply
I have been contacted by a company; Corporate Capital team, Inc. 2920 N. Green Valley Parkway Building 8, Suite 821, Henderson, Nevada 89014. Seems their story is like the ones youve published, they want $6000 $2400 to get started then the balance when $50,000 or more is paid out, their ad indicates that most good applacants get some grant money in as little as 30 days, and that they have been there since 1997, she called back today and said to hold off on our investment as some fairly large companies have dried up on grant money until the forseeable future, Maybe she figured out she was ripping peaple off or that they were able to get grants but not now.
bummer | Jan 19, 2009 | Reply
doesn’t it suck when your a struggling small business owner suffering through a bad time and along comes a predator like corporate capital team or sbfc etc.. to scam whatever we have left in these horrible business times. I was feeling really good about my 250k coming my way until I started my research and realized what a bummer. These stories make me sick. good luck to all you honest hard working people. I do not believe you should have to pay, aleast up front, for free grant money
Kebler4444 | Jan 22, 2009 | Reply
I’m really bummed to hear these comments. Our small business has moved forward with Corporate Capital Team. My husband and I even flew out there to meet with them to see if they are ligit. My husband felt like they were are we moved forward. They told us the process takes 3-6 months and we are currently in our 2nd month. They are doing what they told us they were going to do (draw up letters and send them to companies). We have seen evidence of that, however, still no money has come our way. Still a little too soon to say, but I’ll let you guys all know what the turn out is.
Possible user of Corp Cap | Jan 22, 2009 | Reply
Hi everyone,
Please keep us updated on your thoughts of Corporate Capital Team. It sounds like they are a scam and they are in the middle of “courting” us………Not sure what to do…..
kennyg | Jan 30, 2009 | Reply
Is Coorporate capital a rip off, or do they just send out info trying to get you a grant with no guarrentee of any money in the form of a grant, other than the $2400 you have to put out? Sounds Like Vegas to me 50/50
amandac | Feb 2, 2009 | Reply
Kebler4444,
Hubby and I are trying to figure out if corporate capital is really legit, or not. Would you be willing to talk with me over the phone about your situation?? Corporate capital is not willing to give out comapny references, they say, because all of their “clients” have signed confidentiality agreements,and we would REALLY like to speak with someone about them.
Thanks
Kebler4444 | Feb 2, 2009 | Reply
Sure amandac, I wouldn’t mind talking with you.
We don’t have any new news yet. I would like to add though that when my husband and I visited their office I was really uncomfortable. There were a few offices, but it looked like they had only been there for 2 days. There was a cheap little printer in the reception area and everyone had a desk and computers, but that was it. No paperwork anywhere. No pictures on the walls. Nothing. The receptionist had about a 5 foot desk with no papers… weird if you ask me. I asked how long they had been there and they said that they just moved into those offices 8 months ago. I really don’t think so.
I also found it funny that on their website they have a picture of their building and when we showed up it was the same building, but did NOT have their name on it as their picture shows.
I’ll let you know if any $$ comes our way.
ljof tenn | Feb 3, 2009 | Reply
I recently was contacted by Corporate Capital Team. The lady that was my contact told me straight up, this is not 100% guaranteed to go thru. She also told me that they had a 92% success rate. The usually mentioned by all above front money was spoken of,(2500.00), to be paid up front and balance paid(3900.00?)when grant was granted.
She did explain it could take up to several months to get. She was very nice on the phone and very pleasant to ask questions to. She did tell me that i had to meet some qualifications to get approved. She is supposed to call back today and discuss some more info on me. We’ll see.
sal424 | Feb 3, 2009 | Reply
go to Grants.gov it is a federal agency that assists in government grants. As far as I can tell the government does not hand out money to people just because they need it. You need to be in some type of teaching/training or assisting field. Good luck, I was also approached by corporate capital team. A company that can not give you a list of satisfied customers is a little worrisome.
distressed | Feb 3, 2009 | Reply
My husband and I have also paid money to Corporate Capital team, back in 10/08 for 2 businesses. We haven’t received any funds yet – paperwork was incorrect, but later corrected – we do get phone calls back, but no new listings to verify so that they can send out letters for grants. Is anyone out there that received ANY grants from them for the work that they say they do for each company?
distressed | Feb 3, 2009 | Reply
to amandac and Kebler4444,
Would you be willing to talk with me about Corporate capital team and your experience? How can I get ahold of either of you?
Relieved | Feb 4, 2009 | Reply
I am so fortunate to come across all this info on Corporate Capitol Team Inc. Because of this site our company didn’t fork out money to them.Thank you all. File complaints please with The state of Nevada. There don’t seem to be any yet.
Shelly Neff | Feb 4, 2009 | Reply
Hi, well these jerks have been schmoozing my 77 year old father in law too. We own and operate a 100% certified organic beef ranch in norhern Wyoming and they called his house and told him the same song and dance.. Oh you should have seen his eyes glaze over at the promise of money to fulfil his dreams. All they wanted was a deposit of around $2500 them more later. I called the BBB in wyoming and they didn’t have anything so icalled Idaho. They did. I too found that they could not answer my questions and i found it very strange they did not want to US mail any thing at all it all had to be faxed or fed exed… Fedral mail fraud maybe. Anyway we recieved a shady contract hat was not even signed by them and when i said i wanted it notorized by them then they began back peddling. Also we can’t get a mailing address at all only a physical address that who knows what the heck it is. My advice is “If they call you run, and if you see they there business ends in a .com run most i have dealt with either end in .gov or .org. Please be very wise people because these guys are scammers… I talked to The district attorny today so we’ll see what the GOOD OL’ BOYS SOCIETY OF WYOMING HAVE TO SAY ABOUT THESE JERKS.”
notdoingit | Feb 6, 2009 | Reply
one of the reps has been calling me from coorporatecapitalteam everyday since he told me I was one of the lucky seven that got approved for a them to work on getting me a grant but have to put down $2400 first. He has been calling me everyday sometimes two to three times a day asking me if I can send them the eft from my checking account to get started. These are warning signs to close a deal that doesn’t have to produce any outcome for me, because they can say we are only providing a service and get away with this. The truth is they probally may get a few people grants but they don’t have to even do this, majority of people are left without. My rep says he has done this for 10 years but the company has only had a business lic in NV since mid 2008 no prior names before.
notdoingit | Feb 6, 2009 | Reply
one of the reps has been calling me from coorporatecapitalteam everyday since he told me I was one of the lucky seven that got approved for a them to work on getting me a grant but have to put down $2400 first. He has been calling me everyday sometimes two to three times a day asking me if I can send them the eft from my checking account to get started. These are warning signs to close a deal that doesn’t have to produce any outcome for me, because they can say we are only providing a service and get away with this. The truth is they probally may get a few people grants but they don’t have to even do this, majority of people are left without. My rep says he has done this for 10 years but the company has only had a business lic in NV since mid 2008 no prior names before.
deb in NC | Feb 8, 2009 | Reply
I’m so glad I read this information on Corporate Capital. These guys have been calling me giving me the same spill. I had him fax me the contract they want you to sign. It was pretty plain and simple. We were on the verge of moving forward until I read this. Thanks for saving my tail…
Kendra | Feb 9, 2009 | Reply
My experience was quite different than what you guys are talking about. I was funded from Corporate Capital Team. It took me over 6 months to get the 1st 2 checks. I was told I could get over $200k, and I have received a little over $60k thus far. I’m not sure if I’ll get the full $200k, but they have done everything they have promissed up to this point. Sorry about the bad experiences that some of you have had.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Feb 10, 2009 | Reply
Kendra — It’s very true that not all grant representatives are untrustworthy. But, it is true that many are and that caution must necessarily be the rule of thumb when applying for a grant through a company that you know little about. Researching and knowing who you are dealing with is the key to success.
amandac | Feb 10, 2009 | Reply
Kendra – would you be willing to talk me about your experience with CCT? We still have not given them any money as of yet, and there just seems to be a LOT of conflicting information out there about them.
Thanks
Daniel | Feb 10, 2009 | Reply
I would be very interested in talking with you, Kendra. I too am unsure based on conflicting information.
Thanks
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Feb 11, 2009 | Reply
AmandaC, Daniel, et. al. — It is wise to get the names, addesses, and contact information of companies that have actually received grants through efforts of these agencies before proceeding. Then, contact these companies for a one-on-one reference from them.
It’s never wise to rely on just verbal statements, but to check out the particulars especially if there is a significant up-front cost involved. If these operators can think of themselves as “federal grant agents,” then you can (and should) think of yourself as a private investigator to check out their credentials against all odds before plucking down your hard-earned money with only the hope for success in finding that successful grant.
And, be sure to read the fine print in any contract before you sign on the dotted line!
Learning everything you can about the company you are dealing with by doing your homework first and checking out the agency’s reputation and making sure that they are licensed to operate in the particular state that you are in is the first step in becoming an informed consumer. BEST OF LUCK TO EVERYONE!!!
not upfront | Feb 11, 2009 | Reply
The Company has only been around since late july 2008 and if kendra got her money 6 months ago as she claims why is she looking at this site, and another thing corporate capital team has only been giving out grants since december of last year, six months ago would have put her in sept of 08. Kendra is a fake, and so is ccp
john p | Feb 11, 2009 | Reply
Go to grants.gov and you can research the grants yourself, on other sites there are foundations but most if not all of these grants are for research, or new inventions, or nonprofit companies. have not seen any for business expansion, or start up, other then medical research. be carefull with grant sites most ask you to pay money up to 30 to 50 dollars, there are some on there for only 2 dollars for the information on what grants are open and available. So when Corporate capital says they have 10 foundation to fund your expansion, I like to know where there finding these companies, for profit business, nonreseach
Jcw | Feb 11, 2009 | Reply
I have been dealing with corporate capital. Actually after a great deal of checking up on them I spoke with someone at cct who said they just moved there in the summer from nebraska. They really did incorporate in 1997 under the current name and with the same principle Ryan Williams but in nebraska not Nevada. I ran a unDEr and Bradstreet credit and back ground report for both locations. Not much in the way of credit but maybe they didnt need credit. Other than the general feeling of what seems too good to be true… So far there are no red flags but no green flags. One week ago I risked the 2400.00 just to find out what the scam is. May be foolish but I hold out hope that there are foundations out there who have to give away grant money and hopefully to offer folks like us oportunity.
Hopefully waiting, but pressing on with my dreams as if it isn\’t coming. Ga
smt | Feb 12, 2009 | Reply
I believe Kendra is one of the people from corporate capital trying to cover their collective a****. They have 6 corporations registered between July and the end of January 09 with literally no capital to $75 in capital in each of them. If they’re going to truly get YOU capital, why have they not got any for themselves?? Here are the names of the other entities –
CREATIVE PLANNING, INC, HOME RUN MARKETING, INC, MAKENA FOUNDATION OF SOUTHERN NEVADA, INC, RYNO INVESTMENTS, INC, TSUNAMI MARKETING, INC.
Also note that the “principal” for Corporate Capital is NOT Ryan Williams – it is Cody Christensen. Ryan Williams is principal for a couple of the others. Do your research people. 6 corporations with NO capital trying to sell YOU on funding?? Hello??? Why would you even have to ask a question. RUN!
john p | Feb 12, 2009 | Reply
They only incorporated last July 2008 NOT in 1997 that was another company that went out of business. The company has no capital themselves. Their trying to make capitol off you. CCT is getting wise to this site and Kendra was a plant from CCT. If you want to give away money namely $2400 for free give it to me, I can use it. I take your $2400 and spend it on my own business, just like corporate capital team.
Waiting to exhale | Feb 12, 2009 | Reply
I have been watching this thread and for what it’s worth, my sister-in-law applied for a grant with CCT back several months ago and she has yet to see any grant monies. From what I understand, they keep telling her next month, next month. I personally don’t think there will be any money forthcomming. I also believe as the above poster said that Kendra is from CCT.
I believe anybody that applies for a grant through a company like this should do their homework.
Ev | Feb 13, 2009 | Reply
I have also been contacted by CCT and have checked with my SCORE counselor and my accountant. My SCORE counselor said that although businesses do get grants, it is ususally for new technology or processes.
I found this site, http://www.grants.gov. I believe it is really a governement site intended to match people with potential grantors. I will pursue the grant funding option but on my own. Although like most of you I could not find any complaints online about CCT I also think it sounds too good to be true.
Thank you everyone for your comments. They have helped me to decide what to do.
David | Feb 13, 2009 | Reply
Kebler4444,
My non-profit organization is just about to sign with the corporate capital team. Would you be willing to answer a few of my questions about them?
