Many individuals have a dream to start their own business. They have a business idea and want to make their dreams come true by starting their entrepreneurial adventure. Ideas, business sense and time are all required to make this happen but a major factor in starting a business is money. A lot of money is needed to jumpstart your ideas.
Some people are blessed with already having startup funds either by saving, inheritance or previous success. However, for most of us, it is required to take on a source of debt to start your business. Below are examples of different sources to help you in your journey.
Loan
The most popular form of debt for a business to start is a loan. Most loans are an offered product from a bank but some people take on loans from investors.
When an individual or business offers funds for you to borrow, it can be referred to as a loan. When someone does this they typically ask for a percentage of ownership in the business. They are taking a risk on your idea and think you will succeed so ask for this in return.
If you do not have individuals lending you money, you must go to a bank to acquire a loan. There are many things you need to consider when you apply for a business loan. In order to be approved for a loan, you and your business need to have good credit. If you do not have good credit than you may not be approved or you may receive a high interest rate. In some cases, business owners have people co-sign the loan in order to allow them to be approved. It is also important that you evaluate if your business should even take on the debt. Taking on debt is a major responsibility and can affect your credit if not paid back in a timely manner.
Credit Cards
An easier form of funding for a business is a credit card. The total dollar amount will be smaller than a loan but it can help you afford smaller start up costs. The application process is a lot easier than applying for a loan, however the standards as to which you can be approved are similar. You still need to have good credit. It is best to shop around for the best interest rate and rewards to make it the most economical.
Line of Credit
Another form of debt that can be acquired to start your business is a line of credit. A line of credit is basically a combination of a loan and a credit card. You are approved for a sum of money and you can tap into it/pay it back however you like. An advantage to this product is its flexibility. Your business can be approved for a certain amount but you do not necessarily need to use it. This means that you only spend the money that you need to and aren’t tempted to spend the whole lump sum.
Overall, there are many resources out there for businesses to tap into. If you have a business idea and want to follow your dream, look into any of the products above to help make it happen.
