Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Business Card Printing is a Marketing Investment
Business card printing is a straightforward advertising material, which creates new avenues of business development just like any other advertising tool. The standard business card contains the details of address and telephone number along with the name of the person. It is printed on a card which is handed over to associates during official tours or any tours and meetings. The card also has the logo of the company you are representing. Sometimes it has a few lines about the company or about famous products.
You can use the color business cards as a tool in your marketing campaign. The business owners or business executives of big companies give these business cards to several people they come across while making meetings, attending conventions and so on. You can exchange your business cards with several people.
You can also prepare your business cards to give to people that you come across in your store or at the business place or at anywhere else, where you visit on official purpose or even for informal visits. Some of them will retain those cards carefully and take advantage of the contact details whenever they feel the urge to contact you for a service or the product you are dealing in. Your customers recall you through the mentioned contact number for further requirement of your products or services.
You can make use of this amazing tool by investing in business cards printing by a reliable printing company. The attractive business cards have enhanced chances of being preserved by customers for future. This investment creates a future prospect for business benefit and your business develops certainly. You should invest in attractive and colorful business card printing for better earnings.
Due to this excellence, business card printing is considered as a useful marketing tool to enhance the customer base of your business and thus you can expect a rise in your business profits.
Full Color Business cards printing is done on thick paper for better longevity. Color cards are also preferred by some business owners due to the instant appeal they make on customers and with the latest technology of digital printing you get a top class and highly attractive business card for your business and gain immensely.
Through this article, we try to provide valuable information about business cards and its effectiveness. For printing quality business cards, you can visit full color business cards
Orignal From: Business Card Printing is a Marketing Investment
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Bar and Wine Cabinets - Entertain in Style
Do you love to entertain in your home? Do you want to treat your guests to a truly sophisticated and luxurious experience each time they attend one of your gatherings? If so, perhaps you should consider incorporating the use of a bar or wine cabinet into your homes dcor.
Far from being just ornamental furnishings, bar and wine cabinets are very practical when it comes to entertaining a large group of friends. No more would you have to serve drinks from a counter top or have to weave your way in and out of guests to get more glasses out of the kitchen cupboards. With bar and wine cabinets, everything is conveniently and beautifully organized right at your fingertips.
And bar wine and cabinets add a sense of sophistication and style that cannot be accomplished by other types of furnishings. Whether your homes dcor is formal, country or modern, there is a wine or bar cabinet that will perfectly complement your individual space, personality and sense of style.
Take for instance the Bealle Steet Oval bar and wine cabinet by Powell. This wine cabinet is breathtaking and is vintage-inspired with sophisticated, tropical Dutch West Indies detailing framed in woven rattan with faux leather accents crafted in select hardwoods covered a lightly distressed two tone "Bahama" finish. This luxurious wine cabinet features includes storage for 12 bottles, 2 drawers, 2 doors, 2 adjustable shelves and 4 unique rattan galleried storage shelves on either end.
If you want a lot of style from a bar cabinet but do not have a great deal of space to devote to one, perhaps the Mardi Gras bar and wine cabinet would be perfect for our space. This beverage cabinet is both elegant and functional and features beautiful hand painting over Black Analine finish. The top flips open and slides to a center position for twice the serving surface. Doors with Antique Pewter handles open to reveal enough storage space for up to 22 bottles and 14 glasses. This bar and wine cabinet also features drawers for added storage and keeps everything snugly nestled inside when not in use.
If you prefer something a little more casual, maybe you would enjoy the multi-functional Casual Bar Cabinet with Marble Top. This cabinet doubles as a kitchen cart and features a medium distressed oak finish with a green marble surface, two towel racks, a center drawer, a 4-bottle wine rack and two shelves for accessories or cookbooks.
And it does not take a great deal of money to upgrade your entertaining space with a bar or wine cabinet. You can take your space from ordinary to extraordinary for under $1000. Some bar cabinets can even be purchased for just a few hundred dollars depending on your tastes, needs and wants.
As you can see from these few examples, there is a large variety of wine and bar cabinets to choose from. So if you are looking to add that special something to your entertaining space, perhaps you should browse the large selection of wine and bar cabinets. You are bound to find something that is just perfect for you and something that will make your next gathering a phenomenal success.
Author: Jennifer Akre
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Orignal From: Bar and Wine Cabinets - Entertain in Style
Home Based Business Grants
There are a whole host of individuals and potential home based business owners who have been searching for grant money which, they hope, will provide them with the necessary means to start their home based business. Some companies will market to these consumers using terms like "free money" to entice them. With all of these companies making it seem so easy to get free grant money for your business, why would you not want to partake in the spoils?
When trying to find free money grants for your home-based business, your best bet is to proceed with caution. That is because technically, free money does exists, but you may need to read the fine print. Small business owners and entrepreneurs can actually get free grants from the millions of dollars of funds available to them. The majority of these grants come from private institutions, the government and nongovernmental organizations. The amount of grant money paid out varies between $5,000 to six figures. And the most amazing thing about the grant money is no one requires you to pay it back.
However, the vast majority of institutions which fund these grants do not offer free money at all. Businesses such as the Bank of America Foundation or the Small Business Association will not provide capital for small businesses such as clothing design or day cares, etc. And they will not provide small business grants to anyone who wants to start a "for profit" company. Rather, these funding groups will generally utilize their grant funds to target specific organizations, activities or groups. For example, the SBA grants are usually provided to educational institutes or nonprofit organizations. The Bank of America Foundation will consider requests by nonprofits that are in a geographic area that they have strong business presence in. If they come across a business or nonprofit which falls in line with the objectives and goals of their organization, most funding institutions will provide what is called "project" funding.
There are also small amounts of grant funding institutions that will give individuals money directly. The drawback, though, is that you need to use the grant money in a way that remains consistent with the funding institutions objectives. And because these are project-based grants, a lot of organizations may require you to provide some of the funding on your own. As for using grants to fund your home-based business, they may only cover a small portion of what you actually need. Only on rare occasions will the cover the entire cost to start your business. For example, the Indian Grant Program provided by the Bureau of Indian Affairs offers individuals up to $100,000 to develop businesses on reservations that will impact the reservation positively. It also makes clear the fact that only 25% of all costs are covered. So, the individuals then need to provide the other 75% out of their own pockets.
Author: Katie Appleby
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Orignal From: Home Based Business Grants
Small Business Grants - How to Get One
Every new entrepreneur dreams to take his business to huge heights but most of them fail to realize their goals. Lack of capital is a very important reason along with poor plans and marketing. But if the marketing ways are good enough, then it would be really unfair if their business fails only because of low funds. For this, many grants are available so as to boost their business.
It is necessary to realize which type of finance is most required and the extent to which funding is important. Then one can approach government grants, banks, big investors etc. for the capital.
Importance of business plans-
The business plan can be said as the key to small business grants. The plans give a clear idea of your goals and vision and the also the path and speed you intend to uptake to reach the target. The potential in your business is shown in your business plan and it is the plan itself, which increases the confidence of the grant distributors in you.
Presentation of the business plan-
The next important step is the presentation. Any small business grant distributor will be interested in how the money is planned to be used by you in the most efficient and economic manner, how much profit is expected with the input. Bank loaners will want to find how you intend to repay. So presentation and explanation of all these can improve the chances of grant sanction. Small business Grants are also available by rich investors. But they look out for your confidence your own business So it is important to invest one's own personal money into the business for these investors to sanction the funding.
Eligibility for small business grants sanction-
The location of the enterprise is one big reason for sanction of small business grants. The government wants decentralization of industries in order to avoid migration toward cities. So the small business grants are extended to those, preferably, who own a business in rural areas. Also, since it helps to raise the standard of living of the rural people, the government grant sanctioners are less rigid.
