What are some ways to finance a small business?

Well I guess it depends on the type of business and your business plan. But assuming you have a pretty solid plan there are tons of ways to get money from places. Their is always small business loans from banks, probably the easiest way is to get a business credit line. My buddy walked into chase and got approved for 25,000 credit limit for the business he wanted to start. Though credit isn’t the best way to finance a new business, it will do if you don’t have any other options. Then there is always the angel investors. Basically just people who have a lot of money who invest in start up businesses. Same thing as a loan basically, just different terms of agreement usually. My friends Mom is in the business of investing in small businesses. So they are out there, you just have to find them. Just out of curiosity, what kind of business are you thinking of starting?

Barter (what you know/can offer for what they know (consulting time) or have (office supplies, etc). Would need to know more about what your business is to offer more targeted advice, but in the mean time I highly suggest you pick up a copy of the Guerrilla Marketing manual.

You can also get good advice and sometimes loans from the Small Business Administration. Any financing will require having a well fleshed-out business plan.

Venture Capitol is also an option for many people, but again- as others have said you need a rock-solid business plan. You probably also need an effective presentation with some visual aids.

You can always look for investors or take out a business loan based on the business and the business plan completion.

Most small businesses use consumer credit to get rolling. Apply for the best credit cards for which you can qualify, and use that capital to launch yourself. Be advised, even if you’re a corporation, you’re still liable for any personal credit defaults you suffer.

You can also:
Look for small business grants. Get into industries that the state or federal government will subsidize.

Take on investors.

Take on partners (you have an 80% chance of failing, so pick partners with thick skins).

Seek loans from small investors, rather than banks. Local or regional businessmen who “flip” properties or who run small business consultancies are often looking for sub-$25,000 investment opportunities.

Sell something you own.

Move the business to China and our government will loan you a huge amount of money and give you enormous tax breaks.

Win the lottery
Ask Grandma/Mom/Aunt/Uncle
Try the Small Business Administration
Ask Bill Gates
File for a Government grant
Save up money from your regular job