Sources of Funding Information for Your Small Business

Funding information sources can help locate financial options for a small business.

Finding sufficient funding to launch, expand or run a small business can mean the difference between a thriving enterprise and the need to cease operations. Knowing sources of information for grants, loans and other funding possibilities is needed before an evaluation of financing options can occur. Funding information can be obtained from a variety of non-profit and for-profit organizations.

Government

The United States government provides multiple sources of information for small business owners. The website for the Small Business Administration, or SBA, offers a section devoted to loan and grant information. Information includes instructional materials and specific program details. The SBA also provides information in person through district offices and Small Business Development Centers. Additional funding information may be available at Women's Business Centers, U.S. Export Assistance Centers, Veterans Business Outreach Centers and Procurement Technical Assistance Centers.

Library

Local libraries often have sections devoted to business resources that may including funding information. Resources may offer information on how to apply for different funding options or may provide lists of potential funding sources and requirements. Specific resources vary based on the individual library's collection of business-oriented books, videos and reference materials. Inter-library loans and visiting nearby libraries may be required to obtain sufficient funding information.

Financial Institutions

For-profit and non-profit financial institutions often provide the actual funding needed for small business ventures. These institutions can provide information on the loan products they offer to small business clients. Information can include the financing options available, the minimum requirements and loan details. Visiting multiple institutions can provide a perspective on the institution-based financial options open to a small business. Financial institutions to consider include banks, credit unions and product financing operations.

Business Advisers

Professional business advisers and management consulting firms can offer funding information for a small business. The information may be offered as a courtesy, or may require a fee for the service. Small business advice is offered for free through the SCORE program that is affiliated with the Small Business Administration. Advisers may offer recommendations, analysis or appraisal services that help identify specific funding information and sources that are best suited to a small business's financial needs and business objectives.

References

• The Library of Congress: Financing Small Business Enterprises: Sources of Information
• SBA.gov: Loans & Grants
• SBA.gov: Local Counseling & Training