There are many costs involved in starting a business. However, where is the money coming from if you don’t have any sales yet?
While experienced business owners may have access to a network of financiers for their businesses, it can be difficult for new entrepreneurs to secure funding without having had the chance to prove themselves. So how to get funding for a small business?
It is a common saying that it takes money to start a small business “…, but this is often true. Businesses often need cash infusions to purchase essential parts of their business. A pizzeria might need an industrial oven. A yard care company could need a commercial mower.
Many new business owners use personal savings to fund their businesses. They then reinvest the profits in the business. Although this approach is commonsense, it can limit your business’ growth and finances. You don’t have to do it all if your business requires significant capital. However, it can be risky for your financial security. We will be going over how to get funding for a small business.
Determine how much funding you’ll need
One of the first steps on how to get funding for a small business determining how much funding you’ll need, It is a vital part of your financial plan, but it can also help you decide how much funding you need. This will give you an immediate jumpstart in your financing search. You can also narrow down possible options based on their offer.
A well-constructed financial plan can increase your chances of being granted funding. This shows that you are forward-looking and is necessary for investors, traditional loans and other funds that may require a business plan.
After you have determined how much money you will need, you can start to look at your options. Here are some ways to get funding for a new business.
How To Get Funding For a Small Business
Existing and new businesses have access to many funding options beyond personal savings. These are the most popular ways on how to get funding for a small business .
Traditional loans
One of the way on how to get funding for a small business is traditional loans, You can seek financing for your business via loans from banks or credit unions, just like you would for your home and car. Bank funding can be beneficial because it allows you to access large amounts of money and builds your credit score. The downside is that it can be time-consuming and frustrating. Most lenders require a detailed business plan. They may also ask for collateral or a personal guarantee.
A traditional business loan is one of the most popular options. While the requirements and process may look the same regardless of the lender, there are many loan options that you should consider. So how do i get funding for my small business using traditional loans:
- Bank loans: Bank loans are the best option for small business owners who need funding. Although lending standards have become more stringent over the years, small businesses often have funds reserved for them depending on which lender they choose. Look around for lenders who are available to you when you apply. This will ensure you accurately fill out all paperwork and gives you insight into how you can improve your chances of getting approved. It’s more likely to have success chatting with someone at your local bank or credit union. Do your research and talk with several institutions to find the right fit.
- SBA loans: Small Business Administration Loans are often the first place small business owners think about looking for loans. If you meet the requirements, this can be a great loan option. This article will provide information about the SBA Loan Program. If you have already applied but had your application denied, you can read this article to learn how you can improve your chances of getting approved.
- Small Business Lending Fund: This dedicated fund provides capital to small businesses through specific lenders in each state. This program’s primary benefit is its ability to stimulate the economy. A bank that increases its loan output will pay less for funding. Providing loans to more companies and possibly passing on better terms or rates to business owners. The Treasury website allows you to review the participating banks and download an application. This site is updated monthly as new banks join or leave the program.
Grants
Another way on how to get funding for a small business is applying for grants, Entrepreneurs should also think about different grants to help with their new venture. These can be difficult to obtain and have particular conditions for eligibility, but this doesn’t mean that they cannot be an option for funding. The first and most important question is how can you access grants to help start your company?
How can I obtain the necessary grants to start my own company?
Organizations can provide small business set up grants to businesses that offer a range of missions, values and purposes.
There isn’t a single set of guidelines applicable to every grant opportunity. Still, generally, grant-makers are seeking companies that are in line with their declared mission and contribute value to the industry or community.
Small business grants aren’t loans, and therefore, the issuers aren’t expecting to get reimbursed. These aren’t investment funds, and neither are issuers planning to hold your company’s assets. But that doesn’t mean small business grants won’t come with expectations and rewards.
Issuers will still want to receive a yield from their investments, but not in the form of monetary returns. Instead, those who give small businesses grants are looking to ensure that your idea will contribute to their mission, whether a public good, innovation within the industry you are in, or economic development in an area.
Grants aren’t always “free money” also. Grant grantors typically have rules on how the funds can be used, and sometimes investing the funds themselves in particular resources they think will help your company expand.
