Launching a business, with its promise of creative control and potential for substantial profits, is a dream many individuals harbor. However, the road to entrepreneurship seldom runs straight and smooth all the way. A host of challenges lie in wait, often testing potential business owners’ tenacity and resilience. One such hurdle that frequently puts a pause on entrepreneurial dreams is personal debt.
By itself, the prospect of funding a small business or startup will already seem intimidating to many. When you’re shouldering a significant amount of personal debt, such as lingering credit card debt or sizeable mortgages, these financial demands can appear even more daunting than they ordinarily would be. Depending on where you are in your career or life journey, these forms of debt may make the financial risk of starting a business seem overwhelming—and you would hardly be the first person to put off your plans for the meantime.
If you’re a new entrepreneur who feels strongly about your business venture despite your outstanding personal debt, however, know that these debts don't necessarily close the door on your dreams. There are methods and strategies to finance your business venture even when grappling with debt, such as the following:
Take Out a Business Loan
Business banking loans, a traditional source of funding for startups, are accessible to entrepreneurs with some amount of personal debt on their hands. While your credit history certainly matters, lenders will be looking at many other criteria to assess your eligibility for a business loan. That means that the amount of debt you have isn't an automatic disqualifier. They’ll also be examining the potential profitability of your business and the viability of your business plan, as these will give them some idea of how promptly you’ll be able to repay the loan down the road.
In their search for a reputable institution to apply for a business loan, Philippines-based startups have the option of looking at financial services and digital payments companies in addition to traditional banks. These organizations sometimes offer loans for businesses that already use their other services, and these may come with borrower-friendly fees and quick activation.
Maya Flexi Loan, for example, is an up-and-coming business banking loan that Maya Business will be offering to active clients who possess a Maya Business Deposit account. Eligible businesses can apply for up to PHP 2 million worth of additional funding to help support their operations.
Do note, however, that you’ll need to be careful and discerning about how you manage your business loans. As attractive as the infusion of capital may be, don’t forget to weigh it against the potential burden of additional debt. Thoroughly analyze your business plan and think about your repayment capabilities, and don’t hesitate to consult a financial advisor if you need a professional opinion.
Apply for Grants
Numerous organizations, including government bodies and private foundations, offer grants to help startups and small businesses get off the ground. These present an appealing financing option, as they're essentially “free money” for your business. If your startup operates in a specialized field or if you belong to an underrepresented group in business, you may be able to find grants specifically targeted to support your venture.
Securing a grant, however, can be a very competitive process. It requires a detailed understanding of the grant's criteria, a compelling proposal, and more often than not, a fair amount of patience. Some grants may also stipulate how recipients should use the funds, so double-check the terms and conditions of any grants you apply for and make sure that your business needs align with these.
Despite these challenges, it’s well worth applying for a grant if the opportunity arises. Scoring one will give your business a significant financial boost without adding to your debt or diluting your equity.
Try Crowdfunding
The worldwide ubiquity of the internet and digital communications technology has made crowdfunding a viable financing option for startups and other projects. Crowdfunding platforms let you present your business ideas directly to the public, offering them an opportunity to back your project financially. Whether you're developing a groundbreaking technology, launching a new line of sustainable products, or opening a unique local business, the public support you accrue through crowdfunding can serve as an effective launchpad.
While crowdfunding offers the advantage of not incurring additional debt or surrendering business equity, it's not without its demands. Success hinges on your ability to effectively market your idea and inspire potential backers. A compelling story, clear communication on how the funds will be used, and attractive rewards for supporters are key components of a successful crowdfunding campaign. Just be aware that many crowdfunding platforms operate on an all-or-nothing basis–if you don't meet your funding goal, you may not receive any money at all.
Use a Business Credit Card
Business credit cards can offer a practical solution for managing some of your startup costs in the short term. They provide the convenience of on-hand capital, often come with beneficial reward programs, and can help you establish a credit history for your business. Moreover, business credit cards allow you to separate your personal and work expenses, thus simplifying financial management and tax preparation.
Take care not to spend indiscriminately with a business credit card, however, as these cards often come with high interest rates. You may thus find yourself even deeper in debt if you don’t regularly pay your balances in full. If you've personally guaranteed the card, late or missed payments can also negatively affect your personal credit standing. As with any form of credit, understand the terms and potential pitfalls before committing.
Find a Business Partner with a Ready Cash Flow
There’s no need to embark on your business venture alone, particularly if you’re still struggling with debts. You could always share the undertaking with a reliable business partner–one who believes in your vision and has the financial means to invest in your startup. In addition to money, a partner can bring other benefits to the table, such as additional skills, shared responsibilities, and moral support.
Though partnerships undoubtedly have many practical benefits, you’ll also need to consider potential challenges. Bringing on a partner means sharing decision-making power and potentially compromising on some aspects of your business. Conflicts may arise, and the dynamics of personal relationships may change if you elect to turn friends or family members into business partners.
To navigate these complexities, practice open and honest communication, and do lay out a comprehensive partnership agreement. This legal document should clarify roles, responsibilities, and procedures for resolving disputes, providing a clear roadmap for the partnership.
As you map out your entrepreneurial journey, remember that personal debt, while a challenge, doesn't exclude you from pursuing your aspirations. With strategic planning, thoughtful decision-making, and a clear understanding of your financial options, you can navigate the complexities of starting a business in the shadow of debt. Your entrepreneurial aspirations are within reach, poised to transform from dream to reality.
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