How Exactly Do Businesses Raise Capital?
It may come as little surprise that one thing most business owners struggle with is raising capital.
You may have a winning idea for a project, a passion for the work, and plenty of audience support, but if you can’t get through the capital-raising process, your plans are only hypothetical. For some, it may leave you wondering if you should start a business at all.
If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to how to raise capital for a business, you’re in luck. Here are five ways to seek funding, some more traditional than others.
1. Raise Capital Through Bootstrapping
If you’re looking for short-term funding for smaller business ventures or expansions, you may be able to get by with your own money. This saves you from the hassle of finding other sources or paying back loans, making it one of the most efficient ways of raising capital for businesses. Of course, this depends on the financial resources available to you: if you have enough saved, you’ll have no trouble with the funding.
However, if you don’t have access to enough money, you may also be able to use a personal credit card. Make sure to do this with care and opt for a no- or low-interest APR credit card.
2. Ask Friends and Family
You may not have the resources to fund your growth, but you can still benefit from a less complex funding source if you can get help from friends and family.
This option comes with some drawbacks, however. You’ll need to make sure your friend or family knows you may not be able to return their investment, and you should also make sure you both agree about their involvement in your business, if they have any involvement at all.
3. Launch a Crowdfunding Campaign
A successful crowdfunding campaign can help you connect with like-minded people interested in supporting your project. It’s also a lifesaver for entrepreneurs who want to avoid the options below.
You’ll need to decide between different types of crowdfunding to support your goals, and you’ll also need to invest some time in creating and running your campaign—which in some cases can take away from the time you need for your business.
4. Ask for a Bank Loan
The most traditional option on this list, bank loans are a good choice for entrepreneurs with good credit and in good financial standing. Remember that your bank may want collateral to guarantee the loan, and you’ll need to make sure the details of the loan work for your needs. Keep in mind that this may not be the best option if you need cash fast.
5. Reach Out to Angel Investors
Angel investors provide business capital in exchange for something else, usually ownership equity. Most of these investors will have a net worth in excess of $1 million or an annual income in excess of $200,000, making them an excellent resource if you need larger sums of money.
Find Your Path to Business Capital
At the end of the day, your choice in terms of business funding is up to you. Now that you know how to raise capital, take some time to decide which option matches the needs of your business and your current finances.
If you’ve recently eased into entrepreneurship, the initial steps of funding and growing your business may seem overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to check out our other posts for more insights, or to accelerate your business with our personalized services.