If you’re starting your own business and want to apply for small-business grants to help your business grow, Here are some crucial tips to be aware of:
Find grants in your sector.
A majority of Small Business Grants are specific to the industry and can help narrow your options if you concentrate on research institutions and organizations in your specific industry. Concentrating on one particular industry creates buzz about your company. It may aid in establishing connections with people in the industry who could be able to give advice and invest in opportunities. This is important in understanding how to get funding for a small business
Be sure to read the eligibility requirements attentively.
This may sound evident, but it’s easy to ignore aspects of eligibility requirements and put a lot of effort into submitting for grants you’re not eligible for. Be sure to read the guidelines carefully and determine if you are eligible to receive the grant. If you’re uncertain if you’re eligible, reach out to an organization employee and inquire.
Be sure that your company is aligned with the mission of your organization.
The organizations that give small business grants do this to achieve a particular purpose they’re passionate about. Find out how your company approach can contribute to reaching this objective. If the answer isn’t easy to understand, you might think about seeking grants from a different organization.
Be aware of what you’ll spend the grant money on.
Some organizations will specify the items grant funds will be used for; however, even if there isn’t, it’s crucial to know how you intend to use the funds. When an organization is deciding whether to grant your company a grant, having a plan for your business and knowing how the grant money will be used will enable them to see more precisely how your business is in line with their goals.
Concentrate your pitch on the concept of the future of innovation and growth
Small-business organizations that award grants tend to favour companies that they consider innovative, forward-thinking and on the direction to grow. Concentrate your pitch on the way you’re planning to expand your business, any innovative technologies you may be working on, and how your company could assist the organization in achieving its goals. Here’s a list of locations to search for the right grant for your company.
1. National Association for the Self-Employed Grants
Since 2006, the National Association for the Self-Employed has awarded $650,000 in grants. The applicants can get up to $4,000 and apply the funds to marketing advertising, hiring new employees, or expanding facilities. It is necessary to be an active member of the association to apply, and it costs $120 per year.
2. Nav’s Small Business Grant
The Nav marketplace is an online platform that connects small business owners with the best financing options using finance and credit data. Nav gives away three grants every period, with the most successful grantee receiving $10,000. This helps help small businesses struggling and helps them achieve their next level of success.
The application process is simple. Describe your company and the issues you’re facing, and how the grant funds will propel you forward in your direction.
3. Small Business Innovation Research Program
One of the federal government’s most successful grants is the Small Business Innovation Research Program, which assists businesses with research and development initiatives.
The program, administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration, offers a variety of grants: open, closed future, and solicitation listings. You should research the best options for your business.
Be prepared for a lengthy qualification process and, if chosen, an exact measure plan to make sure the money will be put in the right direction.
4. Amber Grant for Women
Female business owners can profit from this grant. This grant was created at the end of 1998 by Women.net to aid entrepreneurs to succeed.
Each month one woman is selected to receive the $500 grant. After the year winner is chosen for a grant of $2,000.
It’s a straightforward application procedure. All you have to do is answer some short-answer questions on an online application and pay a fee of $7 for the application.
5. National Institute of Health Funding
The grants offered by the SBIR/STTR program of the National Institute of Health Funding will be available specifically to research or technology-based companies. If you are in the eligible business category, you can speak with an administrator before submitting to discuss the research or technology you’re planning to use the grant to fund. This will give one an understanding of the research institution is looking for and willing to invest in and also provide guidance on how to structure your proposal.
6. Government Small Business Grants
The most accessible grants are those offered by The U.S. government. However, these grants are generally sector-specific, so you’ll need to investigate what is available to you for your particular business. The SBA has a handy section on their website where you can investigate which options might be suitable for your needs.
Peer-to-Peer Lending
Another way on how to get funding for a small business is peer-to-per lending, It’s sometimes difficult to communicate your business idea to a banker. However, communicating it to your peers is quite a different idea. Many startups choose to take loans from their peers. However, instead of soliciting your college friend to lend you a few hundred dollars, you should try these websites.
