Financing Your Small Business

When you first start a business or if you want to take it to the next level, finding money to fund your company and its operations can prove difficult. But where there is a will, there is a way. When banks aren’t lining up to offer you credit with the lowest interest rates, alternative financing may help your business take its next step.

Partner Up

If you are willing to give something in return for financing, you may find a variety of options. You might, for instance, take on a joint venture partner or angel investor, trading a percentage of your business for needed cash. These sources typically want to see at least a small track record before they invest.

Or you might consider casting a wider net for smaller but more numerous amounts in return for, perhaps, a product or service. You might tap a crowd-funding site for small individual donations in return for future restaurant meals or product discounts. Or if you have the receivables to quickly pay a higher-interest loan in full, an online lender might be an option.

Use Leverage

If your company has predictable sales, you could use factoring to find the money your business needs. Factoring companies typically buy future accounts receivable at a discount. In return, they provide funds in days instead of the months it can take to receive money owed by your customers. Your business could also lease back equipment it owns to secure cash and lease new equipment instead of buying to free up money.

As a last resort, you may tap your personal cash sources. While they aren’t ideal options, personal loans and credit cards can provide the short-term money your business needs. Be sure, though, that you don’t help your business at the expense of your personal creditworthiness.

Remember Protection

As you explore ways to raise cash for your company, don’t forget to protect your ability to pay back that cash. Depending on your business structure, you may be able to use tax-advantaged dollars to provide you and any employees with health, disability income and life insurance, while even offering a qualified retirement plan. Your financial professional can show you how.