Small business grants are readily extended to small business industries to help them grow, only if they have a potential.
Small business grants bodies have their own objectives and give grants to those satisfying them in the best possible manner.
Reasons for failure of sanction-
If the grant bodies do not see potential in the business or if the field of research is nowhere connected to their objectives or if the business plan seems to be unreal, grant is not sanctioned to such small businesses.
It is said that help comes only if you look for it in the right place and only if you deserve one. And this is equally true for a grant to be sanctioned. State governments, trustee bodies etc. groups sanction grants from time to time to those who really need them. The only necessity is to prove one's own potential to them. Sometimes these grants turn small aspirants into powerful, ruling businessmen.
Author: James Copper
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Orignal From: Small Business Grants - How to Get One
The Government's Role in Business Grants in the UK
If you are looking for business grants to help you start, refurbish, or relocate your business in the UK, your first step should be to research what is available for business grants in the areas you need like start up or relocating to another area. If you have a business you want to relocate to the UK from another country you may need to see if there are any business grants for such a project available.
A business grant is money that usually pays a part of the expenses you will incur in a move, or setting up a business. You don't have to repay this or give shares in your business. Various places are available to look into for grants: the Government, European Union, Regional development agencies, small business corporations and others in the private sector as well. These grants can be associated with certain businesses, or a geographical location, especially areas in need of economic boosts from new industry.
The Government
The Government helps with grants to businesses and they assist with networking and advice on getting set up and applying for the grants you qualify for as a business. There is a lot of competition for business grants through the Government, so the guidelines and qualifications are exacting. If you meet the criteria then you can apply and hope you are selected for the grant.
Government business grants are usually for projected development of projects that haven't been started yet. Generally the terms and conditions of the grant will allow you to keep the grant unless you break the agreement you have. Then you will have to pay the grant back.
Matching Funds
Most business grants from the Government also mean you have to get matching funds from another source like a loan or funds from other businesses who are investing in the project. Grants are never 100% of the amount needed; you need to show your own participation and come up with some of the capital needed to invest in the relocation.
Sources for Business Grants
There are several sources for business grants in the UK, such as the Government, regional development agencies, Chambers of Commerce, county enterprise boards and even some colleges have business grants. You have to research by the type of business you have and what your plans are for it before you can apply for a grant. Know what you are talking about before going into the entities you are applying to obtain a business grant from. Any office you are going to see is going to want a precise plan of action right down to approximate dates and the profit projections.
Business grants may take some time to get approved too; it all depends on the timetable of the office you have applied to and how many they are looking at. Not everyone can get approved because there is a limited amount of grant money available. One good tip is having your matching money already in a place where you can show you already have that part of the funding. Be organized and able to answer any questions that might be asked of you, including your personal background. The office you apply through is going to do a background check before they ask you anything so you have to be honest in your answers. The criteria vary for places you can apply but they will all want to make sure they are dealing with an up front person who is honest in their conviction to the project and will fulfill the agreement and terms of the grant. With a bit of luck and some determination, you should be getting your project off the ground in no time.
Author: John J Mclean
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Orignal From: The Government's Role in Business Grants in the UK
Business Grants - Applying and Eligibility
Business grants exist to help businesses develop. They are available from a number of different sources such as the Government, European Union, Regional Development Agencies, Business Link, local authorities and some charitable organisations.
Many business grants are however limited to small or medium sized enterprises, for example, if a business has fewer than 250 employees. These grants can be approved based on situations such as specific geographical areas, i.e. those in need of economic regeneration or in other cases they can be granted due to factors such as your business activity or your business sector.
England, Wales and Scotland each have their own range of grants available. The amount of money put aside for these business grants can also vary. For example an area with social deprivation or high unemployment may have more money available for grants than others.
Grants however may be and most generally are subject to restrictions in certain sectors, these restrictions are defined by the European Commission. All applications will be closely inspected by the European Commission. It should also be noted that grant bodies prefer to see specific targets and results, which are often compatible with their own objectives.
Additionally, you should ensure:
You are ready to put up some of your own money
You need the money for a specific purpose
You haven't already started the project before you get an agreement in principle of funding
Grants are normally awarded for specific purposes such as the purchasing of machinery, improving offices and increasing employment as well as developing export markets. Whilst deciding whether or not to award you with a grant the awarding body will expect a high level of commitment from you and your business.
Applying for a business grant is highly competitive meaning you have to really prove why your business idea. If you are turned down for a business grant you shouldn't take it as too much of a disappointment in the respect that you should take on board the reasons why you were turned down. Some of the main reasons as to why business grants are turned down include:
Your work isn't relevant to the body who is awarding the grant
Statements made are not backed up by facts
Research plan is unfocused
You are unable to prove you can match your funds
Your need for a business grant isn't proven
Information in your application is not up-to-date
These are merely just a few reasons as to why your application for a business grant might be turned down. To give your business the best possible chance at securing a business grant you need to ensure that you provide the following to the organisation that is awarding your grant:
A detailed and descriptive project of the reason you wish to apply for a business grant
Explain the potential benefits of your proposed project
A detailed plan that contains information about the total cost of your proposed project
Details of your own experience and that of any other key managers
Completed application forms where stipulated
A possible business plan
You need to have every aspect of your business detailed and documented before you continue and apply for your business grant.
Author: Helen Cox
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Orignal From: Business Grants - Applying and Eligibility
Business Grants - How Do I Obtain One?
A few years ago I started to look into obtaining a grant because my wife and I were interested in opening up an animation studio, and knew it would take money to do it. In my research I saw that there was a lot to it. It is not impossible to get a grant, you just have to be persistent. I have not gone all the way yet to obtain one, I decided to go to school first! I figured why open a studio if I don't know what I am doing? But, because of some of the research and article reading I have done it allowed me to create for myself a resource, so that when I am ready to begin the process and work with a particular lending institution or foundation offering grants, I already have a wealthy resource to help me start immediately.
Now, SallieMae financed my student loan, but many of these grants do not require pay back! So, since we created a resource we want to share it. Remember, if this helps you let us know! Our site will have a form for your name and email, we want to post testimonials, it would mean a lot to us! Remember this as well, some of the articles and other resources have great info on how to go about obtaining the grant you are seeking, so take the time to READ!
Small business grants are a great way to fulfill your goals of becoming a business owner. There are billions of dollars available from the government and corporations in business grants and loans. If you want to take a look at the grants available, the best place to start is the CFDA, the Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance. There are many types of grants offered by the Government and other institutions that include individual grants for personal necessities, starting new business, funding education and many more.
Grants are given every year for a variety of reasons, from small business, continuing education, or preserving a historic landmark. These programs do not require a credit check, collateral, a security deposit or co-signer. Grants don't have to be paid back. Grants to individuals are most often given for educational, the arts,and various types of other research. There a great book resources for finding grants and federal aid, like from Matthew Lesko, see our site here for his link.
These are also available for start up businesses in all fields like accounting, construction, decorating, food and restaurants, photography, entertainment, and more. Grants are always a reasonable choice for supporting your existing business. Government grants are generally given to non-profit organizations for programs and services that will benefit the community. You can also take a look at the Government's Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) as listed above, which contains a listing of various Government grants and other types of assistance.
There are billions of dollars available from the government and major corporations in minority business grants and loans as well. However, you will need to do the proper paperwork, appeals, and have a business plan to obtain these loans or grants. Be persistent! Don't stop until you obtain what you are looking for. See the minority business grant and loan sections to find out more about funding sources.
Women starting up a new business can apply for grants, as that grants for women are available. Women need grants as well as men. If you feel like you have been overlooked, and suffer from gender discrimination, don't let that stop you from excelling to your dreams! Check out sections on grants for women, you will be surprised at the resources waiting for you! Education grants help women pursue college degrees, and business grants help women advance in their careers. Education grants are different from education loans in that the education grants do not have to be repaid, so remember that! The Government grants are usually reserved for education and research.