1. Prosper
Prosper is an incredibly well-known peer-to-peer lending website. Prosper is a household name in the industry, with $3 billion in loans.
You’re provided with an interest rate determined by an assessment through this tool. You’ll need to create a loan list to let investors know what you’re about and what you’ll need the cash to fund.
If an investor agrees to fund your loan, you’ll get the money and establish the payment schedule. Rates begin at around 7 per cent, but they can rise to 35 per cent.
2. LendingClub
One of the ways on how to get funding for a small business is using LendingClub, If you’ve been running a business for a couple of years and need some capital, you should check out LendingClub. With LendingClub loans, you can finance by investors.
You must have two years of experience in business with at least $75,000 of annually generated sales and an excellent credit score.
There’s a five-year time limit to repay the loan. As with all loans, they will come with charges for interest and fees.
3. Upstart
Upstart was designed to assist young entrepreneurs to obtain funding even without financial or credit experience.
It accomplishes this by using an underwriting system that uses AI and non-traditional information to analyze and assess the applicant’s qualifications based on factors like the level of education, work record, location of residence, and so on.
The result is that their criteria are not as strict, and eligibility is determined solely by the potential for growth and forward momentum.
The loans themselves are capped at $50,000; Upstart could be an excellent option to consolidate high-interest debts or fund your company’s expansions.
4. Funding Circle
Another way on how to get funding for a small business is applying for Funding Circle, it connects your small business to investors. The loan ranges from $25,000 or $500,000, and you’ll talk with a loan officer who will guide you through the process, and you can receive funding in just two weeks.
Interest rates vary from six or 20 per cent, contingent on the speed you repay the loan. In addition, there are origination charges and late fees if you do not make payments.
5. Peerform
Peerform was intended to benefit small and large businesses as well as investors. The online portfolio builder lets investors build unique and diverse portfolios that match their financial goals and willingness to take the risk.
For those with 600 and 700 credit scores, it provides incredibly competitive rates, starting as lower as 6 per cent for loans with a term of less than $25,000.
Although it isn’t the best option to finance a complete company expansion or startup, it could be an excellent option to help a relatively healthy business repay loans, make a big purchase, or even cover operating expenses for some time.
Fintech funding options
Another way on how to get funding for a small business is fintech funding options, Fintech (fintech) lending companies that offer lines of credit or loans instead of the traditional government or bank loans. These funding alternatives are accessible and usually offer similar loan amounts and terms.
It is essential to look into a lender’s reputation, track record, application requirements, customer support and the terms of loans to determine the most suitable option. Below are just a handful of platforms that are currently in use.
ALSO APPLY: Top Scholarships For Psychology Undergraduate Students 2022
1. Kabbage
If you operate an eCommerce company using such platforms as eBay or Amazon, Kabbage could be an excellent choice for you. Instead of the standard collateral and credit score requirements for most loan options, Kabbage is more concerned about your standing as an online retailer.
It is still necessary to have well-documented information on your accounting and cash flow statements; however, the rest is determined by customer feedback and sales experience, turnover, and other digital indicators.
If you have a track record of selling online and the proper financial documentation, you can be granted unsecured advances in just some minutes.
2. OnDeck
One of the ways on how to get funding for a small business is applying for OnDeck, Like Kabbage, OnDeck gives loans based on different metrics that assess the business’s health. In this instance, they analyze the revenue you earn each year from your company to determine your eligibility.
They can also help you tailor the loan and payment to meet your requirements.
They also offer you the chance to apply for an advance loan or a credit line depending on your situation, meaning that you could be able to stay with one lender for all your financing needs.
3. PayPal
One of the best ways on how to get funding for a small business is using PayPal, PayPal provides both working capitals as well as traditional business loans. They offer loans based on the current company’s revenue on its website. The main drawback of the service is that you have to have sales currently made through PayPal or have the PayPal Business account to be eligible.
If you are already using PayPal, the funding process is rapid and does not require collateral and does not penalize you for having a poor credit score.
One disadvantage could be that taking out a loan made through PayPal will not help improve your credit score for your business, and therefore you’ll not be enhancing the chances of getting a new business loan in the future.
