They shouldn't get grants unless they let us citizens be able to invest if we want to.
You mean open an IPO? They could make alot of money off the bat with publicity, but shareholders aren't as patient, as the government is (people generally like results). They're playing it safe with venture capitalists, and retaining control, eventually they'll do an IPO, thats always the goal of venture capitalists.
The government is basically doing the grants to help ease in the feasability, and give them some time, and leeway, so as not to be burdened while they "work the kinks out". I don't personally like giving grants, but this is an intriging situtaion.