How to raise capital?

[OS]

Every once in a while I come up with an idea that I'd possibly like to develop. But the thing is, to do so would be kind of expensive. I know alot of you are small business owners, so how did you guys raise the money to start your business?

 

[Shantanu]

It's called "a bank".

 

[PsychoAndy]

banks dont lend money to just anybody. you need to present a business plan, collatteral, etc....if you want to borrow funds

what exactly are you trying to pull off?

 

[OS]

<< It's called "a bank". >>



I have no credit. And I don't really want to ask someone to cosign with me on a risky business proposition.

 

[HOWITIS]

lol, shantanu, i was about to post the same exact thing.

 

[OS]

<< what exactly are you trying to pull off? >>



Usually technology related. The ideas come and go after I realize I don't have the funds to put into an idea. I really need to start writing them down before I forget.

 

[Tripleshot]

357 magnum and a mask.

 

[dbcrossfire]

incorperate, easier to get a loan or investors in the company. and helps with your liability as well


side note: HA! this was the first thing that I have said here in atot that wasen't stupid!

 

[vi edit]

Three letters.

I P O

 

[Danman]

<< Three letters.

I P O

>>



oh yea.......

 

[charrison]

Make a good well thought business plan.

Goto a bank, if they turn you down try to find an angel group.

 

[NakaNaka]

you could pitch your idea to a Venture Capatilist. Though in this economy good luck.

 

[Gonad the Barbarian]

Just patent your ideas and sue someone when they use them.

 

[darkshadow1]

A majority of small business owners and entrepreneurs "bootstrap," meaning that they use their own personal savings to start their business. After an initial investment, you can try to find an "angel" investor who is willing to provide you with seed capital. Angels usually like to see about $50k of your own money put in before they'll consider your idea, although if it's an intriguing enough idea you may be able to get by with less. After than a loan with the Small Business Administration, a line of credit with a bank, or additional money from Venture Capital firms are your options. To really go beyond the initial investment stage, you want to formulate a good business plan, but most importantly you need to show potential investors that you really want to pursue that idea, i.e. it is not something you do while working at your regular job.