I'm unemployeed, released form prison 10/10/08, after serving 16 years. Was given no help then, because I wasn't Paroled. Have no hope on finding employment. Every one says there is free grant money available, but all sources I can find charge money for the service. I have feesible knowledege that will allow me to succeed, but need start-up funds. How can obtain access to these grants without having to spend money I haven't got?

Start up funds for what, do you have matching or other funds ?

There are few grants for "free" money there are often grants for non profits to help in established areas. Or for some business such as solar or wind power, or those that will bring so many 100 jobs into a area. Or for starting a business in a depressed area. But don't expect it to cover near all the costs of a start up.