Personal Savings
Be conservative in your spending, so you can build a startup nest egg.
Personal Loans
If you own your home, you could take out a second mortgage or an equity loan. Some people use their credit cards (not usually advisable due to the usurious interest rate). Another option is to cash in a retirement/investment account.
Student Loans
If allowable, maximize the amount of your student loans and put the extra into savings.
Loans from Family and Friends
Avoid potential discomfort and resentment by designing a loan contract that clearly delineates the terms and repayment schedule.
Private Investor Loans
Most private investors want to make a healthy return either in dollars or a percentage of the business. This route requires research, correspondence, proposals and a refined business plan.
Bank Loans
The amount loaned is usually based upon your assets and banks require a complete business plan.
SBA Loans
The SBA offers several types of funding from guaranteeing up to 85 percent of a commercial bank loan to directly loaning money.
Grants
Many organizations provide grants to people who fall within the parameters of special interest groups, as either the business owner or the market you plan to serve. At a minimum, this route requires research and proposals.
Partnerships
This affiliation can vary from a "silent" partner (more of an investor) to someone who works alongside you to build your business.
Community Development Corporation (CDC) Investors
These are local organizations that partner with government, business owners and community leaders to provide economic assistance (e.g., loans, grants, consulting, subsidized office spare). This is usually geared toward specific populations or the enhancement of a particular area of the city.
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