IRA | Feb 15, 2009 | Reply
I have also been contacted by CCT and will be watching this sight for more info
I would like to hear from some more people who have recieved grants
not just one.
no way | Feb 16, 2009 | Reply
I spoke with Dana from Corporate Capital team and was told that i would be able to be able to get funding in about 90 days. Sounds fishy to me….does anyone have a positive experience with them
amandac | Feb 16, 2009 | Reply
Okay, first, grants.gov is for FEDERAL grants, NOT private sector grants. These are 2 very different types of grants…do not be confused!! CCT offer private sector grants, not federal grants. When I asked our “rep” for references, he stated that all of the customers sign non-disclosure agreements which forbids them from talking to others (like us).
no way | Feb 16, 2009 | Reply
I called CCT back and talked to someone else, Paul, i think…and he too said that i can be funded in as little as 90 days.
Is there any reason to believe this?
btw…sure looks like Amanda works for CCT, nice try
george | Feb 16, 2009 | Reply
There are other websites that have a money back guarrentee, and send thru the mail and use creditcards, things that CCT do not take, due to mail fraud and creditcard refunding your money, some as low as $59.00 for the whole kit to apply to the foundations they give you, and the federal grants as well, don’t give your money to CCT do it yourself, or give me your $2400.00
BEWARE | Feb 16, 2009 | Reply
CCT IS WRITING COMMENTS ON THIS SITE TO CONFUSE YOU, YOU WON’T GET ANY MONEY FROM THEM
RED LINE ALERT | Feb 17, 2009 | Reply
Looks like the BBB has issued a Red Line Alert for CCT – http://www.montanachamber.com/index.aspx/Who_We_Are/Misc_News/BBB_Alert
I smell fraud…
poolguy | Feb 18, 2009 | Reply
I just got of the phone with CCT they didn’t say anything about federal grants but that they were from private foundation. Since my sister got a start up grant from The Melon Foundation, but I’m a guy and they are only interested in females and minorities; horray for the white guy, but I checked with the BBB of southern Nevada they had a B- with one resolved complaint. They say fools and their money well if I can get the services performed then it’s a risk of business.
Rudy Baker | Feb 19, 2009 | Reply
The testimonies on their web site do not actually say that they received money.. Most of the questions were regarding customer service. I know as a fact that two of those testimonies, the customer has not received any grants and they have been waiting since before July of last year
burping | Feb 19, 2009 | Reply
Just got solicited by company called companygrants.com out of neveda same area as CCT they want $3000. up front as a retainer yea right. What a scam, any company at of NV is shady in this business, and of course he says they been in business for 8 years and again no history on internet
MRC | Feb 19, 2009 | Reply
We too have been in contact with Aaron at CCT, same story as the most of the rest of you, pay $2500 up front than the remaining $3500 at funding. However, the longer I have taken to do due diligence, he has gotten rather impatient with me, pushing me to decide right now. Just sign the contract and fax it back to me, is what he says. He calls almost everyday. Another thing I’ve noticed is that on the phone he sounds very hollow and there is absolutely no background noice, that you would typically hear in an office building with this many supposed employees. I have not given them any money yet and do not plan too, thanks to our local SCORE office and the Small Business Development Center at a local University. Both agencies advised us that this is a fraud. Run, they told us!
amandac | Feb 19, 2009 | Reply
Hey “No Way”,
Do your research on grants,and you’ll find that I’m correct. The only way that you are going to get federal grant money is for technology research or as a not for profit,…you can check out Deborah Kluge’s website http://www.proposalwriter.com/
for the information (which is what I read about, and you can also go and read grants.gov for the particulars.)
As a note, we will NOT be going with CCT…I guess the Lord was protecting us from ourselves!
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Feb 19, 2009 | Reply
Whether it be a federal or a private grant, the agent with whom you deal with should be thoroughly researched. And, each word in the contract should be thoroughly scrutinized.
Again, not all funding agents walk “sideways” — but, many do. And, it is up to the individual seeking the grant to do their homework before putting down any money upfront. Caveat emptor!
Any cancellation policies should be thoroughly understood upfront and in writing. And, no personal information should be divulged, especially over the phone (e.g., SS numbers, bank accounts, etc). If possible, meet in person to discuss the possibilities of a grant to check out for yourselves who you are dealing with, where they are located, and if their offices of operation look legit.
Any “agent” who grows arrogant simply because you ask question and will not sign on the dotted line until you have all your facts straight, should be thoroughly avoided.
I wish you all the best of luck in your funding efforts!
skeptic | Feb 20, 2009 | Reply
I too have recently gotten in the loop with CCT, though we have not yet signed. Did a WhoIs search on their domain name after reading the posts above, and interstingly, it too was not registered to the current registrant until 4 Jun 2008.
I have worked in the web industry for years. It is next to impossible to keep 11 years of history from the net. having an 11 year old company with no digital paper trail besides a couple SOS filings is just too fishy for me. We’ll hold on to our $2400 until someone shows me better evidence to the contrary.
where's the proof | Feb 24, 2009 | Reply
To M. Sue Paqay, M.S.
Do you make any profit off from this site?
If not why are the green tags embedded in the site that directs you to “for profit companies”, many associated with grant writing services.
Could this be a conflict of interest or are you just scaring people away from companies that have good BBB and Chamber of Commerce reports by using unsubstantiated blogs to “YOUR” tagged companies?
I say follow the money!
You are less trust worthy than the businesses you create negative blogs on.
You create an unsubstantiated blog and sit back and let fear create a frenzie.
Kebler4444 | Feb 24, 2009 | Reply
Hi everyone,
Sorry I haven’t been checking in lately. Unsurprisingly we still haven not received any money yet. We do hear from time to time that it is because of the recession and there just isn’t as much money being granted.
I would love to talk to whoever wants to talk to me, but frankly, I just don’t know how to do it without the whole world getting either your or my email address. If you figure out how, let me know.
I’ll try to keep checking back more frequently.
Thanks for all the recent research. For those of you who did find dirt the rest of us do appreciate it.
Rudy Baker | Feb 25, 2009 | Reply
LA B.B.B.–Needy Non-Profits: Beware of Grant Finding Trap
http://www.la.bbb.org/GIReport.aspx?NewsID=175
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Feb 25, 2009 | Reply
To: Where’s The Proof
I go by my real name and I am a journalist by profession. I do not hide behind contrived names. That’s what it means to be honest.
As far as “causing a frenzy” … it is not I who is causing the frenzy by simply saying that no one should be handing anyone any money upfront when they do not know what they are getting up front and in writing. That’s simple common sense. Yet, these companies (and, are you one of them????) are working as a scam to connect with people’s money and walk away. That has been confirmed by the New York State Attorney General’s Office as per my interview with them at the time the company tried to scam me.
Your fear of my caveat emptor seems mighty suspicious. What is so wrong about saying: “be careful and do your research before you ‘invest.’” What would be YOUR suggestion — hand over their hardearned money to a stranger that tells them what they want to hear and don’t worry about checking out the source?
Given your attitude, where’s the proof, I would be wondering about YOUR underlying motives. Good day!
M. Sue Pagay,M.S. | Feb 25, 2009 | Reply
To: What’s The Proof
I want to address your question about the Tagged banners on the site that bring the readers to specific grant sites … I HAVE NOT CONTROL OVER THE ADVERTISERS NOR THE TAGGED GREEN LINKS IN THIS ARTICLE.
The Publisher has sole control over these things and I believe they get money to run their site based on advertisers just like print journals get money from advertisers. Writers on this site do not have any say in the matter. I understand your question, and I believe that I would have questioned that myself if I had read an article that connects to different private sites — good question, and it shows that you were thinking like an investigator. BUT, no … I am not in any way in control of the type of advertisers or how much advertising money comes in on the site. I am simply a writer. That’s my job. And, I am a freelance writer who has no ties to anyone or anything. But, I do understand and appreciate the thought process in your question … it’s just not accurate. That’s all. Thanks for pointing this question out, however!
Clint | Feb 27, 2009 | Reply
Thank you for the information. I got several automated phone solicitations from this firm and always hung up. Last week I got another and waited until the end when it said “To stop receiving solicitations press [some number]“. I pressed the number, and nonetheless got the phone call again this week. This time I left my name & phone # to investigate if Uncle Sam was really giving away money in these times. As pointed out above and explained to me by the rep who called, it is supposedly corporations who want to cut back their taxes.
The rep called me back today and pressured me to make a decision quickly. As pointed out above, he quoted $2400 down and $3600 later, and promised me over $40k, maybe more, if I contract with them.
It all sounded too good to be true. I am staying the hell away from these people. Thanks again for publishing this.
Jimmy | Mar 4, 2009 | Reply
we were offered over 330K as we qual’d for 8 of the 15 foundations, from female biz owner, to paying self , to advertising for others, for hiring people, for inventory etc and so forth. Paul Hadley did tell me that we can do this ourselves, or, as stated above , pay $2400 to have them do it and pay remaining 3600 on back end once first grant money was received by whomever…
Now that I found this site – and I see people who got grants are not responding back (Plants from company?) – the only thing is nobody has reported them? Whats up with that? Good bad or indifferent?
I agree | Mar 5, 2009 | Reply
I agree that the ones posting here on behalf of their CCT grants must be “plants” because why would someone who was successful be looking under at a grant fraud website.
just a thought…. i posted earlier and check back to see how many others have been taken by CCT
RedSox | Mar 5, 2009 | Reply
So we got a call from Corporate Capital Team in Nevada. We realized it was a scam right away…so we wanted to see how far we can take it….. So this is how it went after he send us a contract via fax:
Me: ” Tim, can you provide us with 5 references of business you have worked with and have been funded?”
Tim Thompson (CCT)”We can’t do that sir. Have you hear of Patriots Act, we can’t disclose this information, we can’t provide you with someone elses information.”
Me: “What do you mean, no references.”
Tim Thompson ( CCT): ” Well I can have 2 people call you they will only discolose their first name. not company name. We can’t do that due to the Patriot act..”
Me:”What does Patriot Act has to do with references? Are you a terrorist organization? Which article of Patriots Act you are referring to?”
Tim Thompson (CCT) “I have it hear, I can send you a link. But Sir, I would rather have my supervisor call you.”
Half an hour later..a call from “Supervisor” continued like this…
Supervisor CCT : “Sir, I can’t break the law? Under Patriots Act we cannot disclose this information”
Me:”Can you please tell me what Article of Patriots Act reffers to this?”
Supervisor CCT : “I am not a lawyer!!! I don’t know” – he got angry now.
Me: ” Well how do I know you are not a scam?”
Supervisor CCT : ” We have been in business for 12 years, you don’t think goverment will let us operate as a scam”
Me:”Well if you have been doing this for so long and you don’t know which law and where is it stated…then how can you prove you not a scam?”
Supervisor CCT : “I am not going to break the law!!!!!” – yells. If you are driving on a highway and it says Speed Limit 65, where in law it is stated?”
Me: “…State Department of Motor Vehicle, State Law, Drivers Manual….”
Supervisor CCT – hang up on us!
Although it may have been comic for me…I then realized how many people may have been scammed by this company with Photoshoped picture of their building and other odities of this organization… this is how I found this website.
STAY AWAY FROM THEM.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Mar 5, 2009 | Reply
Redsox — I can’t say for sure if CCT itself is legit or not, but I can say that your conversation with them does sound very much like my contact with several other similar agencies that were operating out of Upstate New York as scams.
Their arrogance and anger in answering simple questions rings a bell. Professionals generally do not get so explosive when being questioned — they have nothing to hide. But, when someone has something fishy going on, and you question them, turing angry and arrogant is a typical reaction when they have something to hide. Afterall, by reacting so explosively, they believe that they can leave YOU feeling “guilty” for asking such probing questions. That takes the focus off of them, doesn’t it?
I think your assessment of their phone conversation is right on the money. Although it does not “prove” that they are not legit, it DOES put up some red flags that this company should definitely be researched further before trusting your hardearned dollars to them, and before putting your dreams in their hands. GOOD WORK! And, thank you for reporting how your conversation with them went. Looks like you opened up a can of worms!!!
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Mar 19, 2009 | Reply
Elsie — This sounds so very typical of the way these frauds react … while no questions are being asked, they are so nice; and once questions are posed, they become edgy and arrogant.
Thank you for including your experience. It was very helpful, and it sure depicts a good reason to be skeptical of this organization!
Kebler4444 | Mar 20, 2009 | Reply
Alright… I have an update.
We were contacted recently by CCT and they are wanting us to shell out more money. Apparently they have a few companies that are wanting to fund us, but they need to see a Business Plan first. Interesting that no one said anything about this before. They want us to pay more money for them to put together a Business Plan. Heck no! They aren’t getting any more money from us! You should have seen the letter that they wrote that cost $2,600. 1 page that was unprofessionally put together. I’m going to put together my own Business Plan. It’s about time I updated ours anyway. Thought you all would like an update.