Small business grants are closer than you think. Many business grants will be geared towards minority business development or rural business opportunity grants. There are different types of grants offered today in aiding entrepreneurs in their new business start-ups, including individual grants, business grants, government grants, organizational grants, and more. So, good luck in your search and we hope you find the grants you need! Again see our site for a complete online directory.
Author: Joseph Young
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Orignal From: Business Grants - How Do I Obtain One?
Small Business Grants for Women
Many young ladies out there have gained a lot of interest recently in the so called small business grants for women. And how can we be surprised to hear this, considering the fact that the government offers real chances and supports to good projects and causes. After all, why shouldn't women take advantage of these small business grants for women and invest the money in noble goals and successful, meaningful businesses? The sad thing is that, even though the world is changing for the better, the society and the business world is still leaded by men - but the government grants for women are here to change all that!
There are some requirements you need to meet before even thinking about applying for small business grants for women - and the most important one of all is that you have to own a business. More exactly, you need to have at least 51% in order to be eligible for such a business grant program. It is highly important that you have a flawless credit card history before you apply for the small business grants for women. For sure, this is not an easy job and you must think way ahead in order to maintain a clean and positive credit card report. If you have done some financial mistakes in the past, then repair them while you can and only then apply for the grants sources.
The strategy is the most important part of your application for the small business grants for women. What you need is a great plan, a one of a kind idea and a little creativity in order to make it all seem incredibly appealing and convincing. The right idea can help you gain many points and can definitely put you in a favored light.
You might want to hear some extra tips regarding the ideas that sell best when wanting to obtain small business grants for women. Well, think about all the things that can actually help your community. For starters, women always prove to be great in education-related fields, so why not start from here?
But your region or city might need some very specific businesses or organizations for the citizens. You, as a local should know bet what your area needs - maybe a medical centre or maybe a cultural centre. As long as you base your strategy on a meaningful cause, you are definitely a perfect candidate for the small business grants for women.
All these might be a little confusing - but if you really need some extra help, you can hire a specialist to guide you all the way. Like this, you can create the most powerful business plan and get the small business grants for women you desire.
You must be convinced by now that the small business grants for women are a great solution to start a business or an organization. Small business grants for women can become a reality, as long as you put some efforts into planning your proposal. So, act ahead, start researching, planning and thinking about your strategy to get that grant money!
Author: Livia Monroe
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Orignal From: Small Business Grants for Women
Guide to Getting Small Business Grants
Do You Know that Small Business Grants Can be Waiting for You Almost 'Round the Corner'?
We are living in the times when governments understand the value of small businesses for the global economy. Small businesses are the pushers and testing grounds for new trends, they provide lots of jobs for the masses, they make any society more stable and happy. So governments have created special funds, programs, associations to provide government grants for small business.
You can be surprised to find out that there are so many types of grants that you can be missing and that can help you out almost instantly - minority small business grants, small business grants for woman, federal grants for small business, business start up grants and even free small business grants. All these types of grants act as a real proof that they really help many small businesses to succeed.
There are two typical issues about getting small business grants.
(1) WHERE to Get Small Business Grants.
Start with doing local search for 'small business grants', 'small business bank loans', 'venture funds' and 'angel investors'. This will give you a pretty big list of places to apply for help.
If you are in the USA - there are some majors that provide this type of financial assistance - for example, Small Business Administration (SBA) that has many departments that fit all possible types of businesses or help. It can also be wise to check the catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance - there you can find many good places to apply for the grants.
For businesses outside US there is also a way to succeed. Government, public or private organizations in your country must be giving some help to new small businesses within the framework of these institutions:
- economic development programs, funds, departments, opportunities, initiatives;
- banks (usually they have special small business loans and programs);
- venture funds, companies, firms;
- credit partnerships;
- angel investors (this type of business got very popular recently).
The list is big, but it means that you do not need to trust one business grant opportunity. The more opportunities, the better for you!
(2) HOW to Get Small Business Grants.
There is no magic formula to safe getting of grants.
But you can increase your chances using these simple tips.
Build a good business plan. Surely you are starting your business with some plan, but here you need to be very convincing, well-prepared to any questions. People who read this plan must understand and feel that the only element necessary for your success is the money, the grant.
Keep in good contact with your grant agent (manager, officer, anyone who is in charge of all details). Don't be a pusher, but make sure that you are in control of the situation. A lot will depend upon this person, maybe not the final decision, but a lot. Make sure he/she can reach you at any moment. And would be great if you have his/her contact details, the more, the better.
Try to find someone who already got a grant from the institution or organization you apply to. If it is possible, find out all details before applying there: what problems this person had, what questions asked, what impressed the grant givers, etc.
And the last advice, if in one place it did not work, don't give up. You can either appeal or try another place.
Only those who knock at the door can see it open.
Author: Nickolay Bokhonok
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Orignal From: Guide to Getting Small Business Grants
Finding The Right Business Grants
There are many types of grants offered by the Governments and other financial institutions that include individual grants for personal necessities, business grants for starting new business, education grants for funding education and many more. One of the best places to research the availability of business grants and loans is the Small Business
Administration, an agency of the federal government with a mandate to help business, especially small business succeed. Despite what many people tell you, the idea that the government is just sitting around with a pile of money waiting to give out to you or any other small business is just plain wrong. Statistics show that a large portion of the world's population owns and runs a small business.
While the Small Business Administration does not have any monies to provide directly for business grants and loans they can direct businesses to a number of government agencies and departments that do provide this type of assistance. Even though the category of Business and Commerce may be what appears to have the largest selection of resources for business grants for women, consider the other categories as well, according to where your business falls.
There are two main types of financing available for small businesses; small business grants and small business loans. It is important to realize that many grants that are available cannot be awarded to small businesses because in many cases, a small business is operating for a profit. This is not to say that assistance is not available at all, just that grants are probably a long process when and if you happen to find one where your small business fits.
So, are there any grants available to you as a small business owner? You are not along if you need small business grants and loans to get your business started. Your chances of obtaining grants for your business dramatically increase if you have a non-profit organization.
New business owners and existing business owners are eligible to apply for business grants. Another option when starting your business would be to apply for private grants from foundations and corporations. If you are considering starting your own home business in the near future you should consider researching small business grants and loans now.
If you are interested in looking for a company that can provide you with small business administration grants, you can try searching through the http://GovGrantsGuide.com for information.
Author: M Zuraimy
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Orignal From: Finding The Right Business Grants
Small Business Grants From SBA
The U.S. Federal Government is the nations largest provider of financial or monetary assistance for small businesses. Since 1953, the Small Business Administration (SBA) branch of the Federal government has helped many small ventures that have become household names today. The government considers small businesses very seriously. They realize their obligation to promote and develop these firms for the integrated development of the whole nation.
Small Business Administration:
The SBA does not directly offer grants to individuals for business expansion or start-up. For individual set-ups, it provides a wide variety of loan programs on easy pay back terms. However, the SBA does offer many types of grants programs indirectly to benefit small business entrepreneurs. SBA grants programs are specifically designed to expand and enhance those organizations that provide small businesses with technical or financial assistance. These monetary grants generally support state and local governments, non-profit organizations and intermediary lending institutions.
Small businesses can in turn avail the grants from these institutions. The entrepreneurs need to have a workable business plan and meet the required basic criteria to avail the loan or grant from SBA supported institutions. These funds can be then utilized to either set-up or expand the existing businesses. SBA has very special and easy terms to offer business grants to women entrepreneurs and members of the ethnic minority groups to help them become economically independent. This leads to numerous co-related activities and finally development of underdeveloped regions of the vast country. It brings about a social change and societal uplift.
