How to Raise Money for a Christian Business

Networking with your Christian community can be a boon to your business

Raising money to start any business is a difficult task. A Christian-based enterprise is no exception. You must have a solid business plan based on a great vision with realistic projections to turn a profit within a reasonable time. There are, though, ways to utilize various Christian-based organizations, communities and networks to make it easier to find the necessary financing you seek.

Instructions

Raising Money for a Christian Business

1. Network with your community. Some of the best resources for raising funds for a business are the people you already know and who know you. Introduce your business idea into conversations at church gatherings, informal meetings, school functions and social occasions. If you truly have a good idea and are passionate about it, people you know will be naturally drawn to being part of it. Don't be pushy, but if someone seems interested, offer to email them further information or set up a business meeting.

2. Utilize formal business organizations. There are many Christian-based business organizations that are well-established and a great source for potential investment. These include The Christian Business Network and the International Christian Chamber of Commerce. There are also local Christian-based business networks in many cities across the country. For online networking opportunities, try ShoutLife.com as well as the hundreds of Christian-based groups on Facebook, MySpace and Twitter.

3. Use your college networks. If you went to a Christian college or university, you should take advantage of the official alumni organization and contact former classmates. Even if your former school is not run by a Christian organization, most schools such as Notre Dame, Boston College and Occidental College have a very strong Christian base that might share your values and believe in your business.

4. Start as a non-profit business. If your business can qualify as a non-profit, you should consider the advantages. Not only can you potentially lower the amount of taxes you will have to pay, but you will show the sincerity of your Christian values in your business mission. To find out if your business can quality as a non-profit and be exempt from paying taxes, visit the Internal Revenue Service's online home for charities and non-profit organizations.

References

• The Christian Business Network
• International Christian Chamber of Commerce
• Internal Revenue Service: Tax Information for Charities & Other Non-Profits