Oh and Elsie to answer your question, there were several offices with several people “working” there. When I was there several months ago they were taking over the top floor of the building.
to LMILLER | Mar 26, 2009 | Reply
It is not the grant company’s responsibility to vett the information that you give them. The foundations will do that. So you think you are being sneaky but you are being an idiot. If you would have went forward with fraudulant information you would have lost your $2,400. The reason being is they would have provided the grant writing services and the foundations would have disqualified you through their research on your company and it’ officers.
The grant writing company only goes by the information provided by you. You are just shooting yourself in the foot if you LIE!
If you give them your wife’s name — The assumption is that she is associated with the business.
It was YOU that LIED!
If you LIE you will be CAUGHT!
amused | Mar 30, 2009 | Reply
Someone call the waaaaaahmbulance for LMiller. Now there’s someone who’s too steamed to be credible. Just a good bit of advice miller… if you’re scared of “losing” $2400 you should probably go seek another line of work. It’s obvious you’re barely staying in business. I don’t know of any grant funding agencies that would even consider awarding a grant to a business that can barely keep its head above water. Maybe you should go stand in line behind the automakers and just ask for a handout.
By the way, it’s common knowledge that if you were to put your wife on your business it would greatly increase your odds to receive loans, grants, gov’t contracts, etc.. The advantages of certified MWBE’s are not exactly a big secret.
Still waiting to hear what your business credentials are sue pagay. trying to throw it back at me without an answer just chips away at your already questionable credibility. I’m not the one who started an article trying to sound like a knowledgable business professional. you were. I’m just yet another anonymous overly opinionated fool like everyone else here.
Quid pro quo Clarice.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Mar 30, 2009 | Reply
Amused — I think it’s time for you to move on. Obviously, you are one of the frauds. You really need to move on now. You are wasting everyone’s time here.
My credentials have been presented and anyone with any intelligence should be able to figure it out; but they need to know how to read first.
Now, morphed from “disgusting” to “amused” but too cowardly to spell out her real name … it’ been nice, but waste no more of our time and shed yourself somewhere else. Good day!
Angela | Apr 7, 2009 | Reply
I too was thinking about writing a Check to CCT, until i did some research. The story is similar to many of the calls you folks received. Pay something like 2,400 now the remainder when you get your grant money. One of my friends, accountant, said smoke him out, tell him that you’ll do it but you’ll pay him 10,000 dollars once I recieve the grant money. I’ll see what he says then:) heheh
Miss Information | Apr 7, 2009 | Reply
Troy, exactly what line of work are you in? because your “research” (as you call it) stinks. It took me about 5 seconds to find info about MBEs receiving “affirmative action” when it comes to receiving grants…
http://www.epa.gov/ogd/grants/mbe.htm
Of course if you’d rather get your information from anonymous blog posters with a herd mentality than from actual federal grantmaking agencies maybe that’s what’s best for you.
Angela, Angela, Angela, when your oh so witty accountant friend refers you to a stockbroker who let’s you pay nothing up front but will take a bigger commission on the backend please do let me know. I can just tell you’re another savvy “researcher” who’s come to roost amongst the other hens.
Informed | Apr 7, 2009 | Reply
Please see this resource for federal spending. Grants are given out to non-profit and for-profit applicant’s.
http://www.fedspending.org/faads/index.php?reptype=a
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 8, 2009 | Reply
Miss Information — perhaps the reincarnation of “disgusted” and “amused” to yet another morph (”informed”???) — you sure get rather arrogant and touchy about other people on the post, don’t you?
If you had nothing to gain from anyone NOT spending their hard-earned dollars without seriously questioning the “agency” they are dealling with, then why in creation would you be as twitchy as you are?
You certainly have a right to speak your mind, no matter how mindless it may be. BUT, other more intelligent people, HAVE THE RIGHT TO QUESTION WHO THEY ARE DEALING WITH BEFORE SENDING A STRANGER A CHECK FOR A LARGE SUM OF MONEY WITHOUT CHECKING OUT THEIR CREDENTIALS FIRST. Now, if you think that giving out that advice is a “herd mentality” then you sure ought to know… because you are a classic example of why the phrase “caveat emptor” was coined!
William, D.D.S. | Apr 9, 2009 | Reply
As a Doctor of Dentistry, I always do my research, not only on my patients, but also my business dealings. My representative at Corporate Capital Team has always been honest and straight-forward. I have read all of the rants on this blog. What occured to me, is most of the above people chose not to venture down this road. No wonder they are upset….They have no vision about how to grow there business! I would be upset also, if every venture I touched…failed. I have received over $26,000 for my practice. Thank you Corporate Capital Team…you may have saved it.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 9, 2009 | Reply
William, DDS — That is interesting. I have no knowledge of CCT, itself. This blog has somehow gotten carried away with one particular agency (CCT).
What this blog is on, really, is the statement that even if CCT may be honest and forthright, MANY such agencies are NOT. Specifically, as mentioned in the blog, the one that I received an “invitation” from was not. I cotacted the NY State Attorney General’s Office to confirm. The agency also managed to obtain personal information about my banking accounts and ALL those accounts had to be CHANGED to keep them from the SCAM that they were putting forth.
It is CLEARLY stated in the blog that NOT ALL AGENCIES ARE FRAUDS. MANY OF THEM ARE … And it is the RESPONSIBILITY of the grant seeker to CHECK UP on the reputation of the agency they are dealing with.
If you felt ok to hand over money to a stranger in the hope of “saving” your practice then that’s what you felt comfortable loosing should it have failed. BUT, it would not be SMART even for a dentist to invest without doing proper research … and THAT IS WHAT THIS BLOG IS SAYING … hello??? DO ANY OF YOU DISAGREE WITH THAT? IF SO … WHY???
P.S. William … When you write: “They have no vision about how to grow there [sic] businss…” The spelling of “there” should be “their.” Back to school you go … LOL:-)
Ridiculous | Apr 14, 2009 | Reply
IF these Grant Companies are so sure you get a grant then why don’t they take it on lien as us doctors do, If you don’t get the Grant you don’t owe, it is up to them to do the best job possible to get you a grant. That is the way the srescue shipping industry works as well for the insurance companies, Ship sinks you don’t get paid.
Anyone who says they received money on here is clearly lying, why would you even look at this site if you were paid.
Anyone one who will give $2400-to $6000 to a stranger in promises that they will do their best in helping him get a grant, is crazy, they don’t do it in the medical industry with many years of schooling.
The telemarketing is a way to get more suckers
Ya Right | Apr 14, 2009 | Reply
Hey for $26000 did you buy a gold toilet becuse you are full of crap or what bozo
Dr. Nooooo! | Apr 15, 2009 | Reply
So, “doctor”… what you’re saying essentially is that if you don’t cure your patients they don’t have to pay your bill?
Telemarketing is a highly cost-effective way to do business on a national scale. Wake up and join the 21st century bub.
Companies and nonprofits regularly hire staff grant writers, who can’t always disclose previous work they’ve done, for salaries often approaching six figures. These writers receive regular salary payments totalling thousands of dollars, for often several months before they even begin writing actual proposals. $2k-6k is a drop in the bucket compared to what risk one is exposed to by hiring a freelancer or staff writer.
The lack of both experience and sophistication by the majority of parties posting comments here is not entirely surprising though. If you’re seeking savvy business advice amidst a sea of anonymously posted drivel in the unmoderated comments section of an article on a site driven by unprofessional content submissions, you probably couldn’t actually meet the usage and reporting requirements most grantmaking bodies impose.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 15, 2009 | Reply
Dr. Nooooo!
Apparently, you are included in this “anonymously posted drivel” as I do not see your name or your credentials posted. Your arrogance, however, comes across clearly… and it is anything but “professional.”
I do believe that you cannot understand the gist of this article, however. You really need to go back and read it more slowly so you can grasp the full meaning. Then, let’s hear what you have to say about whether or not someone who is solicited by an unknown stranger on the street should hand over their hard-earned dollars for a pie-in-the-sky promise without thinking twice (or three times) and checking out their source to be sure that fraud is not factored into the equation. Now, can you understand that without further clarification? Anyone who cannot understand that simple principle is perhaps beyond hope.
Connivers who try to wheel and deal people’s money away with the promise of big bucks without showing some proof up front are the only “unprofessional” drivelers here. Furthermore, they deserve nothing better than a jail cell. Now, go and think about that one, ok?
a question to Sue Paqay | Apr 17, 2009 | Reply
You say you are a freelance writer. I know successful writers get advances for anticipated money making publishings. Have you ever received an advance for your writings? If the answer is no, I can assume that you are not as good as you state you are.
Just thinking out loud.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 18, 2009 | Reply
Dear A Question to Sue Pagay — Actually, yes. I have received a sizable amount of an advance by AVON BOOKS to ghostwrite a book for a physician on the topic of Cardiovascular Health. And, I don’t think that my quality as a freelance writer is what this topic is all about. Again, you cannot read. And, you continue to waste our time here. But,it is so kind of you to ask. And, now, I would kindly appreciate your sticking to the topic at hand, if you can decipher exactly what that is.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 20, 2009 | Reply
I think you are pathological. Please speak with a psychiatrist and spare me your mental problems. Now, this is the final words I have for you: Get Lost. I do not intend to waste any more time acknowledging your idiocy.
You may or may not take the advice given here in this article. That is your choice. If you want to hand over money to a stranger (someone stranger than you may be difficult to find, however), be my guest.
Your stupidity is going beyond what I care to acknowledge. And at this point I bid you farewell.
Hello Sunshine! | Apr 21, 2009 | Reply
Let no one ever question your consistency Miss Pagay. I expected you to resort to nothing more than ad hominem attacks and you certainly didn’t disappoint. What crackerjack box communications degree program doesn’t require even the most basic debating skills?
Oh, and please deary, when calling someone “pathological” it is common practice to follow the adjective with the label being modified. For example, “pathological liar” or “pathological jealousy”. Any writer worth his or her salt would know that.
No Piggy Sue, I don’t believe I am going anywhere or stopping any time soon. I think I like it here. I mean, where else can someone have so much influence over others while maintaining anonymity and risking nothing themself?
I like knowing you soil your mumu a little every time you read one of my posts. I also believe that you don’t have the willpower to stay away and not continue responding, unless of course you are ceding to defeat.
OH SUZY! | Apr 21, 2009 | Reply
You are so busted Sue Paqay!!! I am now starting to read some of your writings. Radical and beyond the fringe in every way.
You have lost all credibility with the few who believed your ranting garbage. I urge others to follow up on her writings.
Wacko, radical, activist etc…..
Oh ya, and check out the tags associated on each page her writings appear. There is her MOTIVE for the garbage she spews.
You are pathetic! Why don’t you offer us up all of your writings so we can go there and make a judgement of whether you are worth listening to.
You hide your agendas behind your “concern for others” while trying to steer people down your path of beliefs. It’s “her way or the highway”.
Good riddens Suzy!
OH SUZY | Apr 21, 2009 | Reply
Their arrogance and anger in answering simple questions rings a bell. Professionals generally do not get so explosive when being questioned — they have nothing to hide. But, when someone has something fishy going on, and you question them, turing angry and arrogant is a typical reaction when they have something to hide. Afterall, by reacting so explosively, they believe that they can leave YOU feeling “guilty” for asking such probing questions. That takes the focus off of them, doesn’t it?
see response #92 and then see response #73 as to who the author of the above paragragh is.
What say you SUZY?
Bummed | Apr 21, 2009 | Reply
I have been reading the comments here and it sure sounds like there is someone who is desperately working for these grant places who wants to discredit everything said here. But, I have had similar problems with these so called grant writing places and there is no doubt lots of underhanded things that go on in their business. I wouldn’t put it past one of them to be an agent of deception here.
If they believe so heavily that these places don’t operate in underhanded ways, then why do they keep coming onto this site?
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 21, 2009 | Reply
Bummed — I think you are probably right, but everyone has a right to an opinion. And, I may not agree with this person’s opinion, but she has a right to express it. That is the beauty of the First Amendment.
But, I agree that she (or he, but it sounds more like a she) is probably a “plant” from one of these agencies and that she is using this as a ploy to drive attention away from the focal point of GRANT FRAUD. That is just about what I would expect them to do.
And, it has been suspected several times over the course of this blog that there have been a couple of “plants.” Their attitude becomes very obvious as you look how they respond to various people’s input — they are invasive, arrogant, and try like the dickens to set the attention on a different line of focus.
I appreciate your reading the comments here, however. And good luck on any further grant seeking that you may be doing.
For Dr noooo | Apr 22, 2009 | Reply
#87
Hey nut case most doctors know what they can cure and what they can’t an if you don’t go back to school.
Grant coampanies are a repulican attempt to steel money from working class people and CCT is a another nevada rip off company they will do nothing but take your money.
Funny They did not charge the Henderson Chamber of Commerce for applying for their grant, why don’t they work on leins?
