1. Business & Finance

Financing Options for Business Start-up and Expansion

By , About.com Guide

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.
  1. How to Get a Business Loan
  2. Financing Sources for Business Start-up and Expansion
  3. Establishing Business Credit
  4. Small Business Administration Loan and Financing Sources

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.

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.

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.

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.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.