Funding Options for your Green
Business
"An entrepreneur is someone who dares to
dream the dreams and is foolish enough to try to make those dreams come
true."
Personal Funding :If you already
possess
the resources necessary to start your business, this should obviously be your
first choice. Through self-funding, you will have no interest rates and no
monthly payments. The total you spend on getting your business up and running will
be significantly lower.
Friends and FamilyFriends & Family
: These
same principles apply to any personal acquaintances that are willing to provide
you with funding. If you present them with a business model outlining exactly
what you plan to do with their money, they will be more inclined to make the
investment in your business.
Credit Cards Credit Cards : Some business
starters
feel that they will get immediate and high returns on their venture. If this is
the case for you, then you may choose to use a credit card to get your business
going. As long as you are able to make all of your investment back before the
interest is compounded, this method of financing is completely free of interest.
Bank Loan Bank Loan : If
you have a
good borrowing history, banks will be likely to give you a personal loan. If
you choose to take out one of these, you will receive a large lump sum to start
with. You will make regular payments, and the interest will most likely be
compounded monthly. These are a popular route to take for entrepreneurs, but
can land you in big trouble if you aren’t able to make a payment.
Equity Line of Credit Equity Line of
Credit : If
you own a house or another business, you can use its value to open an equity
line of credit. The bank will lend you money with your valuable asset as
collateral. This will give you immediate access to a certain amount of money
every month. Interest must be paid on these, but only for the money which is
utilized
Commercial Loan Commercial Loan
: Commercial loans are another very valid option. These work like a
personal loan, but the bank will require information about your venture, and
what you plan to spend the money on. Commercial loans differ because they are
usually larger sums with higher monthly payments.
Micro Loans from Local
or Government Agencies Mcro Loans From Government Agencies : Many regions with
suffering economies offer micro loans from local government agencies. These are
small loans designed to get your business on its feet. Many non-profit
organizations work to provide these to entrepreneurs in order to boost the
growth of smaller towns.
Government Grants Government Grants
: Governments
also provide funding for businesses in the form of grants. These are usually
designed to provide economic growth, or to encourage research in a certain
industry. The options vary greatly from industry to industry, so it is best to
do broad research when looking for information on grants