P.S. Dentist are wana bies Doctors
Muggsys | Apr 23, 2009 | Reply
Kebler4444… Ty for the info… I think ill pass on cct inc…
Kebler4444 | Apr 23, 2009 | Reply
This use to be a helpful tool for a business person like me. Please drop the name calling and quit bashing each other. Let’s just stick to the facts, so that maybe others might be able to learn from this site.
I know this blog is not specifically dedicated to CCT, but they are the company that I’ve been dealing with, so they are the ones I’m going to talk about. It’s been almost 5 months now and we have not receive a single check from them. William DDS, how long did it take you to get funded? When did you go through the process?
Muggsys | Apr 25, 2009 | Reply
I have mike fm cct contacting me saying his wife was granted $75,000… i emailed him to have his wife concent to forward me the paper work that cct did to produce a $75,000 grant and proof she received it… at this time iam waiting on a reply….
hopefull | Apr 27, 2009 | Reply
Has anyone received any grant money from corporate capital team?
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 28, 2009 | Reply
Hopeful — please see the comments — although I have not had any contact with cct (corporate capital team), others here have apparently had some difficulties with them. CCT’s activities and/or attitudes have given people ample reason to quesstion their motives.
Certainly, more research is needed to determine their legitimacy. They may very well be legit, but their attitude seems to suggest otherwise. Check out some of the comments here from business people who have had dealings with them and you will see what I mean.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 28, 2009 | Reply
Muggsys — Please keep us posted.
Muggsys | Apr 28, 2009 | Reply
This is the last email i received fm cct…
The best credibility we can provide you with is the fact that our BBB record says zero complaints and we have been in business since 1997 when this company started in Nebraska. If we were not doing the work for people their would be complaints all over the internet about our company. Sorry Mike I dont think this is for you! You should have done your research before we went through the qualifying process, this way we wouldnt have wasted each others time. I will give you till the end of the week to do your research and then we will release the funds to someone else. No hard feelings Mike, I understand you cant decide on something you dont believe in. Good luck with your resteraunt, I know it will be a great one.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Apr 28, 2009 | Reply
Muggsys: Based on an article written by the BBB of LOS ANGELES, CCT actually DOES have a complaint that is worthy of note. According to the California BBB’s article, which can be located at the following URL:
http://www.la.bbb.org/GIReport.aspx?NewsID=175
they are worthy of being in question. Let me quote their article below, which is taken in full from the above mentioned web site, that shows WHY these types of grant seeking agencies should be checked out THOROUGHLY before handing them your money. Following is the California BBB’s article quoted in its entirety:
” Needy Non-Profits: Beware the Grant-Finding Trap
02/05/2009
As the economy’s downward spiral continues, more and more individuals, businesses, and industries are finding themselves in financial trouble. In the nonprofit segment, even churches are facing financial famine as their congregations have to cut back on giving. In such a climate, might an offer of a grant, likely nonrepayable, seem like manna from heaven?
At least one small local church received an unsolicited telephone call from a representative of Corporate Capital Team, Inc. (CCT), headquartered in Henderson, Nevada, offering to research grant money sources and write a grant proposal for them. Their need, for parking lot paving at an estimated cost of $100,000, resulted in what CCT reported back as 10 hits in its eligibility search, with five of those awarding grants for purposes such as theirs: handicapped parking and safety needs.
CCT sent them a contract that required $2,400 in advance and an additional $3,600 “when a grant is awarded . . .” Though impressed by their friendliness and no-pressure offer, this church checked with the Better Business Bureau and decided not to sign.
Why would we caution you about a company that wants to find free money for you in difficult times, that has a B- rating with the Nevada Better Business Bureau (based primarily on its relatively brief existence in that state), and that has no complaints on file with the Bureau?
There are several reasons:
Although the company, it says, has been in business since 1997 and moved from Nebraska to Nevada a year or so ago, we find no information about its previous existence in Nebraska.
And despite the fact that the company makes no promise of acceptance and funding, we have no assurance that anyone has ever received either. Clients’ testimonials on the company’s website all respond to the same three questions, one of which asks if they were happy with the amount they were “eligible for,” not if they were happy with the amount they had received. (All were well satisfied.) Even though the Better Business Bureau does not accept testimonials as evidence of a satisfactory transaction, we wonder why the company wouldn’t be broadcasting testimonials claiming satisfaction with the grant received, if, indeed, any grants have been received.
We discount the company’s statements, such as that they’re located in a “very prestigious part of Henderson,” a “five-minute limo ride to the airport,” and that their Nevada location allows them to interact with large investors and grantors and is “one of the reason [sic] we have a very broad range of sources for funding projects,” all of which have nothing to do with their services but serve only as glossy packaging to impress the reader with their success.
We believe that a legitimate business would require submission of financial statements along with their application. That CTT’s contract doesn’t mention this at all sends up one of the biggest red flags. Without these statements, how could they determine whether an applicant is eligible?
Even telemarketing their services raises questions. If free money is available, wouldn’t it seem more likely that businesses and organizations who want money would be seeking them out?
Despite our concerns about this company, no one has complained to us. Why might that be?
It could be that the company makes it clear that getting a grant is not guaranteed. You’re not likely to complain when you’re aware of that risk at the outset.
It could also be that they make it clear that you could be in for a wait of six months or more. Then, if you call to find out what’s happening, it’s easy for them to string you along because it’s the grant source that’s causing the delay. And if, eventually, you really get irritated with the wait, they can always tell you the foundation folded for some reason.
Our concerns may be unfounded, yet they arise because of our experience with similar offers in a variety of types of businesses. If we are on target, though, churches and others who most need grant money may end up without it, without the money they paid to try to get it, and likely without a prayer of getting their money back. Use caution.
###
About BBB of the Southland, Inc.
The Better Business Bureau of the Southland, Inc. is a non-profit organization serving Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties in California. The organization was formed in 1951 to promote truth in advertising and business self-regulation. The Bureau assists the public in resolving complaints against businesses and it uses that complaint experience to rate the reliability of businesses. In addition, the Bureau operates an alternate dispute resolution program which administers arbitration proceedings at no cost to consumers. BBB of the Southland also hosts the TrustLink Community, which provides a review forum for consumers and online storefronts for businesses. Please visit http://www.la.bbb.org for more information about the BBB of the Southland.”
Certainly gives us food for thought!
Kebler4444 | Apr 29, 2009 | Reply
Wait, what? You need to get off your soapbox. M. Sue Pagay has no reason to believe CCT has actually funded anyone. I myself have seen no money from you… I mean them and I personally know a few of your other clients who have yet to see a dime from CCT. I thought M. Sue Pagay had very helpful information in her last post. Information that can help others figure out if a grant company is worth while or not. That is after all what this blog is about.
"THE TRUTH SHALL SET YOU FREE" | Apr 29, 2009 | Reply
Kebler444 is right. M. Sue Pagay has not once reverted to name calling, cussing or accusing anybody of anything. For the most part, we are all adults and quite capable of forming our own opinions. If we chose to share the same opinion of Ms. Pagay, so be it. If anybody chooses to do business with CCT, so be that.
Muggsys | Apr 29, 2009 | Reply
the problem i have with cct is…. they raise a lot more questions than they answer… i am finding it hard to believe they would provide me with a grant when all is said and done…
openminded | May 1, 2009 | Reply
As for comments, on why would you be looking in this blog if every thing is good. You have to do your homework and part of the homework IS looking at the negative as well as the positive. So even if I were to get a grant, I do like to know what is being said regarding my dealings with others. It gives me a sense of assurance (or lack of)that my decisions are what I believe is correct or not.
openminded | May 1, 2009 | Reply
As for comments, on why would you be looking in this blog if every thing is good. You have to do your homework and part of the homework IS looking at the negative as well as the positive. So even if I were to get a grant, I do like to know what is being said regarding my dealings with others. It gives me a sense of assurance (or lack of)that my decisions are what I believe is correct or not.
By the way, I also have been in contact with cct and am doing my research. Decisions are made everyday and if all were good you would only have to make one or two and your plate would runeth over. A plate is big in size (like an idea), it also holds alot of solids (like inventory, etc.)but lacks in liquidity volume(capitol). Get my drift
bcc | May 1, 2009 | Reply
Tom Abbott and his crew should be locked up,that all i got to say
xxjrt@yahoo.com | May 1, 2009 | Reply
This blog advertises other grant writing services. If I were scammed, I would probably call someone that could do something about it and not spend my time blogging.
I would just love to see your faces when a competitor posts a blog about one of your companies. You do realize that anyone can post anything about you true or not, and since it’s the internet, it’s there forever.
Someone that would rather take advice from a blog then a legitimate agency probably won’t be in business too much longer anyway.
Before doing business with any company, we recommend you check with The BBB, The Attorney General, The Federal Trade commission, or whatever legitimate agency you are most comfortable with.
Office of the Attorney General
Nevada Attorney General: Catherine Cortez Masto
http://ag.state.nv.us/
Carson City Office
100 N. Carson St.
Carson City, NV 89701
775.684.1100
Nevada Consumer Affairs Division
http://www.fyiconsumer.org/
In Southern Nevada:
1850 E. Sahara Avenue, Suite 101
Las Vegas, Nevada 89104
Phone: 702-486-7355
Nevada BBB report
http://southernnevada.bbb.org/bbb_rated_acc_rpt.asp?bbbid=77766&tr=rated&lg=B%2D&ex=15
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | May 2, 2009 | Reply
Ms. Masta — THAT is EXACTLY what this blog is saying. Did you read it? It STRICTLY says to CHECK FIRST … is there a problem with that advice???
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | May 2, 2009 | Reply
Ms. Masta — why is the Nevada Attorney General reading a blog if she does not think too highly of the credibility of blogs to begin with? Isn’t that a poor way to be spending professional time, then?
Of course people should check with “credible” sources; however, blogs are the best way for people to reach people and to warn them about possible scams and to express the types of problems they themselves faced with scams. THAT is how THIS blog came about in the first place. Read it, and if you are really an Attorney General, you SHOULD be able to understand it. Good day.
Muggsys | May 8, 2009 | Reply
A wk has passed and ive heard nothing back fm cct… they seem to work within the realm of the law…. so this is how they remain under the radar… hooking you for $2400 then trying to fish more money saying they have a party that is looking at yr application but needs earnest money to proceed… still with no guarantee you will receive a grant…
curious | May 12, 2009 | Reply
You seem so wise Muggsys — How many grants have you received?
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | May 12, 2009 | Reply
curious — that is not really any of your concern, is it really? Stick to the topic at hand, please.
Muggsys | May 12, 2009 | Reply
I went thru a process like this 7 years ago… you get worked like kebler4444… they keep fishing for more money with a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow… i ended up putting down $15,000 in all and never got a cent back… this company was also fm nevada…. you would spend more in lawyer fees fighting a company in another state then it would be worth …. beware
Deep | May 13, 2009 | Reply
Amazing that there are so many suckers willing to part with their money. And that there are so many people totally lacking in ethics that are willing to take their money.
What pisses me off about this company is their relentless robocalls.
The FTC says they can be fined up to $11,000 per call if you are on the do not call list. But they don’t say how to initiate prosecution.
Fathergod | May 19, 2009 | Reply
Well hears the bottom line \” I Worked There\” Yep you heard right. As for the question at hand …It seems to be a bit complicated. Is it a scam YES. Is it legal Yes. Ultimately you are Supposed to be buying a \”service\”, however the silver tonged sales rep. makes you feel like it was a slam dunk. It\’s a script they read, hence the five minute waffleing about \”do you know where grant money comes from?\” If all the employees had 2 years of college between then I\’d be in awh. By the way thats not a crack on them I\’m serious. They tell you that they are going to run your co. through a data base then call you back and let you know what they find. Yeah !!! LOL not gonna happen . They make up a number that they think will get your attention (not what you asked for usually lower) they use words like locked in and give you strict time frames to create urgency. You pay 2600, the rep gets 800 the rest goes to cct. Your letter is written by 18 year olds, research ….a couple of single moms. They have only been in business for about 9mo now..give or take a month. In Nebraska they did something else but kept the cct giving them their longevity (10 years in business). NO GRANT WRITER IN SIGHT!!! NO FUNDING SEEN . They hustle you. BUT IT\’S Legal. the contract doesn\’t promise funding only the pursuit of it-which they do, just very very very poorly. I saw many letters that were returned to sender by the foundations. Like I Said! IT IS A SCAM !!! But it \”is\” legal. Anyone who wants more info. let me know I\’d be glad to help.
Your daddy | May 19, 2009 | Reply
“Anyone who wants more info. let me know I\’d be glad to help.”
ok “Fathergod”, time to see if you have the stones to step up to the plate or if you’re just another anonymous idiot hiding behind your monitor…
1) You say you worked “there”, so you should have no problem posting your real name in the interest of maintaining credibility.
