The 504 Loan Program2 is a variation of the 7a available for small businesses to acquire real estate, machinery or equipment for expansion or modernization. This program provides long-term, fixed-rate financing through Certified Development Companies (CDC)— private, nonprofit corporations established to contribute to the economic development of their communities or regions. Another version of the 7a is the Microloan or 7(m) Loan Program3. Primarily to provide short-term loans for up to $35,000, the 7(m) loan is intended for working capital or the purchase of inventory, supplies, furniture, fixtures, machinery and/or equipment—proceeds cannot be used to pay existing debts or to purchase real estate. The funding is delivered through nonprofit organizations with experience in lending and technical assistance.
If the SBA is not a resource you are interested in exploring, angel investors can be a viable
option for acquiring start-up or expansion capital. Angel investors are individuals with some degree of financial net worth who are prepared to fund entrepreneurial businesses showing the potential for high growth. However, with angel investors you may be giving up some control of your company. Angel investors are commonly regarded as a type of “silent partner.” Even though they are not directly running the company, they did invest in it—which can mean they may want to reserve the right to have some say in business decisions.
Angel investors generally do not actively solicit these investment opportunities. Should you decide to pursue an angel investor to finance your business, start by articulating that within your own networks. Clearly identify the investment figure you are looking for, as well as the type of involvement you want your angel investor to have in the business. Interacting with business professionals (including business bankers, CPAs, attorneys, business brokers, venture capitalist groups), industry associations, university entrepreneur programs and even web-based investment registries can give you a great start to locating an investor that is right for you.
If you are looking for an alternative to obtaining your business financing from a “stranger”, you might also consider borrowing from your family or friends. By taking a loan from someone you know personally, you will most likely not have to provide the qualifications mandatory with other loan sources. It is also feasible that you may have more leeway in working out pay-back terms and time frames. On the other hand, it is a very individual and personal decision to involve friends or family in business affairs. Be sure that you are 100% comfortable with mixing business into your existing relationship before any actions are taken.
Bottom line—the bank is not your only resource for obtaining business capital; there are various entities willing to invest. You must be willing and dedicated to doing thorough research and planning to achieve maximum results. Securing the best financing option for your vision is not only instrumental, but crucial to the overall success of your business.
|
