What's your business case?

Looking to grow your business and need extra capital or funding? You’ll need to determine how much you require and what exactly you’ll use the funds for.

• Is it for a new equipment purchase?
• Are you expanding your facility?
• Perhaps you’re buying out a business partner or a competitor.

Clarify your reasons in your business case then determine where the funds will come from.

Possible Sources

Using Your Own Funds

Using some of your own savings to invest in your business is one option. Backing your business shows you’ll work that much harder to ensure its success. There are also benefits of using your own funds.

• It’s the most affordable financing you can find.
• The shared-risk approach will improve your chances of getting a loan.

Getting Funds from Friends and Family

While money from friends and family is a kind offer, it can create personal complications if your business isn’t successful. If you choose to borrow money from family and friends, make sure it is a short-term loan that you can pay back quickly. All things going perfectly, it’s another highly affordable financing option for you.

Borrowing Funds from a Financial Institution

Borrowing from a financial institution is often the easiest way to obtain the financing you need. Before you meet with a lender, ensure you have all the financial information you need such as:

• the borrowing amount,
• how much you’re funding yourself,
• documentation needed for securing a loan,
• a repayment schedule, and
• any outstanding debt you currently have.

Innovation’s Business Advisors would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your plans and financing needs. You can book an appointment online or give us a call at 1.866.446.7001.

Outside Investors

You may want to consider outside investors, people interested in profitable investment opportunities. These are often called ‘Angel’ investors. They’ll give you funds in return for a share in your business and/or a percentage return on the funds they’ve lent to you.

Venture Capitalists

Venture capitalists are companies interested in investing in newer companies that could face the opportunity of being sold to the public or another company at a high rate of return. If your business can show consistent, high growth, this could be a funding option for you. A list of venture capitalists can be found in the member directory for the Canadian Venture Capital Association.

Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding is a way to raise small amounts of money from large amounts of people, typically online. It raises your business profile and has proven to be successful for some business ventures. Be sure to research laws and/or restrictions that could be in place where you live as part of your crowdfunding consideration. The National Crowdfunding & Fintech Association is a source for this information.

Government Grants and Subsidies

The Government of Canada offers loans, grants, guarantees and more. Visit the Business grants and financing page of Canada.ca to see what options are available to you.