| HOW TO RAISE MONEY FOR STARTING
YOUR OWN BUSINESS The task of raising money for a business is not as difficult as most people seem to think. This is especially true when you have an idea that can make you and your backers rich. Actually, there's more money available for new business ventures than there are good business ideas. A very important rule of the game to learn: Anytime you want to raise money, your first move should be to put together a proper prospectus. This prospectus should include a resume of your background, your education, training, experience and any other personal qualities that might be counted as an asset to your potential success. It's also a good idea to list the various loans which you've had in the past, what they were for, and your history in paying them off. You'll have to explain in detail how the money you want is going to be used. If it's for an existing business, you'll need a profit and loss record for at least the proceeding six months, and a plan showing how this additional money will produce greater profits. If it's a new business, you'll have to show your proposed business plan, your marketing research and projected costs, as well as anticipated income figures, with a summary for each year, over at least a three year period. It will be advantageous to you to base your cost estimates high, and your income projections on minimal returns. This will enable you to "ride through" those extreme "up and downs" inherent in any start-up business. You should also describe what makes your business unique - how it differs from your competition, and the opportunities for expansion or secondary products. This prospectus will have to state precisely what you're offering the investor in return for the use of his money. He'll want to know the percentage of interest you're willing to pay, and whether that will be paid monthly, quarterly, or on an annual basis. Are you offering a certain percentage of the profits? A percentage of the business? A seat on your board of directors? Start thinking about the idea of inviting investors to share in your business as silent partners. Think about the idea of obtaining finance for a primary business by arranging financing for another business that will support the start up, establishment and development of the primary business. Consider the feasibility of merging with a company that's already organised, and with facilities that are compatible or related to your needs. Give some thought to the possibilities of getting the people supplying your production equipment to guarantee the loan you need for start up capital. Remember, there are thousands upon thousands of ways to obtain business start up capital. This is truly the age of creative financing. Disregard the stories you hear of "tight money" and start making phone calls, talking to people, and making appointments to discuss your plans with the people who have money to invest. There's more money now than there's ever been for new business investment. The problem is that most beginning "business builders" don't know what to believe or which way to turn for help. They tend to believe the stories of "tight money" and they set aside their plans for a business of their own until a time when start up money might be easier to find. The truth is this: Now is the time to make your move. Now is the time to act. The person with a truly viable business plan, and determination to succeed, will make use of every possible idea that can be imagined. And the ideas I've suggested here should serve as just a few of the unlimited sources of monetary help available and waiting. It's always a good idea to let them know you're willing to pay a "finders fee" if you can be directed to the right investor. Professional people, such as doctors and dentists, are known to have a tendency to join occupational investment groups. The next time you talk with your doctor or dentist, give him a prospectus and explain your plan. He may want to invest on his own, or perhaps set up an appointment for you to talk with the manager of his investment group. Either way, you win because when you're looking for money, it's essential that you get the word out to as many potential investors as possible. Don't overlook the possibilities of the Small Business Investment Companies in your area. Look them up in your telephone book under 'Investment Services'. These companies exist for the sole purpose of lending money to businesses which they feel have a good chance of making money. In many instances, they trade their help for a small interest in your company. Many places have Business Development Commissions whose goal is to assist in the establishment and growth of new businesses. Not only do they offer favourable taxes and business expertise, most also offer money or facilities to help a new business get started. Your Chamber of Commerce is the place to check for further information on this idea. Industrial banks are usually much more amenable to making business loans than regular banks, so be sure to check out these institutions in your area. Insurance companies are prime sources of long term business capital, but each company varies its policies regarding the type of business it will consider. Check your local agent for the name and address of the person to contact. It's also quite possible to get the directors of another company to invest in your business. Look for a company that can benefit from your product or service. Also, be sure to check at your public library for available foundation grants. These can be the final answer to all your money needs if your business is perceived to be related to the objectives and activities of the foundation Finally, there's the Money Broker or finder. These are the people who take your prospectus and circulate it with various known lenders or investors. They always require an up front or retainer fee, and there's no way they can guarantee to get you the loan or the money you want. There are many very good money brokers, and there are some that are not so good. They all take a percentage of the gross amount that's finally procured for your needs. The important thing is to check them out fully; find out about the successful loans or investment plans they've arranged, and what kind of investor contacts they have, all of this before you put up any front money or pay any retainer fees. There are many ways to raise money, from staging garage sales to selling stocks. Don't make the mistake of thinking that the only place you can find the money you need is through the bank or finance company. |
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