2) If you worked “there”, what exactly did you do differently than everyone else you are claiming perpetuated the “scam”? if nothing, than you are just as guilty and once again your credibility goes right out the window.
3) What exactly is your issue with single mothers?
4) What exactly is your issue with 18 year olds? the average high school student would have no problem running circles around you in regards to math, english, writing skills, familiarity with computers and software (the sort of which is necessary to perform real research).
5) Exactly what foundations have you seen mail “returned to sender” from and for exactly what reason was said mail returned?
6) Did you get fired for lack of production or just misrepping (here’s the part where you try to bs us into believing you had some kind of moral crisis)?
Fathergod | May 19, 2009 | Reply
Ahh… a battle of whits with a unarmed man… lol. I’m assuming you work there.
1. My real name is of no concern, apparently neither is yours.Unless I tried to sell anyone here a grant service, then I don’t need a name. Never said what i did there.The point here is to educate others whom might be interested in this Legal scam about the pitfall they might come across.
2. Perpetuated is not the grammar you were looking for in that context- but what the hell “big words sound better right?” lol. The scam is the fact that if less than 5% of all persons whom apply for grants actually receive them, do you and your cohorts believe that a room of kids is capable , or competent enough to fulfill the promises your phone reps make. What did I do differently ? Nothing ….nowhere in my post did I say that I was sorry for what I did , nor have I asked for any forgiveness. I was just saying take it from someone who knows.
3.4. No prob w fellow single mothers or 18 yr olds, simply pointing out that once again were not working with the cream of the crop here. Office full of craigslist responses. Not college undergrads. And for the record “no” the average 18 could not run circles around me in any of the subjects mentioned above. Just look how hard a time your having. Also your response should have been to deny the existence of said 18 year olds.
5. As for the foundations, well we both know that’s a loaded question, and we also know what I’m speaking of . Don’t insult my intelligence.
6. Didn’t get fired, and I have no qualms, or moral crisis. I have said many times that the business is legal, thus we all are not in prison. But your business does misrepresents it’s intentions, and abilities. I get it- making money is the American dream, but off the backs of those who don’t understand the system? Or is it because they didn’t hang up the phone when the automated dialer called? Pimping small business owners may make you money , but at what cost? Your integrity. Would you want your children doing this? Would you sign up your own family, friends, loved ones? Would you, or could you take their money. So I don’t care about you either way , keep on keepin on. This post is for those who are looking to keep what is theirs, and not make risky investments. I think that’s fair enough.
Lastly, do you think about this stuff before you write it??? lol If I was fired for lack of production, doesn’t that mean I wouldn’t have hustled anyone, hence the lack of moral crisis. and would give me the right to write this post….. Anyhow like I said I was not fired, and your are assuming I was on the phones ( bad call). All that doesn’t matter you say I’m wrong prove it.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | May 19, 2009 | Reply
Your daddy — Please keep on track. You are floundering and the subject is going all over the place. EVERYONE has a right to speak their mind on this site. But, it should be kept on topic. Name calling and antagonistic remarks are fruitless and only seem to indicate that the proverbial can of worms have been opened and someone is very unhappy about it.
We are here to share experiences, not to act like a bunch of juvenile delinquents. We are all professional people and should be acting accordingly. Thank you.
funny | May 19, 2009 | Reply
You guys are pretty funny, I look at this blog all the tyme an it’s finallly gettin good! I use to work there too thats how I found this thing, but I bever posted cause I hate typin,, but I will getin on this. The really funny thing is that I DID GET FIRED FOR LACK OF PRODUCTION!!! but it’s cause I sucked. as for the scam thing , weel I sat by myself pretty far fram the rest so I can’t say what they said to the poeple. The guy that helpd me did really believe that it was legit, I can see how some mite be scetchy but its kinda hard to measure what we did. I never saw or heard anyone speaking faulsehoods. Now thw 18 yearold thing is funny …It’s family ! Who wouldn’t hire family people..Plus I know some pretty stupid 30 year olds, nevertheless I ncan see what you mean god. But that shouldn’t really matter. They do have writters that do what they promise, I wanted to be one of them so I know they were there. There was one on the other sid e of the door where I sat,and I heard her working w clients. All in all they were good peeps , I still see most of them every day, never here them braggin about who they con’d . don’t know if that helps but I wasn’t there long enough to real vouch either was. They gave me job it didn’t work out no hard feelings maybe next time. well that’s my piece pool time~!! Kirk out.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | May 19, 2009 | Reply
Funny — Thanks for your input.
THANK YOU | May 20, 2009 | Reply
Thank you all for your interesting thoughts….we too were stalked by Corporate Capital Team, Please take us off your list!!!! and everyone else too, same m.o. as read above, they’ve locked us in @ 300K because we are a non-profit who has grant history with an educational program…..all for the low cost of $3000.00 down……no thanks, we’re doing just fine writing our own grants and taking our sweet time……Thank you all and please do your home work, seek the funding sources on your own, if your doing it, you deserve it…..nothing comes for free, if CCT calls give em’ the piss off…….
Too Good To Be True | May 22, 2009 | Reply
This is the email I just received after talking with a rep at CCT for 20 minutes . . . I wanna believe . . . but if they can’t take the $2,600 from the grant money I can’t do it.
“As discussed, you have been qualified to receive Grant Foundation Funds. Congratulations!
Therefore, I have been authorized to forward you your grant services agreement in the amount of $279,000 and check authorization form. (attached)
Should you wish to proceed with the process, it is important to comply with the time constraints and deadlines as set forth by the foundations which we will be submitting your funding request too.
This agreement for services will expire Wednesday, May the 27th, 2009 at 5pm pacific coast time.
Have a great weekend and will touch base with you on Tuesday. We look forward to working with you! Thank you and be blessed.
To your Success.”
"Too Good To Be True | May 22, 2009 | Reply
Here is the contract:
“Our Promise:
Corporate Capital Team, Inc hereby promises to aid and/or assist the client in obtaining a minimum of $50,000.00usd in grant money to be used to benefit the clients project and/or the local community. Corporate Capital Team, Inc provides the following services to client: (1) Foundation Research (2) Letter Writing (3) Grant Application Preparation & Packaging (4) Grant Writing (5) Consulting to direct the client towards the best avenue to reach their specific grant funding goals.
Terms And Conditions:
(1) Length of service agreement: This service agreement shall commence on , ending six (6) months after the original signed date on this agreement. The client shall have the option if the minimum funding amount is less than $50,000.00usd within the six (6) months, to renew the service agreement for an additional six (6) months for NO ADDITIONAL FEE. The client must submit written notice to Corporate Capital Team, Inc within Thirty (30) days of the date of expiration.
(2) Cost of Services Rendered: The client understands that the total cost of the service fee of $6,000 is a one (1)-time service fee. The client understands that Corporate Capital Team, Inc requires a retainer of $2,400.00 to perform said services listed herein. By the client affixing their name to this service agreement, the client authorizes Corporate Capital Team, Inc to apply the retainer of $2,400.00 to the balance of their service agreement. The retainer amount is non-refundable due to the nature of services provided and time committed to the clients project by Corporate Capital Team, Inc. The remaining balance of $3600.00 will be due when a grant is awarded to the client. The grant award total for the project must be greater than $50,000.00usd for the remaining balance to be due.
(3) Limitations on Representation: Corporate Capital Team, Inc, acts as a conduit and/or facilitator to assist the client in seeking grant funding from foundations. Corporate Capital Team, Inc does not provide the grant money directly to the client. The foundation involved in the project has complete power over funding amount, usage of the money, and time frame of funding. The client is retaining Corporate Capital Team, Inc for its relationship with foundations that fund grants, resources to complete the project, intellectual property, funding strategies, project packaging, and submitting the project correctly to the proper foundations.
Fathergod | May 22, 2009 | Reply
I always loved the deadline part…lol Totally made up. Yes there are time constraints set by said foundations, but on Wednesday the 27th? Everyone is qualified, as long as you answer the question on you “annual gross income” and “average monthly account balance”.
Fathergod | May 22, 2009 | Reply
Also, for the record , no one can take any monies from a grant for services rendered. The grant would be issued to you in you businesses name.
Jack Schafer | Jun 24, 2009 | Reply
These folk change their name every 6 month to a year.. as soon as these type of sites start to hurt their business.
Aything that sounds too good to be true – is.
With as much information as is availale on he Internet “instantly” today, anyone who goes ahead and sends this type of company any money, without asking more questions or checking online SHOULD lose their money !
Go ahead and burn it up, or even better send it to me… I will #1. Appreciate getting it from you, and #2. Thank you for your kindess… then I’ll turn around and send half of it back to you, so we can both say we got free money in the mail from a complete stanger, for doing nothing at all !
Tiredofscammers | Jun 25, 2009 | Reply
Our company was approached by Bob Butler from CCT several times in the last month. When asked for a list of refernces to verify credibility he cited the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (which covers bank mergers NOT privacy laws/issues). I’ll post his response below in its entirety with hopes of alerting readers to what I believe is a scam. (The response itself lacks clarity and is laced with errors. Enough to make me close the door on this company completely.) Thanks to all who posted earlier ~ it was tremendously helpful.
Thank you for keeping us in the loop. It sounds like you are performing your due diligence, we we ask and require our future clients to do so. I would like to address your issues as follows:
#1 – The B- rating at the BBB is solely based on us not being a paid member, and also we have been in the Nevada BBB for less than 2 years.We don’t feel comfortable that we have to buy a rating, and the clients that we do business with, that also are not accredited members feel the same. We moved here from Omaha, Nebraska where we started the company in 1997. The true measure of a Business Strength and integrity comes from the BBB, (which we only have 2 complaints, we said we very good at what we do, we are the #1 facilitator of Private Foundation Grants, not that we are perfect.. (ha-ha) also the State attorney General and secretary of the state. Which we give all prospective clients access to those entities.
#2 – The only negative stuff on us on the web is from bloggers. Bloggers are disgruntled employees and I am embarrassed to say the competition. We actually have 2 lawsuits against bloggers for defamation of character and liable Making a decision based on bloggers is like letting teenagers in a chat room regulate how and who who your firm decides to do business with. If we can’t get past that, than I thank you, but lets part friends.
#3 – We are expected to, and we enjoy and work hard at operating our business in the most ethical manor possible.If you have a business that deals with finances as we do, it is important to operate within the regulations and stringent guidelines that must be adhered to by any firm in our position. When asked for client references, we must uphold the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act: other wise known as the Financial Privacy Rule. That is one of the biggest oxy-morons I have ever ran into to. Our prospective clients want to, and need to know that we are ethical, we are not schemers, that we obey the laws and yet to provide client lists, would do just that.
On the other hand, back in the early days we actually built our business with referrals. When it gets to the point that your office as a client of ours starts receiving 100 to 200 calls a week from curious grant shoppers, would you really want us to give your name and numbers out?
Please let me know if I can answer any more questions or concerns.
To your success,
Bob Bowers
Grant Coordinator
Corporate Capital Team
888-216-9445 ext 253
702-280-3219 Cell
.
Jack Killer | Jun 26, 2009 | Reply
Jack. You are a retard. Please keep your 1/4 of a brain back in GA where it belongs. If you were intelligent enough to help your own business keep it’s doors open, then you would know that these sites are nothing more than blog posts, and you truly should focus on keeping your business from closing. If you have a better alterative, then please pursue it. Grant Funding is very much alive and you can view the 100,000 private and charitable foundations at foundationcenter.org . You will see that there are over $500 Billion out there for small dwindling buisnesses about to close there doors such as yourself. If you are too cheap to pay the money, then move on. The A.G. has given CCT his blessing personally since they are getting people funded. Please stick to drinking Bush Light and and hunting since you are too stupid to even keep your own business alive. Obviously, the BBB tells the real truth. If these 123,985,095,287 blogs are real business owners that haven’t gotten funded, the BBB would have their complaints listed as well. Please stick to screing your sister, because your evidently too cheap to help yourself.
M. Sue Pagay, MS | Jun 27, 2009 | Reply
Jack Killer — Keep the comments professional, please. Everyone has a right to make a statement, but it should be professional … and name calling does not sound intelligent in the least.
If you wish to promote your viewpoint, that is fine. But, others have just as much right to have an opinion as you do … and they have as much right to express that opinion. And the topic at hand here to be discussed is “grant Fraud” NOT Jack Killer’s opinion of WHO IS A “RETARD.” Please refrain from useless bickering. THANK YOU!
Jack Killer | Jun 27, 2009 | Reply
M. Sue Pagay,
You are the biggest idiot of them all. You waste you time making a bloggers post for people who won\’t spend the money to help themselves. For the record, have you actually been to any of these offices to see if people are truly getting funded, or do you enjoy making a site that is nothing more than bathroom wall writing? This is a joke. How can you be the \”Expert\” if you haven\’t been to any of these company\’s to check the validity and reliability of the work that that is being done. Obviously these companies are still in business and the A.G.\’s and and The BBB etc. have all done their homework as well.