Benefits of Grants from SBA:
A grant is a direct financial contribution made without any expectation of a repayment but with very specific expectations of the required outcome. These programs are designed to encourage and assist entrepreneurs in starting their own ventures. This promotes an economic development and integrates the individuals into the mainstream of American economic society. Organizations that give grants exclude for-profit businesses, but encourage small businesses to take their grants. The grants are readily provided after meeting certain basic criteria.
Women entrepreneurs are the largest beneficiarys of governments generosity for special encouragement. Federal grants are extended to those non-profit organizations that provide counseling, training and other technical support to women groups. The SBA runs special help centers and womens business centers to train the women technically. They give access to credit and capital, provide with government contracts etc as well.
Ethnic minority groups too are special beneficiaries of federal governments financial grants on easy terms. SBA runs a Minority Enterprise Development Program known as the 8(a) program. This helps the minority entrepreneurs to bag the government contracts for the utilization of their products.
Small business people or groups are very hard working and enthusiastic about their business. They spend quality time to develop it and stay in touch with their work, as they do not have too many people to help. Their businesses take precedence over their family, friends or even vacation plans. They stay in constant touch to avoid failure or any unprecedented disaster. This helps in successful maturation of their businesses after an initial set-up time.
Author: Alexander Gordon
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Orignal From: Small Business Grants From SBA
Business Grants
One of the best places to research the availability of business grants and loans is the Small Business Administration, an agency of the federal government with a mandate to help business, especially small business succeed. Despite what many people tell you, the idea that the government is just sitting around with a pile of money waiting to give out to you or any other small business is just plain wrong. The idea of obtaining a small business grant, for many small business owners, is great.
Your chances of obtaining grants for your business dramatically increase if you have a non-profit organization. This isn't to say that assistance isn't available at all, just that grants are probably a long process when and if you happen to find one where your small business fits. While the Small Business Administration does not have any monies to provide directly for business grants and loans they can direct businesses to a number of government agencies and departments that do provide this type of assistance.
Even though the category of Business and Commerce may be what appears to have the largest selection of resources for business grants for women, consider the other categories as well, according to where your business falls. There are many types of grants offered by the Governments and other financial institutions that include individual grants for personal necessities, business grants for starting new business, education grants for funding education and many more. There are two main types of financing available for small businesses; small business grants and small business loans.
You're not along if you need small business grants and loans to get your business started. If you want to avail of free government business grants then you need to locate a program that provides grants to start up businesses. Government's Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) provides a listing of Government grants and other types of assistance that you can receive.
The downside of grants is that business grants for women are not widely available. So, are there any grants available to you as a small business owner? New business owners and existing business owners are eligible to apply for business grants.
Small business administration grants are provided for small businesses that are already in operation. Small businesses always play a significant role in the economic growth of a country and that is the reason governments are always ready to offer financial resources to facilitate small business. This type of service offered by the government is only obtainable to businesses that barely needs a financial support but can not apply for a loan because of inadequate security.
There are indeed many grant and loan programs for small businesses, including many that are administered by state or local government, rather than the federal government. Having pointed to the drawbacks, there are many genuine government grants for both small businesses and individuals available, and these can be substantial. That's you'll actually be able to access whatever grants, services and resources are available, because the nonprofit organizations are the ones who work with indidivuals and provide "service delivery.
First, let's take a look at what type of grants are available. The allure of these so-called small business grants is understandable. If you are interested in looking for a company that can provide you with small business administration grants, you can try searching through the World Wide Web for information.
If you are considering starting your own home business in the near future you should consider researching small business grants and loans now. Federal Grants provides detailed information on Federal Grants, Federal Pell Grants, Federal Government Grants, Federal Grants For Small Business and more. Small Business Loans provides detailed information on How To Get A Small Business Loans, Minority Small Business Loans, Small Business Bad Credit Loans, Small Business Government Loans and more.
To conclude, small business loans are usually awarded to all kinds of businesses to help them to begin and to succeed in their trading. The government is more than willing to help out businesses especially with the economic condition that still remains volatile and unpredictable and with the need for more economic development.
Author: M Zuraimy
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Smart cooker
Orignal From: Business Grants
Where To Find Small Business Grants For Your Start-Up
Grants are given every year for a variety of reasons, from small business start-ups, continuing education, preserving historic monuments, to art. Business grants are usually given to applicants that have a solid business plan, and the more detailed the reports are, the better chance of getting the grant.
When starting up your own small business, the first priority would be to find start-up capital. The best capital to get is the small business grants such as free grants that you never have to pay back, or other types of grants that are more like loans and require repayment with interest.
New business owners and existing business owners are eligible to apply for business grants. There is a wide array of Federal business grants available such as Free Government Money for Minorities, Free Government Money for Women, and Obtain Free Government Money for equipment, rent, offices, expenses and overhead
There are numerous sources to find the best business grants:
* The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance is a major provider of business grant money.
* The Federal Register is another good source to help you keep current with the continually changing federal grants offered.
* FedBizOpps is another great resource, as all federal agencies must use FedBizOpps to notify the public about contract opportunities worth over $25,000.
* The U.S. Government's Grants has its own website where you can find, obtain information and apply for many of the grants that are available.
* Government's Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) provides a listing of Government grants and other types of assistance that you can receive.
Federal law mandates that government agencies and private foundations give away over 1 trillion dollars to individuals and businesses. Foundations are required by law to distribute 5 percent of their market value assets or interest income annually, whichever of these amounts is greater, or risk losing their tax-exempt status.
The incentive for giving away grants is great. First, elected officials seeking reelection give away billions in government cash so that people vote for them; second, big corporations save a lot of money in taxes by giving money to foundations.
Another option when starting your business would be to apply for private grants from foundations and corporations. Foundations award grants to businesses that are able to help the foundation reach its long-term goals. In the United States there are more than 65,000 private grant foundations which award more than $20 billion to applicants. Two good resources for private grants are the Foundation Center and the Council on Foundations.
Author: Susan Jan
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Pressure cooker
Orignal From: Where To Find Small Business Grants For Your Start-Up
Bar Stools
I thought renovating my pub would be a Herculean task, but it was a lot easier than I thought. Once I started picking out counters, colors, the wall dcor and even the bar itself, everything just seemed to fall easily and naturally into place.
Why, I can even say now that it was a rather enjoyable experience, similar perhaps to putting together a life-size jigsaw puzzle and seeing the big and beautiful picture materialize right before my eyes. The truth is, the only thing which wasn't easy to pick was the bar stools.
Ive had my old bar stools for years and have grown pretty fond of them, You know, theyre those sturdy steel mounted saddle bar stools, embedded in the concrete foundation, that you think youre never ever going to be able to take out. I hardly gave them a second thought, but once we got around to redesigning the bar, they became my biggest problem. They were comfortable, no doubt about that, with their padded leather bar stools which made you never want to get out of them, one reason I believe why my regulars would stay put until the wee hours of the night. Thing is, the seats of the bar stools were far gone and way beyond repair. Whats even worse is, once we started to look around, we realized that they don't even make that style any more.
Thats been a sort of a puzzle to me. I had the kind of bar stools that were mounted into the ground permanently, which is a good thing because they dont ever get knocked over or get thrown around during fights. But this being the case, you'd think that they'd make them modular, with seats that can be easily interchanged. Not so. We searched almost everywhere and called every bar stool manufacturer in the phone book but many of the seats we cam across just couldn't even be removed. I mean, whats the point of having bar stools that will last forever when their seats wont?
