Business Financing

Understanding Promissory Notes for Small Businesses

A promissory note sets out the repayment terms when you borrow money. If you borrow start-up cash for your business from a commercial lender, the lend...

Small Business Loans: Getting the Lender's Approval

Lenders are generally cautious in making loans to small businesses because of their high failure rate. As a result, these institutions have developed ...

Raising Private Money: Gifts, Loans, and Equity Investments

A tighter lending market means you may need to think outside the box to get your hands on business capital. Money from relatives and friends can suppl...

Raising Money Through Equity Investments

Unlike a lender -- who temporarily provides you with money to operate your business -- equity investors actually buy a piece of your business. For bet...

Private Loans & Investments: Raising Money from Family and Friends

Money from relatives and friends can supplement the business financing you're receiving from other sources -- or even fill a critical gap in starting ...

The Lowdown on Business Loans

As you know, a loan is based on a simple idea: someone gives you money and you promise to pay it back, usually with interest.

Loans and Equity Investments Compared

To raise money for your new business, you have two options: borrow money or sell part of your venture to an equity investor. Loans are often better fo...