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How to finance a small business

determine than your chances of success).


What is your commitment to your business?
Banks measure commitment by how much you are prepared to invest in your own business. Banks rarely offer more than a third of the total financing required.
The amount of money you have assembled from personal and alternative sources will measure your commitment.
(Also, your Financial Proposal should reflect that you do not intend to take managerial draws in the early operation.


From the bank's point of view, why should they pay your "salary" to manage a high-risk proposition?)


What is your character? Banks measure your past experience, the length of residency, length of periods of employment, and similar factors to determine if you are the type of person who is stable and reliable.




As mentioned, banks are not a likely source of money early in the operation of a business. This does not mean that you shouldn't apply -it simply means you should have realistic expectations. Banks want to see a Financial Proposal that responds to their needs. The Proposal includes:


Your Business Plan to illustrate how thoroughly and realistically you have prepared for your business;


Specific Financial Proposal(s), each summarizing




the specific amounts you need,


the specific purpose of each amount,


the type of loans you are seeking, e.g. operating or term. (in some cases if you are purchasing equipment or some physical asset, the item you are purchasing may provide some of the collateral needed, but not all). The bank doesn't really care to repossess and liquidate items to recover their money, so be prepared for a low percentage collateral rate


your payback plan




Even if you initially do not succeed, you have at least established contacts in several banks.
Thus, later (with a business "track record"), you may seek more financing. The initial impression you made, and the background knowledge that the loan officer has about your project will be useful

5. GOVERNMENT

It is worthwhile to check out all three levels of government - national, regional and local - to determine whether any small business support programs exist in your area.
Often, governments will set up an agency that is a "lender of last resort". That is, if regular lenders have rejected you, you may be able to apply for support from the agency, which could have less stringent tests for lending, or more favourable payback terms. Treat the application with the same fervor and documentation as you would a business loan.
Ensure all agreements are in writing




6.


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