Ripping the bar stools out of the concrete was out of the question, because that would cost a fortune. Also, getting new and completely custom-made stools would have cost a pretty penny too. What I ended up doing was to hand re-upholster each of the stools myself. It was a terrible pain in the neck when I started out, and I was livid and grouchy, but once I realized the fun of getting to pick out, design, and build the bar stools myself, I quickly warmed up to the idea.
Now, my pub has re-opened, and everything looks just perfect. I just love seeing the faces of my regulars when they see my new-look pub for the first time. And the good thing is, business has never been better.
Author: Philip Culver
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Wordpress plugin Guest Blogger
Orignal From: Bar Stools
Creating A Winning Bar Business Plan
Running a bar may seem like a lot of fun, like a full time party, but it is important to understand that the bar business is first and foremost a real business, and it is important to give it the due diligence and seriousness that it deserves.
==Marketing Your Business Effectively==
This means that even the most casual bar owner will need a good bar business plan in order to get off to a good start.
Getting a bar business up and running is never an easy process, and creating a professional and detailed business plan will help you plan for the future, market your new bar business effectively, and increase your chances for success.
==Detailing Both The Challenges And The Opportunities==
Getting a new fledgling business off the ground is one of the most difficult things anyone can do, and it is important that your bar business plan detail both the challenges and opportunities the new business is likely to face.
Being honest about things like the level of local competition, the potential legal issues the bar is likely to face, and other issues, is the best way to reassure potential investors and nervous lenders.
==Make Sure You Do Not Cut Corners On Your Bar Business Plan==
The business plan you create will be one of the most important documents in your new businesses.
When starting a new business, whether it is a nightclub, a bar or a disco, it can tempting to want to get the business up and running quickly, and to cut corners on creating the business plan.
==Your Bar Business Plan Should Be As Complete And As Detailed As Possible==
It would be a mistake to do so, however, since the bar business plan will be the cornerstone of your new enterprise.
Your business plan will come into play not only at the beginning, when you are seeking that all important startup capital, but down the road as well.
Every time you need to take a loan or attract investors in order to expand the business or overcome temporary difficulties, the business plan is the first document any potential lender will want to see. It is important, therefore, for the business plan to be as complete and as detailed as possible.
==Your Business Plan Can Help With Minimizing Your Tax Burden And Planning For Legal Liability Issues==
A bar business plan will also be important when it comes time to minimize your tax burden and plan for legal liability issues.
Planning for, and minimizing, legal liability issues is particularly important for the bar owner, and a good solid bar business plan will help you plan this important issue in the most effective manner possible.
Author: Shaunta Pleasant
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Guest blogger
Orignal From: Creating A Winning Bar Business Plan
Save Thousands on Your Home by Utilizing California Refinance
Whenever I hear the word refinance or mortgage, I start to get nervous. In California, most folks like to relax, enjoy the sun, sky and surf (or mountains if you have em’) and not mess around with their hard-earned homes. But California Refinance can actually save people thousands upon thousands of dollars in mortgage payments, and can turn some people into full fledged home owners on beautiful, panoramic California property for far less money than they could have ever imagined. They can even look into purchasing homes that they never thought possible, or free up money to turn their current home into their fantasy home. Talk about California Dreamin’!
California has everything- Coastal property, beautiful parks, financial districts, a world-renown entertainment industry and a sublime wine industry. This makes California an extremely popular residential settlement zone. Permanent and seasonal home owners flocking to the West Coast, along with vacationing renters, have brought up market value considerably. Add this to the fact that California offers more benefits than other districts, and you have the perfect time to take advantage of the considerable opportunity this strong market brings by using California refinance to cut down on monthly payments, reduce loan lifespan, and find ways to make your interest tax-deductible.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. First a few quick points on refinancing for folks like me who just get tired of these terms just being bounced around without context. Refinancing a mortgage is simply taking out a new mortgage. When interest rates drop lower than your current mortgage rate, refinancing your mortgage could reduce your monthly home payments and free up cash to pay higher-interest debts or other expenses such as home maintenance. This strategy can end up freeing thousands of dollars for other expenses and pursuits, or it can be used to shorten the amount of time spent on paying for your home.
Many options exist through California finance. You can get a lower rate mortgage. You can transform an adjustable rate mortgage (known as an ARM mortgage) to a fixed rate, meaning no fluctuation in price according to a rising and falling real estate market which can be an expensive gamble. A first and second rate mortgage can be again changed into a single lower rate mortgage, and cash is available for family expenses. All this can be provided by California refinance as there is a focus on offering all different variations of home refinance loans, and unlike more conventional lenders, California refinance providers are more receptive and helpful to unique situations and financial constraints.
The bottom line is that california refinance helps homeowners to cut down on monthly payments by reducing interest rates and payments. Providers can also assist with attaining cash needed for debt consolidation and home maintenance. Borrowers with good credit history can be offered competitive rate programs, borrow up to one hundred percent of their financing and change their fixed and adjustable rates. California finance supports buyers that other providers might turn a blind eye to by working around homeowner problems such as bad credit history, nonpermanent employment, bankruptcies, slow payments, etc. In short, a world of options exists to save any and all borrowers money, time and trouble.
Utilizing California's refinance secrets will allow you to put your money into more pleasurable pursuits. Whether you are catching a wave or a movie, sipping some Sonoma wine or an L.A. nightclub martini, strolling by the golden gate bridge or by old faithful, or simply spending some quality time in your one-hundred percent bought and paid for home let California refinance worry about the mortgage. You sit back and enjoy life.
Author: Christopher Luck
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Orignal From: Save Thousands on Your Home by Utilizing California Refinance
Lawsuit Loans - Caveat Emptor!
If you have been injured in an accident it is quite likely that you have been financially stressed as a result, and are in need of an advance against your insurance claim, lawsuit or other legal action. If you are looking for someone to lend you money based on your future settlement, BEWARE! There are reputable sources available but, unfortunately, there are many more disreputable ones as well. In this article we will explain what to look for in a funding company and how to avoid being burned.
First of all lawsuit loans are not really loans they are non-recourse investments and are not subject to usury laws. To avoid the usury limits, which would render the product economically infeasible, the typical lawsuit loan or lawsuit funding transaction is done in the form of an investment rather than a loan. This means that the funding company only gets paid if the lawsuit or claim is successfully resolved. If you lose your case you own them nothing! Generally speaking, this non-recourse element renders the transaction an investment (not a loan) under the law[1].
In the past, there were no sources of help available to personal injury victims due to a strange confluence of circumstances.
1. Bar Association rules of ethics prohibit your attorney from lending you money for anything but case expenses, experts, tests, travel to the doctor etc. This rule exists for your benefit. The Bar is rightly concerned that if your lawyer lent you money against your future settlement, a conflict of interest might arise, and you could be pressed into accepting a settlement that was less than you otherwise would accept. Also, attorneys are not banks and they simply cant afford to operate their law practice and be a lending institution as well.
2. Banks and traditional lending institutions do not have the skills to evaluate personal injury lawsuits and thus, will not lend money to someone whose primary asset is their lawsuit.
About seven years ago, this void in the financial system started to be filled by a number of entrepreneurial companies some good, some bad. It was a rather strange group consisting largely of lawyers, wall streeters, and well-heeled business people. They used their own capital to fund cases and a new industry was born.
In these early years fees were very high and contracts very severe. While rates generally ranged from 3% to 6% per month, it was not uncommon to see contracts with rates of 15% per month, compounded! Contracts were also very Byzantine. However, rates have steadily come down and contracts, while not exactly consumer friendly yet, have become less severe. In short, the business was maturing into a responsible part of the specialty finance industry.
However, over the past two years or so, American Cash Flow Corporation[2], a marketing company with a rather checkered history, targeted the industry for promotion. Since then, the lawsuit funding industry has resembled a Wild West gold rush attracting an unbelievable number of get-rich-quick rip-off artists, amateur lending brokers with no experience and just plain folks who paid their $5,995 ($2,495 for the tape course) to become a cash flow broker and are trying to make their fortune.