However, if you decide to stay in the PayPal community, it can increase your chances of obtaining additional funding via PayPal loans.
4. Lendio
One of the best ways on how to get startup funding for a small business is using Lendio, Instead of acting as a direct lender Lendio serves as an aggregate platform for financing. With a network of more than 300 lenders, including Kabbage and OnDeck, the company matches users with the right lender to meet their requirements.
Instead of analyzing every fintech company and filling out various applications, you could look over hundreds of them at once and fill out a straightforward application form.
The only disadvantage of using an intermediary such as Lendio will be the fact that money is likely to take longer to reach you. If you’re in the market for long-term financing that will also provide exceptional client service, Lendio should be considered.
Angel investment
One of the best ways on how to get funding for a small business is Angel Investment, An angel investor is usually an individual or group of people who have cash in their pockets and is willing to offer money for the startup or expansion.
The main advantage of investing in an angel investor to fund your company is that it’s safer than loans or venture capitalists as there is no obligation to pay back. Instead, an angel investor is searching for a part of your company and is prepared to take a look at the future in hopes of receiving any reward.
If you’re looking to let go of some control and get an investment from angel investors, here are some fantastic options.
1. Gust
Gust is an investment matching platform and an instrument that can increase your company’s appeal to investors.
Whatever the stage of your business’s startup, Gust helps you organize specific documentation, establish standards, discover weaknesses in your team, and many different ways to grow and enhance your business. To make it an easy choice for angel investors.
2. CircleUp
Another way on how to get funding for a small business is applying for funds using CircleUp, If you run an organization focusing on consumer and retail goods, CircleUp is the perfect platform to solicit financing. With their exclusive Helio machine-learning technology, CircleUp seeks to provide funds to many young entrepreneurs as possible.
The company takes publicly available partners and private information (provided through entrepreneurs). It combines the data into an understandable scenario that outlines the possibilities for an enterprise.
CircleUp can even help CircleUp discover business opportunities around an emerging trend. This could benefit business owners who may not know the best ways to utilize it.
With both equity and credit finance, CircleUp is a diverse choice for those seeking investment from angel investors. The company will also provide insight that you can utilize to improve their business.
3. Angel Capital Association
Imagine an organization like the Angel Capital Association (ACA) as the centre of an angel investment network that connects groups throughout North America.
A less virtual platform and more of a chance to build relationships with more than 18,000 angel investors. ACA was created and operates by bringing in angel groups instead of individuals.
Although it’s more traditional, it’s still a fantastic method to learn from investors in various sectors. It’s a fantastic way to grow your business, even if you do not seek money in the final.
Microloans
One of the ways on how to get funding for a small business is applying for funds using Microloans, Microloans are essentially business loans. In many ways, these small funding sources sparked the boom of fintech firms which eventually expanded to offer traditional loans in addition to microloans.
Although there are usually restrictions on how you can avail the microloan, it could be an excellent alternative if you require some capital to fund certain expenses, expansions or even projects.
1. Accion
Accion is a worldwide nonprofit organization that has the goal of helping small companies secure beneficial financing partnerships. Apart from the loans they offer, they offer advice and support services and continue to lead the way as thought leaders in financial inclusion.
In addition, they provide funding opportunities for growing companies working to improve the globalization of financial integration. Although it’s not a traditional microlender, it ensures that any investment or partnership follows a particular method and purpose. If this aligns with your organization’s mission, Accion may be an excellent choice for you.
2. LiftFund
ne of the best ways on how to get funding for a small business is applying for LiftFund, LiftFund is a multi-faceted company regarding loans. They offer microloans, but they also offer traditional and SBA alternatives.
This makes the number of loans available with the smallest of $500 and the most expensive one million dollars. This is a fantastic alternative for relatively new businesses that haven’t made enough revenue per month to qualify for traditional loans.
The only downside is that LiftFund is similar to the local SBA or credit unions. This implies that if they do not operate in your region, you’ll be left out and must find an alternative.
3. Kiva
Kiva is an excellent example of an online platform to get microloans. The application process is easy as well as the conditions are excellent and include US small-sized businesses permitted to get loans up to $15,000, with a low-interest rate of 0.
