How to Finance a Business

Before leaping into a new business opportunity, most have the challenge of securing working capital and need to finance a business purchase. Although it’s not an easy task, it’s essential to getting your idea off the ground. It’s also not one to take lightly, as the decision you make will stick with you for years to come, even after your business starts making a profit. You can set yourself up for a win by researching the different avenues available and deciding the best action for your specific needs. Read on as we evaluate four of the more common options owners consider when deciding how to finance a business.

How to Finance a Business

When it comes to business financing, there isn’t a right or wrong answer. Business owners must take their situation into account to plan for the best possible outcome.

1. Small Business Loan/SBA Loan

Last year, 43% of small businesses applied for a loan from a small business lender. Bank loans and lines of credit are popular business financing choices for a good reason. They’re a reliable source for a short-term loan that allows you to grow. At the same time, you want to be selective when choosing a lender. Banks, private equity firms, microlenders, and other venture capitalists are concerned with getting their money back, so they tend to charge high interest rates. If you have a good credit history, you can do some shopping around to find better rates. Also, be sure to apply for loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration. They tend to have more flexible terms and lower interest rates to specifically finance a business purchase transaction.

2. Angel Investor

We commonly see business owners acquire capital from an angel investor in exchange for an equity position. This capital is often sought by businesses that lack the cash flow needed to obtain a traditional bank loan to finance a business. It’s less risky than taking a business credit card or a short-term loan. It comes with other setbacks, however, that some aren’t willing to look past. Equity financing means forfeiting some control to a partial owner and granting this person a say in the business operations. Additionally, teh angel investor will receive a share of profits if you decide to sell. For this reason, you’ll want to make sure you can work well with the angel investor for the long haul.

3. Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding is an increasingly popular option, especially amongst business startups. Rather than acquiring a business loan from one financial institution, some business owners choose to raise small amounts of funds from a large number of people. Over 600 crowdfunding platforms exist, where billions of dollars are raised annually. Typically, the more successful crowdfunding campaigns offer something in exchange for a donation. Whether that’s exclusive member access or a free product/service, it’s good to come up with ways to incentivize your donors.

4. Personal Investment/Borrow From Friends and Family

The last business financing option we’ll touch on is actually where you should start. Before seeking external funding to finance a business, it’s best to try to raise as much as you can on your own. You should never put up your entire personal savings because you never know when an emergency will arise, and you’ll need cash on hand. Again, lines of credit can be costly with high interest rates. If you can cover a lot of business needs yourself or seek a low-interest loan from friends and family, you can save in the long run.

Acquiring a small business loan is a big step in the business buying process. You’ll need to make sure you can afford the monthly payments and have a good enough credit score to be accepted for a loan program. Indiana Business Advisors can help you prepare, so you’re not going into the process alone. Get in touch for more information on business financing!

SOURCE: Sunbelt Network

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Edwin Mysogland, CVA, CEPA, CMEA
Managing Partner, Indiana Business Advisors

Indiana Business Advisors is the top business brokerage firm in the state of Indiana and one of the largest in the Midwest. Whether you are looking to a buy a business or sell a business, Indiana Business Advisors has the expertise and experience to get the deal completed. With over 40 years of history and 2200 businesses sold all over the United States, our team will work diligently to achieve your professional and personal goals.