Virtually all of these cash flow brokers are just that brokers. They do not invest their own money to fund lawsuit advances. However, they all do have websites that trumpet their expertise without revealing that they have none and are not acting as principal. If you are not careful dealing with them can make your situation worse much worse.
Tips for shopping for a lawsuit funding:
Deal with a company that is investing for its own portfolio. Otherwise, you could wind up paying a great deal more than necessary. Do not deal with brokers - someone has to pay the brokers fee and that someone is you! Would there be so many brokers if their commissions were not high?
Deal only with certified websites. When applying online, deal with a website that has the seal of Trust-e or one of the other recognized non-profit website privacy confirmation organizations. Your personal information may be used improperly.
Do not supply information that is not otherwise discoverable. Certain information is privileged (between you and your attorney) but that privilege is lost once it is shared with a third party. An inexperienced funding company may require information about your case that, once in their possession, will lose its attorney-client privilege and may be subpoenaed by the defendant. Experienced companies like CapTran www.captran.com never ask for this type of information.
Look for the best rate. Some companies like CapTran offer best rate guarantee. If CapTran approves a case and makes an offer, they will match or beat any legitimate competitors written offer or pay you $200. (You only get the $200 if they fund the case or you turn their offer down for some other reason.)
Do not make multiple applications with different funding companies. First of all, you have no way of knowing if that company is going to try to sell your deal to one of the others to which you have applied (which will not sit very well with the real funding source). Multiple applications create a nuisance for your attorney since he or she will have to complete many requests for information. Your best bet is to make an informed choice and work with that company.
Check with your attorney. Never sign a complicated contract such as a lawsuit funding agreement without first consulting with your attorney.
Questions to ask a funding company:
1. How long have you been in business?
The lawsuit funding industry is very young and has a great number of brokers and inexperienced companies with no real money. A sure tip-off is if the company advertises a mind-boggling array of financial products and services including note purchasing, account receivable financing, structured settlements, purchasing of lottery winnings etc. They simply want to shop your funding application until they find someone with money to fund it. Meanwhile, nothing is really happening with your application. If a company advertises that they work with a network of investors it simply means that they have no real funds of their own and therefore, cannot make a funding decision themselves.
2. How many cases have you funded (approximately)?
CapTran for example, has handled over 10,000 funding requests and invested in several thousand of them.
3. Do you use your own money or are you a broker for others?
Be wary of companies that are members of the American Cash Flow Association as they almost certainly have no experience. Also be wary if a human never answer the telephone, as that is surely an indication of the level of service you are likely to get.
4. Who owns your company?
5. What is their business experience?
6. Do you have lawyers and paralegals on staff?
7. What the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) you charge?
(If you are quoted a monthly rates see the next question.) You will probably be told that it depends on your case, which is true, but they can tell you what they charge for a typical case. If they tell you there are no typical cases hang up and go the next company on your list. You should expect to pay simple interest rates as low as 2% per month for a case where strict liability standards apply; 4% to 6% for a typical auto case, and; 6% or higher for medical malpractice. ANY rate higher than 7% per month can be bettered with a little shopping.
8. Are your monthly fees compounded?
Many companies advertise deceptively low rates but load up the contract with many charges and monthly compounded rates.
The most common practice is to charge an application fee and/or a closing fee that is sometimes 10% or more of the amount you are advanced. If you contract for $10,000 you might be charged an application fee of $500 AND another fee equal to 10% or $1,000 a total of $1,500 in fees. Now, here is the best part you will have to pay interest on $11,500 interest on the $1,500 you didnt even get! In this example, if you were charged a 4.00% compounded monthly rate the true annual cost is not 48% but 75%! In this scenario it would be cheaper to take a 6% simple interest rate from someone else.
DO NOT AGREE TO PAY COMPOUNDED RATES!
Almost every client we deal with thinks that their case will settle in a short while, but personal injury cases can drag on and on for many reasons and those compound fees can eat up all of your settlement if your case takes much longer than you anticipate.
9. Do you charge any fees or discounts of any kind?
This is very important as some firms charge a low monthly rate but add on application fees, discounts and other hidden charges that will dramatically raise the cost.
10. Will you send a sample contract to my attorney?
Any reputable company will do this.
11. Can you give me an attorney with whom you have done business for a reference?
Any reputable company will do this also.
12. Are you a member of the Better Business Bureau? www.bbbonline.com
CapTran is a member of the BBB online and subject to mandatory dispute resolution.
13. If not, do you have a mandatory dispute resolution policy? What is your rescission policy?
CapTrans policy allows for rescission for up to 5 business days after funding.
If you follow these tips and ask these questions, your chances of finding the right funding company and the best deal for you are excellent. Armed with a little preparation and the age old admonition, caveat emptor let the buyer beware, you can successfully obtain a pre-settlement advance that allows you to stay the course and get a much better case settlement.
Footnotes
[1] This is a complicated topic but, generally speaking, if repayment of any part of the principal or interest is contingent on an event that is more than a mere colorable hazard, the transaction is not considered a loan and not subject to usury laws.
[2] American Cash Flow Association ( ACFA ), also known as the American Cash Flow Institute ( ACFI ), American Cash Flow Corporation ( ACFA ), National Mortgage Investor's Institute ( NMII ), Diversified Cash Flow Institute ( DCFI ), among many other names were all founded by Orlando lawyer Laurence J. Pino , who reprimanded by the Florida Bar Association for misusing an investors funds.
On June 20, 2003 the State of Tennessee issued a Cease and Desist Order in which the State charged that American Cash Flow Corporation together with 12 related businesses and 12 named individuals operated an illegal securities scheme that promised to make investors through the business of brokering cash flow transactions. Pino was cited by the Attorney General of Tennessee in 1996 for a similar scheme under the name of Diversified Cash Flow Institute . At that time DCFI paid fees and costs to the state of $10,284 for violating the Tennessee Consumer Protection Act of 1977.
Noted Columnist Jane Bryant Quinn also wrote disparagingly about Pino and his operations in The Washington Post 0n June 18, 1998 "Note Brokering: Harder Than it Sounds"
"Pino, 46, a lawyer in Orlando, Fla., describes himself as an "exceptional business trainer." His seminar experience goes back to 1983 - not always in the best of company. He first lectured for huckster Charles J. Givens Jr., who ran some dubious financial-planning organizations. In 1993 and again in 1996, juries decided that Givens had committed fraud. Later, Pino taught for Dave Del Dotto, an earlier popularizer of "cash flow," who settled an FTC action in 1996 with a $200,000 fine. (Del Dotto went bankrupt; the FTC says he never paid). Pino himself was reprimanded by the Florida Bar Association in 1988 for misusing an investor's funds."
And in Newsweek reporter: Show Me The Money" "Larry Pino's pricey cash-flow workshops plug an easy way to get rich quick. It's a real business, all right -- but there isn't much easy or quick about it."
Wayne C Walker
President of Capital Transaction Group Inc
www.captran.com
"CapTran" a leader in Litigation Financial Services
Author: Wayne Walker
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Orignal From: Lawsuit Loans - Caveat Emptor!
Writing A Restaurant Business Plan To Help Your Business Grow
At one time, every chef has dreamed of opening his or her own restaurant. Indeed, owning a restaurant of your own can be a great way to put yourself squarely in charge of your own financial future.
There is a good reason why owning a business remains such an enduring American dream. There is a freedom that comes with knowing that you are responsible for your own future success.
== Things To Consider ==
For those considering opening the perfect restaurant, however, there are many things to consider. The failure rate for new businesses is notoriously high; an this is true for newly opened restaurants as well.
