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Finding Capital
Raising capital is the most basic of
all business activities, but it may not be easy; in fact, it is often a
complex and frustrating process. However, if you have studied and
planned effectively, raising money for your business will go as smoothly
as possible. There are several sources to consider when looking for financing. It is important to explore all of your options before making a decision. Personal savings: The primary source of capital for most new businesses comes from savings and other personal resources. While credit cards are often used to finance business needs, there are usually better options available, even for very small loans. Friends and relatives: Many entrepreneurs look to private sources such as friends and family when starting out in a business venture. Often, money is loaned interest-free or at a low interest rate, which can be beneficial when getting started. Banks and credit unions: The most common sources of funding, banks and credit unions, will provide a loan if you can show that your business proposal is sound. Angel Investors and Venture capital firms: These individuals and firms help expanding companies grow in exchange for equity or partial ownership. A source of venture capital is the SBA's Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) Program. SBICs, licensed and regulated by the SBA, are privately owned and managed investment firms that use their own capital, plus funds borrowed at favorable rates with an SBA guarantee, to make venture capital investments in small businesses. Additional Sources of Capital
Borrowing Money It is often said that small businesses face difficulty borrowing money, but this is not necessarily true. Banks make money by lending money. However, the inexperience of many small business owners in financial matters often prompts banks to deny loan requests. Requesting a loan when you are not properly prepared suggests to your lender that you are a high risk.To successfullly obtain a loan, you must be prepared and organized. You must know exactly how much money you need, why you need it, and how you will pay it back. You must be able to convince your lender that you are a good credit risk. Types of Business Loans Terms of loans vary from lender to lender, but there are two basic types: short-term and long-term. Generally, a short-term loan has a maturity of up to one year. These include working capital loans, accounts receivable loans and lines of credit. Long-term loans have maturities greater than one year but usually less than seven years. Real estate and equipment loans may have maturities of up to 25 years. Long-term loans are used for major business expenses such as purchasing real estate and facilities, construction, durable equipment, furniture and fixtures, vehicles, etc. SBA loan programs are intended to encourage long-term small business financing, but actual loan maturities are based on the ability to repay, the purpose of the loan proceeds, and the useful life of the assets financed. However, maximum loan maturities have been established: twenty-five years for real estate; up to ten years for equipment (depending on the useful life of the equipment); and generally up to seven years for working capital. Short-term loans are also available through the SBA to help small businesses meet their short term and cyclical working capital needs. How to Write a Loan Proposal Approval of your loan request depends on how well you present yourself, your business, and your financial needs to a lender. Remember, lenders want to make loans, but they must make loans they know will be repaid. The best way to improve your chances of obtaining a loan is to prepare a written proposal. A well-written loan proposal contains: General Information
Business Description
Management Profile
Market Information
Financial Information
How Your Loan Request Will Be Reviewed When reviewing a loan request, the lender is primarily concerned about repayment. To help determine its likelihood, many loan officers will order a copy of your business credit report from a credit-reporting agency. Therefore, you should work with these agencies to make sure they present an accurate picture of your business. Using the credit report and the information you have provided, the lending officer will consider the following issues:
SBA Financial Programs The SBA offers a variety of financing options for small businesses.Whether you are looking for a long-term loan for machinery and equipment, a general working capital loan, a revolving line of credit, or a microloan, the SBA has a financing program to fit your needs. For additional in-depth information on the financing programs available through the SBA visit the Financing Your Business section of the SBA's main web site. |
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