Financing Options for Business Start-up and Expansion
By Jean Murray, About.com Guide to US Business Law / Taxes
Financing is the lifeblood of businesses; as a business owner, you need funding for start-up, for expansion, and to weather tough financial times. In this section, you will learn about start-up funding, creative financing sources, business credit, Small Business Administration loan programs. You can also find help with the loan process and preparing your business plan to improve your ability to get a loan.
- Financing Sources for Business Start-up and Expansion
- Small Business Administration Loan and Financing Sources
- How to Get a Business Loan
- Establishing Business Credit
Financing Sources for Business Start-up and Expansion
Here are some creative financing sources you might be able to use for start-up funds, to expand your business, or to pay off loans in tough financial times.
- 5 Ways to Finance Your Business in Tough Financial Times
- How to Use Trade Credit for Start-up or Expansion
- Use a Revolving Credit Line for Business Financing
- Sell Your Accounts Receivable for Extra Cash
- Equipment Leasing as a Financing Source
- Tips on Borrowing from Family and Friends
Small Business Administration Loan and Financing Sources
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has a variety of loan guarantee programs for which you might be eligible. Loan programs include those targeted for women, minorities, veterans, and businesses in disaster areas and economically disadvantaged areas. Check out this list to find a program to help you finance your start-up or expansion or to re-build your business.
- Learn About SBA Loan Guarantee Programs
- Find an SBA Preferred or Certified Lender
- SBA 7(a) Loans - the Most Popular SBA Program
- Emergency Loans From the Recovery Act
- 504 Loan Program for Fixed Asset Purchases / Economic Development Areas
- SBA 8(a) Program to Help Disadvantaged Businesses Compete
- SBIC Private Loan Program Financing
- SBA Disaster Recovery Assistance for Businesses
- Patriot Express Loan Program for Veterans
- Dealer Floor Plan Loan Guarantees for Vehicle Dealers
- Should the SBA Be Doing More to Help Small Businesses?
How to Get a Business Loan
If you need funds for business start-up, expansion, or cash flow, you need to know how to get a business loan. Learn what personal records you will need and how to prepare a business plan.
- What Do I Need to Get a Business Loan?
- What Business Records Do I Need for a Loan?
- Typical Documents Included in a Business Loan
- Get Your Personal Financial Papers in Order Before You Talk to a Bank
- Getting a Business Loan from a Credit Union
- Prepare a Business Plan to Help Get Financing
Establishing Business Credit
When you start your business, you will need to establish business credit, so you don't have to use your personal credit to get business loans or other business financing. Here are some tips on business credit.
