How to Obtain Financing

You have the business idea, you've got the perfect location in mind, and now you're wondering how to pull it all together. Financing is the step that stumps most soon-to-be entreprenuers, but with a well-thought out plan and a little (okay, maybe a lot) of organization, obtaining money is a goal well within reach.

First Steps
The first thing you need to do is to gather as much information about the business as possible. This list will get you oriented to documents and infromation that a lender might be interested in.

Research
This page will further assist you in what to research as you're getting started, as well as where to find some of this information.

Write a Business Plan
A lender or investor will almost always want to see a business plan. This is documentation that you have done your homework, you understand what you're getting into, and you know what work needs to be done. It shows a lender financial projections, probability of success, and your dedication to the venture.

Financial Forms
Looking for forms that will help you prepare for a visit with the banker? Here you can find a Financing Preparation Checklist, Personal and Business Balance Sheets, a Cash Flow, and an Income/Expense Statement.

To see a list of common financing programs and other methods of obtaining money for your business, read our Financing Programs document (pdf file).