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MONEY TO START SMALL BUSINESS

John Heartfield Has Answers

Where Can I Get Money To Start My Small Business?

In one form or another, this is usually the first question that small business owners ask. Where can I get money to start my business? You have options.

Banks do open their pockets for money for business startups.

Many potential business owners think they should start their quest for start-up capital at larger banks. They believe larger banks have more cash on hand and are more likely to make loans.

I suggest potential business owners go to smaller banks. I've found it's much easier to establish a personal relationship with managers of smaller banks such as Northfield Bank. These small banks are just as hungry for your business as you are for customers. Often these banks have an SBA facilitator on hand to help you with the Small Business Administration Loan paperwork. SBA loans are a great way to go. Make an appointment with eCurtain Media to learn how to prepare to speak with a bank loan officer.

I've heard many experts say a good place to look for money is to ask for a loan from your friends or family. This method has several potential pitfalls. First, you must make sure that any family or friend investor understands that it is your business and they can have little or no say about the day-to-day operation of the business once they've provided you with the cash. Also, you must show your family or friends that your business concept has an excellent chance of success (See how to write a business plan). Family and friends (unless it's someone who loves you so much they'll simply give you cash as a gift) should expect to get their money back with a reasonable return on their investment.

Small business owners can get money for business needs in the form of "micro loans." Micro loans range in the vicinity of $5,000.00 to $50,000.00. Realistically, you're probably looking at a $5,000.00 loan. However, that can be an excellent start if you just need a computer, a fax machine, and some other office equipment.

If you're a minority or a woman, you have more options (in the form of grants). However, get ready to fill out a pile of forms.

This is just an overview. It's such an important topic I'll write more about it in the very near future.

I could list several websites where grants are available. However, I'd rather offer this advice. Find a great simple tutorial on how to use Google and then study it. The vast majority of web users have no idea how to use Google effectively. This is a small business requisite. You put yourself way ahead of the competition when you can effectively research loans, grants, your competition, your demographics, and so much more.

In the meantime, let me close with this invaluable piece of advice: Never Joke About Money In Any Business Situation.

In business, no one finds jokes about money funny and it can cost you.

Recently, I heard this true story. A small business owner was closing on a loan from a bank. This was money that was crucial to the owner's business.

Minutes before signing a $60,000.00 loan agreement, the bank officer asked, "Are you sure this is going to be enough to cover your expenses?"

The business owner joked, "Well, $80,000.00 would be much nicer."

Believing the business owner did not have a real handle on what he was planning to spend, the bank officer canceled the loan.

Not funny.

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      Updated: 8/19/2021