M. Sue Pagay, MS | Jun 28, 2009 | Reply
Jack Killer — I think to find the “biggest idiot of them all” — the only thing you need to do is to look in a mirror. Let’s just leave it at that. OK?
If you are suggesting that a person NOT check out their “funding agents” that’s just absurd. And the BBB is the one who had their doubts about this particular agency (see the previous posts).
As a postscript, I’d like to add that I am getting a bit fed up with the name-calling that goes on here. INTELLIGENT PEOPLE CAN DISAGREE WITHOUT BEING DISAGREEABLE. But, Jack, that seems to be beyond you and and few others here (YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE).
Let’s just say that if you would like to hand over YOUR money to a stranger on the street without further adieu, go for it. I, for one, would rather seek out information about that stranger before I hand over MY hard earned dollar on a whim and a promise. Good luck!
Kebler4444 | Jul 2, 2009 | Reply
Hi guys. Just thought I would give you all an update. Still no money. What a surprise!
muggsys | Jul 7, 2009 | Reply
life’s little lessons Kebler4444…. best wishes
Looking before I leap | Jul 8, 2009 | Reply
Do you know if CCT is also called Captial Investment Services and is associated with “Helping Hearts and Hands”? They ask for a similar amount of money. They have a similar contract and are saying similar things about maintaining Confidentiality, so they can’t give a reference. Is there any tangible way to find out if they are legit?
Linda | Jul 11, 2009 | Reply
Hello,
I’m investigating about Grants Money: http://grantsmoney.com and http://www.incomepeer.com/kit whether it represents really the Canadian government for grants or fraudulent institution.
Can you help please with any information about it?
Thank you in advance.
Paul Hodge | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
Yes they are indeed a SCAM! Run forest! RUN!
H. M. Fust | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
I’ve read all the comments here and want to thank M. Sue Pagay, MS for providing this forum. My husband and I started a company in April this year and are desperately in need of operating capital. My first reaction to his suggestion of grants was that it was a scam, based on the idea that I knew our business does not qualify for gov’t grants. The company that we had initiated contact with and have ongoing correspondence with is Company Funds, Inc.(which was asked about twice above, with no responses thus far). After speaking with an agent for over an hour, I began to see things differently. They DO ask for $3500 up front, the same amount after funding (in 6mos or so). A lot of what I was told is the same as what I’m seeing here. But, there were other things that made it SEEM like this company might be ok.
As an educator, I’ve worked on grants with other teachers, so I know a little bit about the application and post funding processes. This agent discussed the deadlines for submission on some of the PRIVATE (not gov’t) grants for which they found we qualified. I understand the need to create a sense of urgency in sales; however, I also know that grant applications DO have deadlines. So, this simultaneously sent up a red flag and added validation to his pitch. (not good when you’re trying to make a big decision) Second, he mentioned that after funds were received that they would assist us in submitting the documentation necessary to prove that our funds were appropriately spent. Since I know that this is required by grant recipients, it also lent credibility to the company. Finally, the agent detailed the items for which the different types of grants provided funds and why specific requirements (i.e. the purchase of new vehicles for the business as opposed to older used ones) were in place. In the case of new vehicles, the funds providers want to ensure that their money is spent on something reliable. He (the agent) also discussed having to provide specific details about and proof of what was purchased. All of this was offered without my asking. He further stated that they were not interested in $7000 as much as they were in continued business since the first grant is the hardest to get, but that if the recipient fulfilled their use of the grant funds appropriately, it makes funding easier thereafter WITH THE SAME FUND PROVIDER. They are aiming, he said, toward doing business with us for 3-5 years.
I did as was suggested and checked them out via the web and found 3 things. 1. Their website offers more than grant assistance (sba loans, a $400 do it yourself grant writing package for those seeking <$100K , and something else I forget – incorporating, maybe?). I found THAT to be interesting (again, lending some credibility). 2. There were 2 posts about them in Rip-Off Reports (making me question their validity again) and 3. A BBB post on CCT (mentioned above) in which the BBB suggests that someone offered grants does request a references list.
I’ve called my agent and left a message stating that we’re a “go” once he produces businesses that I can contact to verify they’ve received funding via his company. Then I read on this board about having other people contact me if I received funding. I think that while I would NOT want dozens of calls, I WOULD post a link to their website on our company website to give them “free” advertising if we were funded.
In addition to sharing my experience, I wondered if anyone else had been told the things I had about what happens POST funding and if anyone had any experience with Company Funds, Inc. which they were willing to share. As it stands now, I’m undecided what course of action we’ll take. I know that the Patriot Act and the other law stated above are ridiculous for them to use as reasons not to give up references (neither pertain to the grant receipt situation), so it will be interesting to see what excuse, if any, is given.
Thanks again for posting your experiences here. I will ONLY write again IF we choose to pursue the grant avenue for our capital instead of an SBA loan or investors so that I can let you know our grant experience. OH, I also wanted to add that we only sought the minimum ($100K) and were TOLD that we qualify for $175K (a significantly larger amount – unlike what was mentioned by the PP re: funds being promised are “less than” what was sought or originally offered).
H. M. Fust, NBCT, M.Ed. (so that I’m not thought to be “hiding”)
H. M. Fust | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
I’ve read all the comments here and want to thank M. Sue Pagay, MS for providing this forum. My husband and I started a company in April this year and are desperately in need of operating capital. My first reaction to his suggestion of grants was that it was a scam, based on the idea that I knew our business does not qualify for gov\’t grants. The company that we had initiated contact with and have ongoing correspondence with is Company Funds, Inc.(which was asked about twice above, with no responses thus far). After speaking with an agent for over an hour, I began to see things differently. They DO ask for $3500 up front, the same amount after funding (in 6mos or so). A lot of what I was told is the same as what I\’m seeing here. But, there were other things that made it SEEM like this company might be ok.
As an educator, I\’ve worked on grants with other teachers, so I know a little bit about the application and post funding processes. This agent discussed the deadlines for submission on some of the PRIVATE (not gov\’t) grants for which they found we qualified. I understand the need to create a sense of urgency in sales; however, I also know that grant applications DO have deadlines. So, this simultaneously sent up a red flag and added validation to his pitch. (not good when you\’re trying to make a big decision) Second, he mentioned that after funds were received that they would assist us in submitting the documentation necessary to prove that our funds were appropriately spent. Since I know that this is required by grant recipients, it also lent credibility to the company. Finally, the agent detailed the items for which the different types of grants provided funds and why specific requirements (i.e. the purchase of new vehicles for the business as opposed to older used ones) were in place. In the case of new vehicles, the funds providers want to ensure that their money is spent on something reliable. He (the agent) also discussed having to provide specific details about and proof of what was purchased. All of this was offered without my asking. He further stated that they were not interested in $7000 as much as they were in continued business since the first grant is the hardest to get, but that if the recipient fulfilled their use of the grant funds appropriately, it makes funding easier thereafter WITH THE SAME FUND PROVIDER. They are aiming, he said, toward doing business with us for 3-5 years.
I did as was suggested and checked them out via the web and found 3 things. 1. Their website offers more than grant assistance (SBA loans, a $400 do it yourself grant writing package for those seeking <$100K , and something else I forget – incorporating, maybe?). I found THAT to be interesting (again, lending some credibility). 2. There were 2 posts about them in Rip-Off Reports (making me question their validity again) and 3. A BBB post on CCT (mentioned above) in which the BBB suggests that someone offered grants does request a references list.
I’ve called my agent and left a message stating that we’re a “go” once he produces businesses that I can contact to verify they’ve received funding via his company. Then I read on this board about having other people contact me if I received funding. I think that while I would NOT want dozens of calls, I WOULD post a link to their website on our company website to give them “free” advertising if we were funded.
In addition to sharing my experience, I wondered if anyone else had been told the things I had about what happens POST funding and if anyone had any experience with Company Funds, Inc. which they were willing to share. As it stands now, I\’m undecided what course of action we\’ll take. I know that the Patriot Act and the other law stated above are ridiculous for them to use as reasons not to give up references (neither pertain to the grant receipt situation), so it will be interesting to see what excuse, if any, is given.
Thanks again for posting your experiences here. I will ONLY write again IF we choose to pursue the grant avenue for our capital instead of an SBA loan or investors so that I can let you know our grant experience. OH, I also wanted to add that we only sought the minimum ($100K) and were TOLD that we qualify for $175K (a significantly larger amount – unlike what was mentioned by the PP re: funds being promised are \”less than\” what was sought or originally offered).
H. M. Fust, NBCT, M.Ed. (so that I\’m not thought to be “hiding”)
H. M. Fust | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
I have read all the comments here and want to thank M. Sue Pagay, MS for providing this forum. My husband and I started a company in April this year and are desperately in need of operating capital. My first reaction to his suggestion of grants was that it was a scam, based on the idea that I knew our business does not qualify for government grants. The company that we had initiated contact with and have ongoing correspondence with is Company Funds, Inc.(which was asked about twice above, with no responses thus far). After speaking with an agent for over an hour, I began to see things differently. They DO ask for $3500 up front, the same amount after funding (in 6mos or so). A lot of what I was told is the same as what I am seeing here. But, there were other things that made it SEEM like this company might be ok.
As an educator, I have worked on grants with other teachers, so I know a little bit about the application and post funding processes. This agent discussed the deadlines for submission on some of the PRIVATE (not govt) grants for which they found we qualified. I understand the need to create a sense of urgency in sales; however, I also know that grant applications DO have deadlines. So, this simultaneously sent up a red flag and added validation to his pitch. (not good when one is trying to make a big decision) Second, he mentioned that after funds were received that they would assist us in submitting the documentation necessary to prove that our funds were appropriately spent. Since I know that this is required by grant recipients, it also lent credibility to the company. Finally, the agent detailed the items for which the different types of grants provided funds and why specific requirements (i.e. the purchase of new vehicles for the business as opposed to older used ones) were in place. In the case of new vehicles, the funds providers want to ensure that their money is spent on something reliable. He (the agent) also discussed having to provide specific details about and proof of what was purchased. All of this was offered without my asking. He further stated that they were not interested in $7000 as much as they were in continued business since the first grant is the hardest to get, but that if the recipient fulfilled their use of the grant funds appropriately, it makes funding easier thereafter WITH THE SAME FUND PROVIDER. They are aiming, he said, toward doing business with us for 3-5 years.
I did as was suggested and checked them out via the web and found 3 things. 1. Their website offers more than grant assistance (SBA loans, a $400 do it yourself grant writing package for those seeking <$100K , and something else I forget – incorporating, maybe?). I found THAT to be interesting (again, lending some credibility). 2. There were 2 posts about them in Rip-Off Reports (making me question their validity again) and 3. A BBB post on CCT (mentioned above) in which the BBB suggests that someone offered grants does request a references list.
I called my agent and left a message stating that we are set once he produces businesses that I can contact to verify they received funding via his company. Then I read on this board about having other people contact me if I received funding. I think that while I would NOT want dozens of calls, I WOULD post a link to their website on our company website to give them free advertising if we were funded.
In addition to sharing my experience, I wondered if anyone else had been told the things I had about what happens POST funding and if anyone had any experience with Company Funds, Inc. which they were willing to share. As it stands now, I am undecided what course of action we will take. I know that the Patriot Act and the other law stated above are ridiculous for them to use as reasons not to give up references (neither pertain to the grant receipt situation), so it will be interesting to see what excuse, if any, is given for not providing references.
Thanks again for posting your experiences here. I will ONLY write again IF we choose to pursue the grant avenue for our capital instead of an SBA loan or investors so that I can let you know our grant experience. OH, I also wanted to add that we only sought the minimum ($100K) and were TOLD that we qualify for $175K (a significantly larger amount – unlike what was mentioned by the PP re: funds being promised are less than what was sought or originally offered).
H. M. Fust, NBCT, M.Ed. (so that I am not thought to be hiding but still have some modicum of protection from a few of the lurkers seen here)
hayleyfust | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
I have read all the comments here and want to thank M. Sue Pagay, MS for providing this forum. My husband and I started a company in April this year and are desperately in need of operating capital. My first reaction to his suggestion of grants was that it was a scam, based on the idea that I knew our business does not qualify for government grants. The company that we had initiated contact with and have ongoing correspondence with is Company Funds, Inc.(which was asked about twice above, with no responses thus far). After speaking with an agent for over an hour, I began to see things differently. They DO ask for $3500 up front, the same amount after funding (in 6mos or so). A lot of what I was told is the same as what I am seeing here. But, there were other things that made it SEEM like this company might be ok.
