The best thing to start looking for small business finances is with SBA. They have all kinds of financial assistance and grant programs for small business owners. Assuming there is a need for financing from the commercial market outside the SBA PurView, which is described here are some basic about the options available for small business owners.
The most fundamental question that needs to be contemplated by business owners is whether to choose to finance debt or equity financing. Each has the pros and cons and sub-divisions further in terms of financing. Which is more suitable depending on factors such as types of business, age, cash flow and credit rating and history of the owner.
Financial debt can be in the form of loans, bonds or credit lines from banks or other lenders, or even simple IOU. This is usually the best choice when business projects are very specific and have a well-defined timeline. Borrowers need to install something as collateral as a form of security.
Ranking and credit history The owner will have a major impact on the ability to secure small business financing. This business must also have a pretty good cash flow (or projects cash flow) to meet the payment schedule. It is important for the owner to do some business planning to find out a decent payment period based on cash flow.
With equity financing, the owner offers ownership of investors in return for cash. It has certain losses such as losing control, because investors want to be part of the decision-making process. But unlike small business loans, equity investment does not need to be paid back with interest, making it easier to run a business.
Equity options are feasible for long-term and long-term financing needs that do not have a special time line and directly for ROI. To note that equity investors are looking for higher returns, even if it is after a relatively longer delay. The owner tends to regain full control in the short term and maybe even in the long run.
Equity investments can be in the form of individual investments made personally by owners, friends, family, colleagues or angel investors. It can be funded by the venture capital company. Equity financing is more focused on the potential of the success of the project and does not require the type of guarantee or collateral needed for debt financing.
As mentioned above, decisions about debt vs equity will depend on the type of business, the current situation and the credibility of the owner. Too much debt is not good for business, and there is no fully control of equity investors. The right balance needs to be found, and this debt equity ratio is different for various types of industries.
In related notes, it is better to have more options on how to use it to maximize the impact of financing on business. For example, instead of buying equipment directly, it might be useful to consider leasing finance equipment. There are more things like that need to be considered, and the best is to consult with lawyers or trusted bankers for more information about the appropriate options for small business finance.