Therefore, it is very important for the potential business owner to spend as much time and effort preparing and creating a business plan as they do finding the perfect location and the best restaurant ovens.
== The Strengths And Weaknesses Of The People In The Business ==
It is important to take stocks of your own individual strengths and weaknesses when creating that business plan for the new restaurant. For instance, if your strengths lie in the financial field, you may be able to create the financial and budget portions of the business plan on your own.
The potential restaurant owner will likely be able to detail the actual equipment that will be needed to open the restaurant, as well as the monthly rent or mortgage for the location of the restaurant.
== Seeking Out Assistance ==
When it comes to some other parts of the business plan, however, the entrepreneur may need to seek some outside assistance.
For instance, few restaurant owners double as tax or legal experts, so it is important to seek qualified, independent help when preparing the legal and tax portions of the business plan.
== The Key To Getting Financing ==
A solid business plan is a complicated document, but it is an important one as well. The properly prepared business plan is the key to getting the financing that will be needed to get the restaurant doors open.
A business plan will also be important when seeking private investors or business partners. Any savvy businessperson will want to look carefully at the business plan before deciding to give up their hard earned money.
Author: Shaunta Pleasant
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Guest blogger
Orignal From: Writing A Restaurant Business Plan To Help Your Business Grow
Top 10 Things NOT To Tell Angel and VC Investors
I am not writing this to create a list of things not to say so people can hide the facts or in any way mislead potential investors. On the contrary I personally believe you must be 100% upfront with any potential investors, and even volunteer some weaknesses to be credible. I am writing it to help entrepreneurs and CEOs design these issues out of their business so they never have to say them. Although there are certainly many exceptions to these, as a general rule there are many good reasons why all of these things should not be part of your company, if you are looking for outside investors. I have discussed some of the logic why, but this should not be considered a comprehensive discussion of the reasoning behind each item. You should also realize some of the reasons are a function or perception, of the market. I would never say they all make sense all the time. Each situation is always different.
Most entrepreneurs greatly underestimate the difficultly and time required to succeed at this task. They also underestimate the opportunity cost to their business while they are away focusing on something else. You only want to raise outside capital, if you really NEED to have capital to grow. I am recommending to many CEOs I coach and mentor today that because it is so difficult to raise money today, and valuations are not great, it would be a far superior alternative to spend the same amount of time selling, or adding value to your business in other ways, than to spend six to twelve months chasing investors. In many cases spending the same amount of time and effort selling your products, or service, could generate just as much money and not dilute your ownership and subject you to the whims, regulations and covenants of bringing in outside capital. This does not, however, mean you should not develop a complete business plan. This process will greatly increase your chances of success whether you are raising outside capital or not.
1. I have not invested my own cash in the business, but have only put in lots of sweat equity. Experienced investors know that a start-up is a roller coaster ride of both highs and lows. They want founders to prove their commitment by investing their own money to the point where it will REALLY hurt if they walk away during tough times. Skin in the game is your vote of confidence, so dont expect others to invest if you dont. This does certainly not have to be all your personal net-worth, but it must be a significant portion. You can take out a home equity loan, borrow or withdraw from retirement funds, or just invest personal savings. In the end this will pay off, if you do it right, because it will make you more efficient with capital usage and allow you to bring in investors later, after you have created some value and increased your company valuation. Ultimately, if you are successful, you will likely own more of the company as a result.
2. This (or that) market research firm said this market will be a $2 billion market in five years, so all we need is 5% of that market to build a $100 million company. Counter institutively this is basically saying you have NOT done your homework, and do not really know who your customers will be. This is top-down, not bottom-up market research. Besides most of these analysts firms lost huge credibility when the bubble burst and people realized some projected numbers beyond what the population of the entire planet for Internet users. You need to describe, if not actually list, the exact customers where you can win in most cases and why. Research says that 32% of angels site weak market analysis and analysis of the competition as the most critical mistake entrepreneurs make in their business plan. You must design your launch strategy around a particular customer profile and offer something that that customer cannot get elsewhere. Smart investors would prefer an unfair advantage in a smaller focused market, because the marketing and selling costs will be lower (concentrated) and the sales close rate higher. This also shows you know what you are out to accomplish and are focused on a smaller market you understand well and can win.
3. My spouse (or any immediate family) will be our other senior officers. Or we are going to use my brothers company for distribution (or anything else). Investors do not like nepotism and also know that a divorce could destroy the company. They are taking enough risk already, so why should they add another layer of risk with the divorce rate at 50%? Why should they believe out of all the management in the world your brother is the best qualified? Also, there can be no conflict of interest issues with deals that could be perceived as favored or the result of nepotism. This allows for shifting of costs and revenue in ways that are totally legal, but at the same time unfair to the investor due to subjective factors. This is fine in a wholly owned private company owned by a single individual (a lifestyle company), but should not really ever happen with outside investors. Enron, Adelphia, Worldcom and Tyco are perfect examples, and these have made everyone more aware of how easy it is to abuse executive positions. It is even possible that in the future institutional investors who allowed this could be perceived as violating their fiduciary responsibilities and have liability. After the fact, if something went wrong and the company shut down, the perception could be that things were done improperly. The room for interpretation on the dissolution of assets could easily be perceived as improper, even when it is done right, due to the wide room for judgement on the value of the remaining assets of any company that is closing. Since this is effectively a fire sale prices will be well below fair market value. In short, avoid any and all conflicts of interest, whether real or perceived.
4. I am going to also be doing some consulting to cover my expenses because of my low salary. Or I have other businesses to run also. Or anything else I invent I will personally own the rights to. These are all variations of the same theme. You are not fully committed to the business you want them to put their money in. This might work for Donald Trump, but for anyone who has not made his or her first $25 million dont expect that kind of latitude. Investors want and deserve your full-time attention as soon as they invest. This might be OK while you are pulling together your plan and dont have outside investors yet, but investors are buying YOU lock, stock and barrel and want your full-time attention and focus. This not only means your time at the office, but as a CEO, or any senior executive really, it also means they want to own your thinking in the car and shower, and all your ideas that are a result of your work.
5. We have it all figured out. The fact of the matter is that the only guarantee you can make is the plan will evolve and change and the business plan is pretty much guaranteed NOT to happen. Only naive investors would think you are going to do everything that the plan says and not make changes as you go. If they really believe this, you probably do not want them as investors anyway. If you say this, you are basically saying you are wet behind the ears or unrealistic. Besides, if you really had it all figured out and proven, you probably would not even need their money, you would be bankable and pay prime rate instead of twenty to fifty percent per year to get equity dollars.
6. We have everyone we need on board in management to be successful. If this were true, you are either spending WAY too much money on staff, or you do not understand the skills you will need to bring on as the business grows and evolves. This is never true and saying it is like waving a flag saying I am an amateur. All investors assume you will need to hire other key players and set aside a stock option pool for that purpose.
7. We are going to sell this product to everyone (even in a single industry), because everyone can use it. This worked during the bubble for a while when $30 million was being dropped (foolishly) at a pop to fund some broad horizontal plays. Today, the smart money is mostly funding companies going after niches, and maybe some verticals (with top management teams, ideas and markets). Virtually every company today needs a market entry strategy that is narrow and focused to establish them as the go to company for a particular problem or solution. You NEED to be the big fish in a small pond first because small fish in the ocean get eaten alive more often than not. You can add niches, products or expand to an entire vertical later after proving every element of your business in a single niche. By the time you get there so much can change it is usually even a waste of time figuring out what that order will be in advance. Markets and technology are too dynamic today.
