Venture Capital

Common Sources of Financing for Small Business - Part 3
by: Jeff Schein

Venture Capital

When firms approach venture capitalists, they are generally developed to the point where a venture capitalist can add value. The venture capitalists will generally sit on the board of directors, provide expertise and provide funding based on the attainment of milestones. They are generally interested in firms that can generate rapid growth – and returns - over a few short years; your time horizon is generally 3-8 years.

Trade Credit

One of the largest sources of short-tem financing, trade credit occurs whenever you purchase from a supplier but do not need to pay for the merchandise for 30 days (or whatever the terms are). Trade credit can be expensive if you are foregoing discounts, but a new firm may not have much of a choice.

Factoring

Factoring is also a popular source of financing for growing firms. When you generate a receivable you may sell it to a factor who will then collect the receivable for you. Typically, you will get between 75%-90% upfront for the receivable and the remainder when the factor collects, less a fee.

Part 4 - Asset Based Lending back to Part 2 - Angel Financing