6 Sources of Start-Up Financing
Finding funds for your startup can feel like a never-ending process. It can feel even more complicated when you don’t know where to start.
But don’t fret. Many different types of business funding can help get your business off the ground.
We will look into 6 of the best ways to secure funds from your business. These can sometimes be dilutive or non-dilutive funding and depending on what you think is best, they can help to get your business the kickstart it needs.
These 6 strategies include:
- Friends and Family
- Personal investment
- Angels
- Online Lenders
- Personal Loans and Credit Cards
- Financing Firms
Let’s dive in and look at each one!
Friends and Family
Also known as “love money,” this is the most common form of financing for small businesses.
There are a few advantages to using friends and family money. The first is that it’s typically easier to secure than other types of funding since you can approach people you already know.
Second, is there often more flexibility in repayment terms since you can negotiate with friends and family much more straightforwardly than big banks.
But beware, going this route can strain personal relationships if things don’t go as planned. Having an explicit agreement in place that outlines the loan terms and repayment plans is essential.
Personal Investment
This strategy is essentially using your own savings to finance your business.
Personal investment has the advantage of being 100% under your control. You don’t have to answer to anyone else, and you can decide how to spend the money.
The downside, however, is that it can be challenging to get started if you don’t have much in the way of savings. And if your business fails, you risk losing a lot of your own savings.
Angel Investors
Angel investors are individuals who invest in companies in exchange for an equity stake.
One of the advantages of angel investors is that they can provide more than just funding; they can also offer advice and mentorship. Another plus is that they’re often more willing to take risks on early-stage businesses than other types of investors.
The downside is that it can be difficult to find angel investors, and they will typically want a more significant equity stake in your company than other types of investors.
Online Lenders
Online lenders are a good option because they offer fast approval times and flexible repayment terms. They also often have lower interest rates than traditional banks.
You typically need good credit to qualify, and the rates can still be high if you don’t have excellent credit.
Personal Loans and Credit Cards
This is a good option if you have good credit and don’t mind doing quite a bit of research to find a decent interest rate. The approval process is typically quick, and you can use the money for any business expenses.
Personal loans and credit cards often have high-interest rates, so this option can be expensive if you find yourself unable to repay and severely damage your credit rating.
Financing Firms
Financing firms are companies that provide loans to small businesses. They typically have more flexible eligibility requirements than banks, so they can be a good option if you don’t qualify for a bank loan.
Interest rates can be high, and you may be required to put up collateral, such as your home or business, to secure the loan.
So there, you have six ways to finance your small business. Not all these options will be available to everyone, so it’s best to do your research and figure out what makes the most sense for your business.
Weigh each option’s pros and cons and ensure you understand the risks involved before making any decisions.