As an educator, I have worked on grants with other teachers, so I know a little bit about the application and post funding processes. This agent discussed the deadlines for submission on some of the PRIVATE (not govt) grants for which they found we qualified. I understand the need to create a sense of urgency in sales; however, I also know that grant applications DO have deadlines. So, this simultaneously sent up a red flag and added validation to his pitch. (not good when one is trying to make a big decision) Second, he mentioned that after funds were received that they would assist us in submitting the documentation necessary to prove that our funds were appropriately spent. Since I know that this is required by grant recipients, it also lent credibility to the company. Finally, the agent detailed the items for which the different types of grants provided funds and why specific requirements (i.e. the purchase of new vehicles for the business as opposed to older used ones) were in place. In the case of new vehicles, the funds providers want to ensure that their money is spent on something reliable. He (the agent) also discussed having to provide specific details about and proof of what was purchased. All of this was offered without my asking. He further stated that they were not interested in $7000 as much as they were in continued business since the first grant is the hardest to get, but that if the recipient fulfilled their use of the grant funds appropriately, it makes funding easier thereafter WITH THE SAME FUND PROVIDER. They are aiming, he said, toward doing business with us for 3-5 years.
I did as was suggested and checked them out via the web and found 3 things. 1. Their website offers more than grant assistance (SBA loans, a $400 do it yourself grant writing package for those seeking <$100K , and something else I forget – incorporating, maybe?). I found THAT to be interesting (again, lending some credibility). 2. There were 2 posts about them in Rip-Off Reports (making me question their validity again) and 3. A BBB post on CCT (mentioned above) in which the BBB suggests that someone offered grants does request a references list.
I called my agent and left a message stating that we are set once he produces businesses that I can contact to verify they received funding via his company. Then I read on this board about having other people contact me if I received funding. I think that while I would NOT want dozens of calls, I WOULD post a link to their website on our company website to give them free advertising if we were funded.
In addition to sharing my experience, I wondered if anyone else had been told the things I had about what happens POST funding and if anyone had any experience with Company Funds, Inc. which they were willing to share. As it stands now, I am undecided what course of action we will take. I know that the Patriot Act and the other law stated above are ridiculous for them to use as reasons not to give up references (neither pertain to the grant receipt situation), so it will be interesting to see what excuse, if any, is given for not providing references.
Thanks again for posting your experiences here. I will ONLY write again IF we choose to pursue the grant avenue for our capital instead of an SBA loan or investors so that I can let you know our grant experience. OH, I also wanted to add that we only sought the minimum ($100K) and were TOLD that we qualify for $175K (a significantly larger amount – unlike what was mentioned by the PP re: funds being promised are less than what was sought or originally offered).
H. M. Fust, NBCT, M.Ed. (so that I am not thought to be hiding but still have some modicum of protection from a few of the lurkers seen here)
hayleyfust | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
I have read the comments here and want to thank M. Sue Pagay, MS for providing this forum. My husband & I started a company in April & are desperately in need of operating capital. My first reaction to his suggestion of grants was that it was a scam, based on the idea that I knew our business does not qualify for government grants. The company that we had initiated contact with and have ongoing correspondence with is Company Funds, Inc.(which was asked about twice above, with no responses thus far). After speaking with an agent for over an hr, I began to see things differently. They DO ask for $3500 up front, the same amount after funding (in 6mos or so). A lot of what I was told is the same as what I am seeing here. But, there were other things that made it SEEM like this company might be ok.
As an educator, I have worked on grants with other teachers, so I know a little about the application and post funding processes. This agent discussed deadlines for submission on some of the PRIVATE (not govt) grants for which they found we qualified. I understand the need to create a sense of urgency in sales; however, I also know that grant applications DO have deadlines. So, this simultaneously sent up a red flag and added validation to his pitch. Second, he mentioned that after funds were received that they would assist us in submitting the documentation necessary to prove that our funds were appropriately spent. Since I know that this is required by grant recipients, it also lent credibility to the company. Finally, the agent detailed the items for which the different types of grants provided funds and why specific requirements (i.e. the purchase of new vehicles for the business as opposed to older used ones) were in place. In the case of new vehicles, the funds providers want to ensure that their money is spent on something reliable. He (the agent) also discussed having to provide specific details about and proof of what was purchased. All of this was offered without my asking. He further stated that they were not interested in $7000 as much as they were in continued business since the first grant is the hardest to get, but that if the recipient fulfilled their use of the grant funds appropriately, it makes funding easier thereafter WITH THE SAME FUND PROVIDER. They are aiming, he said, toward doing business with us for 3-5 years. (the first funds would be required to be given to us by 12-31-09 to meet the requirements set by the new American Recovery Act (or whatever its called).
I checked them out via the web and found 3 things. 1. Their website offers more than grant assistance (SBA loans, a $400 do it yourself grant writing package for those seeking <$100K , and something else I forget – incorporating, maybe?). I found THAT to be interesting (again, lending some credibility). 2. There were 2 posts about them in Rip-Off Reports (making me question their validity again) and 3. A BBB post on CCT (mentioned above) in which the BBB suggests that someone offered grants does request a references list.
I called my agent and left a message stating that we are set once he produces businesses that I can contact to verify they received funding via his company. Then I read on this board about having other people contact me if I received funding. I think that while I would NOT want dozens of calls, I WOULD post a link to their website on our company website to give them free advertising if we were funded.
In addition to sharing my experience, I wondered if anyone else had been told the things I had about what happens POST funding and if anyone had any experience with Company Funds, Inc. which they were willing to share. As it stands now, I am undecided what course of action we will take. I know that the Patriot Act and the other law stated above are ridiculous for them to use as reasons not to give up references (neither pertain to the grant receipt situation), so it will be interesting to see what excuse, if any, is given for not providing references.
Thanks again for posting your experiences here. I will ONLY write again IF we choose to pursue the grant avenue for our capital instead of an SBA loan or investors so that I can let you know our grant experience. OH, I also wanted to add that we only sought the minimum ($100K) and were TOLD that we qualify for $175K.
H. M. Fust, NBCT, M.Ed. (so that I am not thought to be hiding but still have some modicum of protection from a few of the lurkers seen here)
Michael Turico | Jul 17, 2009 | Reply
Yes. Company Funds Inc is a bunch of crap. It is the same owner that ran the Small Business Funding Scam! Run for your life!!!! They scam you out of your $3,500!!!! Please don’t send them any money!
john | Jul 19, 2009 | Reply
Hi just got our grant money from Corporate Capital team it took 8 months $84,000.00 alot of paper work and phone calls i was dealing with a jim sardo ext 269 thanks!! we were worry too but they did the job!!!!!!!
JOHN | Jul 19, 2009 | Reply
We just got our grant money from Corporate Capital team $84,000.00 dollars it took over 7months!! and alot of paper work and phone calls!! we were dealing with a jim sardo ext 269. Me and my wife was getting worry but they came thur thanks guys!!
Shelley | Jul 22, 2009 | Reply
I’m checking into this because my sister is ready to put together that business plan they now need IMMEDIATELY…they didn’t come out and ask for money for the business plan but said they had someone who could write it for between $6-1200. The example they sent was so intimidating and overwhelming, that of course she’d want to pay someone $1200 to get her $280k they said is waiting ONLY for the business plan.
So…John…tell me more about how you finally got your $84k? How much did you spend up front? What is your business? Where’s the proof you’re not a CCT plant?
THANKS–Shelley
notbornlastnite | Jul 22, 2009 | Reply
Thanks folks ,cct had me going , too . Glad I called around and checked several sites on the web. Makes me so mad people trying to rip off others.
erin Extension 31 | Jul 22, 2009 | Reply
So Im sure all of you are extremely nervous about the entire grant process. You would all pay the fee upfront if you knew you were going to get funded right? obviously. I ork for Company Funds. I cn tell you that we are listed as top 5 in the nation with our sucess rate as well as we have about 8-10 complant with the bbb in the last 3 years , all resolved, not one person complained about not recievig money. I’ve been with them about 2 1/2 years and dont have any complaints. We don’t know who isgoing to fund your project so we cannot guarentee anything but look us up… sk yourelf if the numbers make sense. We have raio avertisements nationwide and ARE a member of the secrertary of state. We have to charge a fee. Its not a goverment grant and we dot just d this on the side fo fun guys. Sorry. lol but yu will love OUR company, give me a call. 1-877-943-8637 Extension 331. We will also match any price given and knock off 100 bucks. do some research. *
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Jul 23, 2009 | Reply
Erin — I’m sorry that I have to bring this up … but, take a look at your writing. If you are charging folks to “write” and to apply for grants, your spelling and grammar should be literally impeccable. Just in your paragraph (shown above) there are numerous spelling errors and grammatical disasters. Your punctuation alone is remarkable.
I may be willing to put down a few dollars to have someone drop a grant application quickly for me at a place that I didn’t give much credence to, but I CERTAINLY would NOT spend even $100 to have a grant proposal written with such disregard for the English language. It only depicts sloppiness and WHO wants to put out money for someone to do a sloppy job? Not me.
The written proposal, after all, is the first impression a funder will get about who we are … and we all know how important first impressions can be. Proposals (especially those that come with a high price) must be METICULOUS! Come on, now. Take a close look at your work … it does NOT give me the impression that ANY amount of professional care is given to your work if the above paragraph is any example of your writing skills. “Knocking off 100 bucks” would not be good enough because the entire “work” would not be worth a 100 bucks to begin with!.
lisa | Aug 10, 2009 | Reply
Corporate Capital Team SUCKS!!!!!!!!!
Lloyd | Aug 17, 2009 | Reply
I too, Have been scammed. This September will be 2 years. After I gave them the money I couldn,t get them on the phone when I did it was never the same person or that person ill or in the hospital. I did the reserch and they are very covincing that they can get you a grant. He told me to put it on my credit card and I would only have to make a couple of payments until the money arrived. I didn’t go that route but I feel sorry for those who did. Dose anyone know if we all get together if we can file a class action lawsuite aginst them.I will check in to see if someone has an idea or anything I will leave an email address at that time.
Erica | Aug 17, 2009 | Reply
John, I would also like to know if you really got money from CCT or if it is a joke. My boss runs a used car lot and we have not been doing so well we signed up and paid the $2400. In return we get no phone calls returned and no one ever seems to be there. Well I am planning a trip to Vegas in December and am planning on going there myself to see what this place is.
sara | Aug 17, 2009 | Reply
It should only take 3 to 6 months for your grant funding to come in. It’s a scam.
David | Aug 19, 2009 | Reply
They are a scam. Call the FBI office in Las Vegas and they will speak with you.
Shahab | Aug 19, 2009 | Reply
john seems like a fake he wrote the same thing on yahoo word for word. http://local.yahoo.com/info-45078895-corporate-capital-team-henderson?tab=reviews#reviews
check it out
Kevint | Aug 26, 2009 | Reply
John,
I don’t mean to sound pessimistic.. ok, I do.
But – just because you say you got a grant through these guys does not mean you got it.
You “could” be with these folks and one of the scammers.
Please provide some background and proof if you can.
Thanks
Lauren | Aug 28, 2009 | Reply
I would like to speak with you about corporate capital.
Lauren | Aug 28, 2009 | Reply
Oops! Kebler4444..I would like to talk to you about CCT!
Ray | Aug 31, 2009 | Reply
Ray: I’m beginning to wonder if anyone out there can write, spell or put a sentence together correctly. Don’t you even have spell checkers. It’s painful reading the poorly put together information I’ve seen on this blog. I represent a non-profit (501 (c) (3)) organization and have been approached by CCT as it appears as though many of you have. Trying to separate the wheat from the chaf is not easy; however, there is enough information provided to warrant a great deal of further investigation before allowing our limited monies to be gambled away. If you haven’t already looked, go to Rip-Off Reports and get their take on CCT or any other program in whlich you are interested.
Ray | Aug 31, 2009 | Reply
Ray: It appears as though I’m guilty of what I just accused others of–”which”, sorry!
Marie | Sep 2, 2009 | Reply
My sister has recieved a request to accept a Grant from a company Called Capital Investment Services, Inc. have anyone heard of this company? 750 Coronado Center Drive, Suite 120 Henderson Nevada 89052
FBI Informant | Sep 3, 2009 | Reply
I am an FBI informant. I worked within one of these environments for a short time. They are a scam. No one is recieving grants except for a small amount of real non profits. Company funds, inc. has several individuals who are well versed in scamming. These individuals are Lee Paneli, Allen Moore, Mary and her boyfirend Kevin Shoemaker, Kristy and Jennifer.
If these are there real names.
Beware and do not do business with these individuals or company. Go their office location to see for yourself and also contact the FBI office in Las Vegas. They are aware of these people.
sharon caza | Sep 7, 2009 | Reply
Corporate Capital Team is a Fraud. There have been NO Grants issued to ANY of their clients. They tell people they have to respond to foundations for urgency to get the retainer money or the file becomes inactive. This is not how it works. They will tell you if you do not act now they will reassign money. This is not true. If you saw the people that worked there ……….streeters. Bad news they play on your fantasy that you will get the money. You will get nothing but silence after you gave the check.
