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Step Three: Find Your Funding

Find funding for your business.
There are some businesses you can start with a very small capital outlay. You can put in your time and a little bit of money and give it a go. But many others—those with large physical presences like retail stores or restaurants, those that have to stock inventory before they can begin to sell it—require a stash of cash in order to get up and running. You may also need money for marketing, advertising, public relations and shipping. And one of the worst mistakes businesses make is trying to run on such a short shoestring budget that they don't give themselves a chance at success. Here are some resources that will help you determine what kind of funding you need to acquire.

Know how much you need.
As you get ready to launch your business, estimate how much money you will need to keep your business running for 12 to 18 months, or however long you believe it will take to give it a shot at success. Then figure out how much you can provide from your own stash—your savings, your family and friends, or cash flow from a current job. The difference between what you need and what you have is the amount you'll need to raise from other sources.
Download this worksheet to get a good idea. PDF 

Visit the Small Business Administration.
One of the first sources to explore would be the Small Business Administration, which is responsible for a huge amount of the funding that gets small American businesses off the ground. The SBA doesn't actually make loans itself. Instead, it offers financing at decent rates through normal lending channels like banks and credit unions. They're called SBA loans because the loans are guaranteed by the SBA. You can find more information on SBA loans on the SBA's website at sba.gov. In order to qualify for SBA or other loans, you'll need your business plan, as well as a history of your business experience.

Your personal credit history will factor in as well. Now's a good time to make sure your credit score is in tip-top shape.

 

Please note: This is general information and is not intended to be legal advice. You should consult with your own financial advisor before making any major financial decisions, including investments or changes to your portfolio, and a qualified legal professional before executing any legal documents or taking any legal action. Harpo Productions, Inc. and its affiliated companies and entities is not responsible for any losses, damages or claims that may result from your financial or legal decisions.