It is possible to invite your family and friends to with the cost of financing and then organize a fundraiser for 30 days to get funding through Kiva. Kiva lending group.
After receiving the money, you have three years to pay it back. You can use Kiva as a marketing tool to grow your customer base and speed up the process of repaying.
4. Opportunity Fund
The Opportunity Fund operates strictly as a microloan provider for small businesses owned by low-and-moderate-income immigrants, people of color, and women.
Its mission as an organization is to foster the growth of low-income communities by helping entrepreneurs who traditionally aren’t able to obtain financing. Suppose you’re in any of these categories and have been unable to obtain a bank loan.
If you need alternative financing, then a microloan loan from the Opportunity Fund may be an alternative. Opportunity Fund is one of the best ways on how to get funding for a small business.
Venture capital
If you have an initial enthusiasm for your business and a plan for long-term expansion, you might want to look into venture capital financing. You could use the SBA investment search tool to locate prospective investors or use one of the platforms listed below to promote your business and meet venture capitalists.
1. FundersClub
One of the best ways on how to get funding for a small business is using FundersClub, FundersClub was among the first crowdfunding platforms for venture capitalists online, initially arising from YCombinator in 2012. Businesses may be solely supported by a specific investor or be included with similar businesses to form a diversified fund that they invest in.
Although it’s an excellent opportunity to reach hundreds of accredited investors, it’s not easy to get on the platform. It isn’t easy. They will only take about 2% of applicants. They also recommend that a founder endorse your company before submitting. However, with a compelling pitch and the desire to build relationships, it’s a feasible alternative for small-sized companies.
2. MicroVentures
MicroVentures is another original venture capital platform on the internet with a long track record of allowing funding to startups in the early stages.
While initially, they only provided traditional venture capital and angel investment options to accredited investors, MicroVentures has adapted its system to make investments available to anyone.
This development is especially beneficial for entrepreneurs looking to raise funds because it means that more investors are looking to invest. This is one of the best ways on how to get funding for a small business.
However, this kind of openness isn’t without its flaws since there are a lot of businesses looking to invest in the website. It’s easy to be lost in the crowd if your business doesn’t possess a compelling pitch or a way to stand out. As another option to attract potential investors, MicroVentures can be an option worth considering, even if to expand your possibilities.
Crowdfunding sites
Another way on how to get funding for a small business is crowdfunding sites, You can create promotional materials on crowdfunding sites and then create a web page for your company or project to solicit financial support from people who visit the website. Each website is different, and you should study the small print as you choose which one is the best for you.
1. Indiegogo
Another alternative that you can use on how to get funding for a small business is Indiegogo. Like other crowdfunding platforms, you can create a profile, write your story, create goals for fundraising, and solicit donations. But Indiegogo’s fee structure differs from other crowdfunding sites. It’s not an all-or-nothing model. Indiegogo gets 9.9% of profits even if you don’t achieve your goals and then 4 per cent from your profits if you meet the goal.
2. Kickstarter
The most popular crowdfunding platform available; since its launch on the 9th of September 2009, the site has raised 1.7 billion dollars and has funded 85,000 projects.
Like most crowdfunding websites, businesses have a profile page that describes the business and sets a fundraising target. Donors have assured something in return, such as getting the chance to be among the first people who test out the brand new product.
But it’s an all or nothing option on Kickstarter. That is, you must meet your fundraising goals to retain the funds. If you fail, your donors receive their money returned. Even if you achieve your target, Kickstarter takes five per cent as a cost.
It’s a well-known name. However, it also hosts numerous campaigns. Everything from business ventures to art enterprises is competing for money, and you’ll need to look at the website to determine if it’s the best match for your company.
3. Causes
Another alternative that you can use on how to get funding for a small business is Causes, Causes are specifically designed to help fund political, social and cultural causes ideal for nonprofit organizations. It’s completely free to join and functions as an online social network for individuals looking to improve the world. It’s not just a way to raise funds but also a fantastic way to make connections with donors and partners, and even potential employees.
