Getting enough money for start-ups can be a challenge for normal working people, but it is not impossible. Here are several strategies that can help individuals secure funding for their start-ups:
1. Personal Savings: One of the most common ways to fund a start-up is by using personal savings. Normal working people can allocate a portion of their income towards savings and gradually build up a fund for their start-up. This approach requires discipline and long-term planning.
2. Bootstrapping: Bootstrapping refers to starting a business with minimal external funding and relying on personal resources and revenue generated by the business to grow. This approach often involves cutting costs, utilizing existing skills, and being resourceful. For example, an individual with programming skills can develop a software product without hiring additional developers or outsourcing.
3. Friends and Family: Many start-ups initially seek financial support from friends and family members who believe in their vision. This can be in the form of a loan, investment, or gift. However, it is crucial to approach this option with caution and maintain clear communication and expectations to avoid potential conflicts.
4. Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, or GoFundMe allow individuals to raise funds for their start-ups by appealing to a large number of people for small contributions. This approach requires creating a compelling campaign and offering rewards or incentives to attract backers. An excellent example is the Pebble smartwatch, which raised over $10 million on Kickstarter.
5. Small Business Loans: Normal working people can explore obtaining small business loans from banks, credit unions, or online lenders. These loans often require a solid business plan, collateral, and a good credit score. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) also offers various loan programs to support small businesses.
6. Angel Investors: Angel investors are individuals who provide capital to start-ups in exchange for equity or convertible debt. They often have experience in the industry and can offer guidance and connections along with funding. Platforms like AngelList or local angel investor networks can help connect start-ups with potential investors.
7. Government Grants and Programs: Governments, both at the national and local levels, may offer grants, subsidies, or programs to support small businesses and start-ups. Researching and applying for such opportunities can provide financial assistance. For instance, the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program in the United States offers grants to small businesses engaged in research and development.
8. Incubators and Accelerators: Joining an incubator or accelerator program can provide start-ups with funding, mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources. These programs are designed to help early-stage companies grow and succeed. Some popular examples include Y Combinator, Techstars, and 500 Startups.
It is important to note that securing funding for start-ups requires a combination of persistence, a compelling business idea, and a well-thought-out plan. Entrepreneurs should thoroughly research and explore various funding options to find the ones that best suit their needs and circumstances. Consulting with professionals, attending start-up events, and building a strong network can also be valuable in accessing funding opportunities.
© 2025 Invastor. All Rights Reserved
User Comments
Shannon Taylor
a year ago
Go ask a laundromat owner.
Robert Moore
a year ago
they’re not, that’s kinda the whole concept of capitalism
David Elsass
a year ago
I would NOT recommend borrowing against your home. Start small enough that you don't need much money and see if doing business on your own is actually something you want to do.
James Corlett
a year ago
One of the best strategies I’ve seen is in a relationship only living on one persons salary or wage and saving the others completely.
Mattie Mitchell
a year ago
Laundromats are not self running. Also, consider the amount of utilities needed.
Carlton Seidel
a year ago
In many cases you can buy an existing business for 10% down with SBA. My brother left his corporate job after 25 years and bought a pool supplies company in Arizona for $150K down, he used his 401K as collateral I think, can’t remember what that’s called. Anyway we looked together for about two years before he bought this one, I started my own and it took 7-8 years before it was making great money. Seems easier to buy one from someone retiring. Lots of bad businesses out there though, just a fair warning on laundromats and businesses like that. If you don’t own the building you are beholden to the landlord and I wouldn’t advise buying anything without a 10 year or more lease contract or multiple extension structure. I wish you good luck in your search. I ran across lots of interesting businesses when searching. Cheers
Willie Chagoya
a year ago
Money is not the most important thing in the world, but it's up there with oxygen. The passion people make me laugh every time.
Lazaro Bordeaux
a year ago
If everybody got what they wanted just because they wanted it, there would be a laundromat on every corner. Not trying to be harsh, that's just the way it works. Find something that has a low enough barrier to enter that fits your budget that you find tolerable. Don't fall for that passion nonsense, most people start businesses because they've mastered that skill set required to enter that particular market, and they work their ass off for years to grow a successful business.
James Andrews
a year ago
Start your own weld shop on the side. Work nights and weekends. Take all profits to build business. Build clientele. Get used weld machines. Find broken ones and fix them. Use for the business. Take risks. Don’t pay yourself six figures just because you can. Reinvest profits for better equipment and more supplies. You have a nice home. Then get a helco and go from there.
Gregory Carlsen
a year ago
Save, save, save. I have my 21 year old daughter putting $300 a month into a Fidelity account. I told her to treat it like a "tax" and just ignore it. Like lots of young folks she only has a few hundred dollars in her checking account, but she already has $6,000 or so in her Fidelity account. She will probably slowly and silently have about $50,000 or so by the time she reaches 30.