Shelly …..John did not get a grant…. his brother worked there he wanted to direct business his way.
Funny……. you really are naive …………………the only people who talk to clients are the salespeople and that is to get the check .After the check is received they dodge calls.
Gail | Sep 24, 2009 | Reply
I can’t believe I came across this – we applied with Corporate Capital Team last November after I received a phone call. I called the BBB and they had no negative info so we went ahead and gave them a check for $2400. In the beginning before they received our money a guy named Aaron Bergmann was always calling us. After they got our money we weren’t hearing anything so I had to keep calling them or e-mailing them. They would always say they were working on our grant.
Finally, I got really mad and I e-mailed them and told them I was going to report them to the BBB in my state and also in Nevada. Someone called me and gave me some excuse and said they were still working on it and I didn’t need to send anymore money – just an e-mail stating that I wanted to extend the services at no cost to me. I had told the gentleman that called me that I was going to turn this over to my lawyer and he got defensive saying if we wanted to get lawyers invoolved we could certainly do that. We are going out to Las Vegas in 2 days and I am going to call the BBB there and also check with the FBI. It really makes me mad that people can scam people like this. I am probably going to call my lawyers still because they are already prepaid to take care of things like this for us.
Someone needs to stop this company!!
scammed | Sep 29, 2009 | Reply
I used to work for Capital Investment Services, Henderson NV. I once believed in it. I will not expand on the reasons but knowing what I now know about the company and its owner, I would never give this company a hot nickel of my money. I would not recommend this company to any one.
Evan | Sep 29, 2009 | Reply
Unfortunatley you did not work for Capital Investment Services. Very clearly had you worked with this group you would not be posting such a remark. Most assuredly you probably applied for work and you were turned down based upon your credibility and background.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Sep 29, 2009 | Reply
Evan — how do you figure? Companies who have elicited so much problems for so many people are really the ones whose “credibility” is in question … not those people who speak up about their dishonest methods. “Most assuredly” by any chance, do YOU work for them?
evan | Sep 30, 2009 | Reply
Not by far. Born, raised, live in and own a business in a very rural area of Illinois. I was extended the invitation to visit the grant writers of Capital Investment Services in Illinois because of my doubting their credibility. No I do not work for this group and no I did not visit the Illinois location. I did however visit the Nevada location (overdue anniversary) and was impressed. We walked in without apointment and within 40 minutes we were on a conference call to a grant writer in Illinois. All appears to be well above board (I may be rural but no fool). We are at ease with our decision because of the professionalism and knowlege they shared. It was not an atmosphere of give me money at all but one of a common interest and goal. The offices not large but pleasant and the staff small and friendly.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Sep 30, 2009 | Reply
Evan — You sound like a very intelligent person and one who is probably more “professional” than those so-called profesionals that we are focusing on here. From the way you write, I believe you honestly feel that these folks are true to their word.
However, there are degrees of professionalism. And, attacking a person for claiming that they have had problems with a given “company” is not professional in any which way or form. Because I feel that you are intelligent, I believe that you can make your statement in favor of these companies without attacking others in the forum. That’s not what the focus of this discussion group is about. And I, as the originator of this forum, would sincerely apprecate objective statements of the pros and cons of these (in my personal experience) con artists sans the attacks on others in this group. Thank you!
Evan | Oct 1, 2009 | Reply
If I had not received a flag I certainly would not have responded. You, Sue Pagay are an interesting…….. egenda. I simply made a point and quite disappointing to you I did not state anything about any other organization. This has certainly been a very time consuming project. We continue to move forward.
We employ many. Our goal, to maintain course stay focused and continue to hire. I simply stated, Capital Investment Services offered an assistance based upon our company, employees, goal……….this is 3 months past.. All is on target.
Sue although your site may give information to all, please note your spelling needs help as you pointed out to many others. You must be a very busy writer.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Oct 1, 2009 | Reply
Evan — I would suggest that you learn a little about grammar and where to place commas and other forms of conventional punctuation. I would also suggest that you use a spell check. I really don’t think you are much of an authority of the matter of the English language, so I’m not too worried about your opinion of my writing career. But, thank you for your kind thoughts (whatever kind they are).
And if the site is so bad, Evan … (3 periods is the conventional punctuation) … why are you here so often? If you are so appalled by its content, you are certainly free to leave. No one is stopping you. See ya.
If you have something of importance to contribute to the forum, please do so. You are most welcome. If you are only here to criticize the folks who are here for a purpose, then you have no purpose to be here. And, you are wasting everyone’s time.
ally | Oct 2, 2009 | Reply
Looks like Evan got you a little upset.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Oct 2, 2009 | Reply
Ally — Anyone who just stops by to take a swipe or two at others in a desperate attempt for attention wastes time. They don’t contribute anything.
Did he make me upset? No, not really. There are more important people, places and things in life to get “upset” over. Irked, yes because I don’t care much for wasting time.
scammed | Oct 3, 2009 | Reply
I assure you, in the strongest possible terms, that I did work for this company, am intimately familiar with the principals of this company and know, far better than you do, the process by which clients are introduced to the grant procedure. I know that I dont have any clients in Illinois, but I know for a fact that I am on first name basis with your grant facilitator as I know all of them, and knew most of them before Capital Investment Services opened its doors in May.
Many businesses start out with good intentions. This one did too.
Evan if you remain engaged in the process with your grant writer, you will get your money. The company does, and always has had grant writers. However, there are other problems with the company that make it doubtful that newer clients will get their grant.
I once caught the bus, in sweltering Las Vegas summer heat, for 6 hours a day( that was my daily commute since I didnt, at the time, have $75 to get my car registered) for this company. I worked weekends. I put the company on my social networking site. I solicited business for this company, on my social networking site. I turned down better paying job offers. When I finally did get my car registered, I still had a 45 minute commute which I travelled, during the hot summer, across las vegas valley, that had no air conditioning. I did this because I believed in the company. But after 4 months as passionately as I used to endorse this company, I must now caution against it. There are othere variables at play, and other factors, aside from customer service issues, that can lead to a companies downfall.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Oct 3, 2009 | Reply
Scammed — I believe you. And I am sure that anyone who can add 2 and 2 together and come up with 4 would believe you. There is more going on in these places than meets the eye, and it all doesn’t have much to do with getting the average Joe grant money. With all the writing on the wall, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure that out!
DKW | Oct 4, 2009 | Reply
scammed you were caught and fired care to tell why?
bridezilla | Oct 7, 2009 | Reply
SBFC AND CCT ARE BOTH UNDER INVESTIGATION AND WILL BE CLOSED BE THE FIRST OF THE YEAR THEY WILL DO ANYTHING TO GET YOUR MONEY NOW AND YOU WILL NEVER FIND THEM AGAIN.
THANK YOU
Rod G. | Oct 9, 2009 | Reply
I was contacted earlier today by capital investment group, inc., spoke with a fellow by the name of Lennie Duvall. capitalgrantinc.com is the web site he gave me. I own and operate a restaurant and golf course in so. ill.. Very exciting news this guy had! Seems they are based out of nevada also, same town even (I think, had me excited). All he wants is $2300 up front. If the grant funds would exceed 1million, they require $6000. By the time I got off the phone we were at 1.6M.. Need to hurry though, were in the last quarter and time is running out for private money to get a tax break on gifting… If you happen to visit this web site, This wouldn’t happen to be the same bldg. would it? This guy promised me a new bus and a truck, man. mention was made to solar powered sprinkler system for the course too. $100k for that. I am very depressed now (back to reality). However I am now very motivated to seek and research my own funding for future growth. Nothing is “free” besides your own hard work. Ask any employee? -RodG.
Bridezilla | Oct 9, 2009 | Reply
ATTN:ROD G.
Just as with any company Rod you have to do your homework and check them out with the local BBB and attorny general,secretary of the state report and find out if they have bad complaints, that all you can do, but dont pass by a great oppertunity just out of fear. Hope this helps my friend been where you are at now many times .
Thank you
W. Henderson | Oct 9, 2009 | Reply
hey any body out there looking for small business funding company can find them operating as Silver State Holding Company, Inc. or Silver State Holdings or Silver State Holding Corp. at 1-800-338-6182 happily ripping people off under their new name.
scammed | Oct 10, 2009 | Reply
I wasnt “caught” doing anything. Had I been willing to play this owners game I could have gotten my job back. Fortunately for me I have been able to get a much better paying job, with a company that is providing a service to customers. I work for a company that is encouraging us to generate business from the local Las Vegas area, something Capital Investment Services routinely discouraged people from doing. Every large company has disgruntelled former employees, but this company is only 5 months old and only has a few former employees. They are all disgruntelled. Its not my $2400. Its the customers. I will let them draw their own conclusions.
Kurt Robertson | Oct 13, 2009 | Reply
WOW! I have spent a lot of valuable time reading through every posted comment, fascinated by the comments themselves, and the truly amazing lack of command of the English language that is demonstrated. Obviously, our educational system is a dismal failure and/or the speed with which poeple are pounding on their keyboards is creating havoc with the ability to spell, use correct puncuation and put proper sentences together. It is at the same time sad, and almost hysterically funny.
I too researched CCT out of curiosity after responding to an online advertisement. The rep (Steve XYZ) is smooth as a baby’s behind…but I’m still trying to determine if he (them) smell as bad as what that baby’s behind creates. It all surely sounds good…but the research I’ve done, along with these numerous posts, leaves a gaping hole in the credibility arena.
I can easily afford the $2400….but as has been written, a fool and his money are easily parted. I do believe that the private foundation grants are out there, and that my business endeavors would qualify for something. However, I agree that, if it were all so wonderful, and CCT is so confident that they can procure grant monies, why then do they not offer to charge
the fees AFTER the monies are granted?…cawzin’ I guessims dat dey thincks weeze alls bees a bunch ofs idiotts and dummeez. If anyone out there has actually and verifiably received grant monies as a result of CCT’s efforts, please post about your good fortune.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Oct 18, 2009 | Reply
Kurt — I appreciate your comments about the focus of this forum, but as they say “people in glass houses should not throw stones” … while you felt comfortable enough to condemn the educational capacity of the folks in this forum you are mis-spelling (or pounding on the keyboard too hard) words as simple as “people” (not poeple).
The focus of this forum is the integrity of the grant “agencies” and it is not an open forum for bogus critiques of each other’s style (or lack of) in writing or grammar. I’d thank you and everyone else who has the inclination to present your experiences here to keep your “evaluations” of others in the group to yourself (because no one else really cares). Just limit your comments to the topic at hand, please and try to do so in a professional and objective manner. Thank you!
Susan | Oct 19, 2009 | Reply
We have recently been approached by Corporate Capital Team, on Oct. 5, 2009. They are wanting us to sign a contract with them today. I am so glad that I found this sight! We were uneasy, but hopeful. So this organization is still contacting people as of today. We will not be signing up, I am so relieved. I will be starting my own research into applying for grants. It can be done, it is a long process and it would be nice to pay someone to do all the work for you. I guess anything worth getting, especially free, should take some effort. I didn’t like having to right an essay to receive a scholarship for college either, but it paid off. Thanks again for the information.
ContentRichSavvyWoman | Oct 20, 2009 | Reply
People! Check these businesses with the Attorney Generals Office, the Secretary of State (for legitimate licensing and time in business) and the Better Business Bureau (read the complaints, if any, and see if they are “taking care of business”)in the area the business is located.
Why would you believe someone you do not know on a BLOG?! I could type anything I want on the blogs and get away with all kinds of lies… Do your own homework!
This obviously does not apply to people who personally know someone who has gotten personal insite into any company in question, but please don’t “buy into” the “hype” of an absolute stranger.
M. Sue Pagay, M.S. | Oct 20, 2009 | Reply
Content — EXACTLY! That is just what this BLOG is all about … Of course, reading different people’s personal experience is ALSO part of doing one’s homework. It may not be given as much “weight” in the final decision, but it is part of the research process (anecdotal) and has its legitimate place in checking up (think of it as “ratings”).
But, you are saying exactly what this blog is saying : DO YOUR HOMEWORK! VERY GOOD> THANK YOU!
Brenda Thack | Oct 22, 2009 | Reply
Hi… I have the address for these jerks…
Corporate Capitol Team
2920 N. Green Valley Pkwy
Bldg 8, Suite 821
Henderson, NV 89014
PH 888 216-9445
They tried to get us for $6,000.00 up front.
Robbie | Oct 31, 2009 | Reply
Have you received any money to date from this company? My husband is interested in working with them. I’m very concerned now that I’ve read all these comments.
judy | Nov 5, 2009 | Reply
They are no longer in business new name