4. Patreon
The subscription-based model could be more suitable if you own an online media company like a podcast web series or blog.
It’s a good thing Patreon was developed to function as a platform for crowdfunding, specifically for creators of digital media. Instead of a one-time capital or financing round, Patreon lets you set up levels at various price points for your subscribers to sign up.
You can give exclusive content, merchandise access, or other items that increase value or quality, allowing users to conduct tests constantly.
It’s a fantastic way for building and directly connecting to your customers while working on other social media channels beyond your Patreon. Be sure to adhere to a set schedule. Otherwise, your customers could find a different place for their cash.
5. Fundable
Imagine Fundable as a hybrid of Kickstarter as well as traditional financing. Instead of publishing a single item and service on the site, it is possible to market your entire business on the website designed to attract investment from venture capitalists and other accredited investors. It is still possible to post updates on your timeline and an overall goal for funding, but you need to present your entire business strategy.
However, it’s an ongoing pitch with a little more cost on your side. Unlike most crowdsourcing websites that usually charge fees, Fundable requires monthly fees to remain with the site. In addition, it functions as an all-or-nothing funding system, meaning you must meet your goals or risk losing the entire amount.
Pitch Competitions
Looking for a method to gain access to some capital for your business? Enter a contest. Many contests are running during the entire year. If you missed your deadline, mark the website for a chance next time.
1. Hatch Pitch
Another alternative that you can use on how to get funding for a small business is Hatch Pitch, If you’re creating a new product or service based on cutting-edge technology, you may showcase your ideas during Hatch Pitch, an event that occurs every year during the South by Southwest (SXSW) event. You will have just the opportunity to present your idea to the judges.
2. TechCrunch Disrupt
Another way that you can use on how to get funding for a small business is TechCrunch Disrupt, Traditionally, it is an in-person event. Disrupt is now entirely digital for the year. TechCrunch sponsors it. The event is focused on getting advice from tech entrepreneurs and networking to develop your business.
You’ll be able to network with people who work in similar fields, pitch your venture to founders and investors, and learn from the top and most innovative people from Silicon Valley.
While it’s not a traditional pitch competition, this is an excellent opportunity for new companies to establish themselves and know the founders.
3. WebSummit PITCH
PITCH gives companies that have received under $3 million of funding to fight the odds and present their business ideas. The only requirement you must meet to be eligible for the competition is to be a participant in the WebSummit Startup Program before applying for the contest, which you can apply for through the link below. The main advantage of being among the 135 companies that can participate is that you’ll get plenty of exposure to investors and lenders even if you do not win.
It’s also a way to ensure that you’ve honed your pitch and had plenty of practice in presenting it before investors. You must jump through some hurdles to be in the game, but worth the effort, especially if you’re a startup in the early stages.
Bootstrapping methods
Bootstrapping is the long-standing tradition of doing just about anything you can think of to locate money for your business. Although many of the financing options listed here are possible, you’ll most likely be doing some form of bootstrapping to build your business for success. Here are the things you should think about. Below are ways to get funding help for new business using bootstrapping methods:
1. Family members and friends
Another alternative that you can use on how to get funding for a small business is Family members and friends, This is a tried and tested method: the people you love usually trust you and place their cash where they put their money. Here are some ideas for managing fundraising by family and friends.
2. Business line of credit
The term “line of credit” refers to a set amount of money that you can take out when you require it and pay back if you do not. It differs from a loan in that it doesn’t need to utilize. However, you could utilize it to buffer your expenses or as an alternate option if you face cash flow problems caused due to late payments from clients or unplanned expenses or simply because of seasonal fluctuations. They are also an excellent way to create or strengthen your business credit score. This option is for those who require urgent cash and have decent credit.
3. Using your savings/selling assets
Another alternative that you can use on how to get funding for a small business is using your savings/selling assets, Although it is also known in the context as “betting on the farms” and could be dangerous, it’s an excellent option to utilize your savings or sell some of your current assets to use the proceeds to finance your business.
5. Using other income to fuel your business
Many people are working an extra job until they can take on full-time work to run the business they own. A room you rent in your home through an online platform such as Airbnb is an excellent instance.
