A Guide to Business Funding

A GUIDE TO BUSINESS FUNDINGWhen you’re looking to launch or expand your small business, there are several funding options available to you. In fact, there are probably more ways to fund your business than ever before. To help you understand your options, we’re highlighted six effective ways you can fund your business in 2021.

Bank & SBA loans

Applying for a bank loan or SBA loan is probably the first thing most people think of. Bank loans are available with both short-term and long-term repayment plans and can be used for a variety of reasons like expanding your business premises and buying equipment.

SBA loans for small business guarantee a large portion of the loan, so that the bank feels a little more inclined to top up the other part. SBAs are quite appealing for new business owners, but this makes the competition intense.

Credit card

While credit card financing isn’t really recommended as a long-term solution, it can help you get started. Purchasing the equipment, you need on your credit card can help space out the costs across a longer period. Just make sure to pay it off as quickly as possible to avoid large interest rate charges.

Equipment financing

Some business ideas will require specific equipment, and there are actually loans available for this specific business cost. You can search for equipment loans within your area, or take a look at equipment suppliers that offer their own financing options. Higher value items often come with the option to pay in monthly installments.

Business line of credit

Business line of credit options are similar to a home equity line. This type of funding is more like a security blanket, and you only have to tap into it when you need it. That said, as soon as you start using it, you have to start paying it back.

Independent investors

The online world has made it easier than ever to find investors for your dream business. Online marketplaces have begun to pop up where startups can find themselves an independent investor. These markets typically charge a small fee while the money is held in escrow. These platforms are a great way to meet other business owners and potential investors, and are especially popular with those who can’t find funding through other means.

Crowdfunding

If you’ve got an idea for a new invention or service that you think would really take off, crowdfunding is another funding option you could pursue. Here, you can pitch your business idea and see funding from interested individuals from around the world. Whether they invest $10 or $1,000, all the small investments can make a huge difference.

The money invested isn’t later paid back through cash, and usually these investors are ordinary people who are more interested in gaining early access to the service or product you’re creating. Which shouldn’t too hard for you to provide!

These are just six of hundreds of ways to fund your new business idea. When you put your mind to something, the world is your oyster. There are always people willing to support you in your ventures; you just have to find them. And don’t forget to remember them when you’re rich and famous!