How to Get a Startup Loan in Today’s Economy by steve
There are many aspects to a successful business startup. Most people think that all they need is the perfect idea and a hefty dose of hard work. And they’re not wrong to think those things are important. However, the vast majority (80%) of startup businesses fail in their first 5 years — and 80% of the rest fail in their second 5 years! Is that because there are that many bad ideas? Or are all of these would-be entreprenuers lazy? Of course not! The number one reason new business fail is because of a lack of capital! There are many ways to capitalize a new business: personal savings, family and friends, a small business startup loan, federal, state or local grants, or even credit cards.
The riskiest of these funding sources are personal savings, credit cards, and borrowing from family and friends. The problem is that these resources might later become the “funds of last resort” and exhausting them to get started could result in an inability to raise funds at the most critical time.
Grants are a fantastic resource — if you happen to qualify for one. Unfortunately, getting a grant can be nearly impossible unless you happen to fit a specific demographic that happens to coincide with the requirements of the agency that is supplying it. In addition, you could be competing with dozens or hundreds, if not thousands, of other applicants fighting for the same grant funds.
This leaves most businesses with the option of applying for a startup loan. Despite what you may hear, getting a small business loan is not impossible, it just requires planning. It should be obvious that you need a clear and logical business plan. But how many business owners schedule an appointment with a banker to sell him on their business model? Instead, you should find out what the banker is looking for in a business that he is willing to loan money to. Ask your banker questions. They have specific things they’re looking for in a business and you may meet their needs but they may never find out if you don’t know what they’re looking for!
Applying for a startup loan can be daunting, but shouldn’t be ignored as a viable way of funding your business. Just like any other aspect of your business, careful planning and being willing to listen and ask the right questions can be the difference between success and failure.