8. We have no competition. This is virtually never true, as people are doing something to deal with the problem you solve today. If you are a restaurant then the grocery store across the street is your competition. You can almost never view a market that narrowly, unless you just got the patent on nuclear fusion, even then coal, oil, hydroelectric and solar are still competition. Besides you really cant know who else might be working on the problem and if it is an attractive market you will clearly have followers. So you need to articulate how you will stay ahead of competition either way.
9. Only our management team is qualified to develop and execute this business. This is about as false, naive and arrogant a statement as anyone can make, so dont even come close. To say you are the only people in the world who can do this is not only terribly unlikely, it is in FACT something you can not possibly know for sure, because you dont actually know everybody else do you? So it is always a false statement and shows overconfidence. It is better to err on the side of saying something like: we know there will be competition and here is how we will be cheaper, different, better and/or faster.
10. Our projections are very conservative. This is the most overused expression of the lot and I would guess it gets said in more than ninety-percent of investor presentations. The fact is that entrepreneurs are always optimistic; they wouldnt be entrepreneurs if they were not, as they are certainly fighting the odds. Any good investor is going to make their own judgements on the ramp rate of sales and expenses anyway, so this is better left unsaid. The fact is you never know because you never know if there are fifty other companies working in stealth mode on the same idea. According to research 32% of angels site unrealistic financial projections as the number one mistake made by entrepreneurs.
11. We dont know how much money we need, or we can do it on anything between $500K and $10MM. Investors want to know you have a solid plan. They also all have a certain amount they want to invest. Do your homework and understand exactly who you are talking to. You should know exactly what you are asking for before you go in and have a business plan with a financial plan that matches this. Asking for the wrong amount is as good as blowing the presentation entirely. Although you may be able to execute a business plan more slowly, yet successfully on less capital, and you may have a couple of scenarios figured out (you should), you can really only show one plan to any particular investor.
Level of Management Team Needed
Getting investors today requires a strong team, idea and market (not the same as idea). What level of team do you need to have a good likelihood of obtaining angel financing? Here is a chart of the level of management team you will likely need and you can interpolate between these levels. Currently, you will likely need to reach level five to bring in any angel investors and probably a level 8 to get any money from VCs. This also assumes you have an attractive, and large, potential market, some barriers to entry and a good head start or patent protection.
Conclusion
You need to pull out all the stops today to obtain angel financing. This means getting further on less money than ever before. Which in turn means better focus and using virtual company techniques to get much further on your OWN personal resources, and/or friends and family money. It also means pulling together a team of people that address all the major risks in the business. This requires creative deals to bring people in and probably not be paying them, certainly not full-time, while you are creating real value in your business. Investors want to invest in something that already has value built in, not an idea or business plan with a one-man show today.
The most common mistake made today made by entrepreneurs is going out looking for money before they are ready. The competition is fierce out there, so dont burn your best personal contacts by approaching them with an incomplete or undeveloped business plan or company. If you have not successfully raised money before, get help from someone who has. C-Level Enterprises offers a complete financing review and critique that is guaranteed to improve your chance of obtaining financing. Go to www.CLevelEnterprises.com for further information. Also see www.StartupPlanet.com for audio courses on raising investor capital.
Author: Robert Norton
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Orignal From: Top 10 Things NOT To Tell Angel and VC Investors
Restaurant Mortgage Refinance
Historically, from the borrower's perspective, financing restaurants properties has been cumbersome with limited loan options. Further on restaurant loan refinances, borrowers face even more limitations as the SBA (a leader in financing this building type) typically does not perform refinances. Borrowers are left with a limited pool of lenders that remain cautious within this category and offer conservative underwriting guidelines, like max 60% loan to value and debt coverage ratios of 1.4 or more.
Despite these restrictions owners do have some new loan programs that have become available in the last few years. 30 year amortizations as well as stated income loans are a few examples.
From the lenders perspective, the special use nature of the buildings themselves, as well as the relative high rate of bankruptcy/foreclosures within the restaurant industry makes lenders cautious. Another issue is the high level of seller financing which further complicates and creates additional risk for banks.
Underwriting focuses on traditional fundamentals, loan to value, debt coverage ratio, strength of tenant, credit worthiness of borrower, and property analysis to make their funding decision.
Debt Service Coverage Ratio restrictions are typically conservative at 1:1.3 to 1:1.4 for this building type. Meaning that for every $1.30 of net income (income after taxes, insurance, repairs, etc) the property produces, the mortgage payment will not be allowed to exceed $1.00. Said in another way, after all expenses and the mortgage have been paid, the owner will need to net $.30 to qualify for the refinance.
Due to the cash nature of this business, stated income loans, (where borrower does not have to provide tax returns) can be a solid option for owners that do not show enough net income to qualify for traditional loans. With this type of loan the DSCR discussed above is not relevant.
Loan to value restrictions on restaurants refinances are typically capped at 60% on both rate and term or cash out refinances. However, there are lenders that will allow high leverage with seller held financing (sits in second lien position). The combined loan to value can be as high as 90%. For example, if the current first lien position existing convention loan is at 40% loan to value and the seller held is at 30% loan to value the owner could pull an additional 20% equity out on a cash out refinance on the first position loan (40% + 30% + 20% =90% CLTV).
In the case of investment restaurant refinances, tenant evaluation is important but not as critical as it is on some property types. Lenders may request tenant financials as well as borrower financials and scrutinize the time left on the current lease; among other information.
Great caution will typically be used as market value and market rent is evaluated and compared to the subject property. Value is typically calculated in the most conservative of manors. Some lenders will want to use the value of the building in its shell condition. Basically if the borrower defaults the lender wants to be guaranteed that the value will still be there if they have to strip the building down to its studs. Age, appearance, location, accessibility, and local market conditions, as well as other factors are important as well.
The personal credit worthiness of the borrower will be scrutinized. 680 credit score is normally the minimum for the best finance options. Exceptions can be made (on a limited basis) as some conventional lenders will consider scores as low as 640. The net worth and experience of the borrower will make a major difference as well. Lenders will almost always require personal guarantees. Normally lenders will want to see a minimum of 2 years management/ownership experience to qualify.
Author: Jeff S Rauth
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Orignal From: Restaurant Mortgage Refinance
Business Loans: Make An Intelligent Decision
You need a lot of resources for effectively managing your business. The purpose may be to start a new business project or plunge into a hitherto unexploited domain. Your purpose will define your needs – the requirements may be huge or small. All this calls for serious thinking regarding the type of loan that you should avail.
Business loans are widely available in the UK financial market. Apart from private individuals offering business loans, there are many other options also. Many government-sponsored schemes, designed to assist new businesses, are in the market. There are many ifs and buts when it comes to government grants and loans. These loans depend on many things like where you intend to locate your new business and the type of business. The rate of interest is low in these schemes.
But, business loans are more freely available in the open market. You have a few conditions there. Broadly, lenders provide two types of business loans – secured and unsecured. Mostly, to get a business loan [http://www.apply-4-loans.co.uk/business-loans.html], you should hand over your business proposal, along with your loan application form. An exhaustive and well-drafted business plan will help you get business loans easily. Lenders will assess your business plans and strategies on merit and then accordingly dispose off your loan application. The whole process does not take much time. Lenders understand your business needs and try to minimise the time needed in loan processing.
All secured business loans call for collateral; unsecured loans do not have such a requirement. Secured business loans are easily available and also attract a low rate of interest. But, unsecured ones involve comparatively high rate of interest. You should consider both the merits and demerits of these loans before deciding in favour of any loan. This will help the borrower make a better decision.
Author: Braden Fred
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Programmable pressure cooker
Orignal From: Business Loans: Make An Intelligent Decision
Bad Credit Business Loans - When Your Credibility Becomes Secondary to Bad Credit
A business stands firm on the ground with the help of funds. Every business man would know that without finances one cant establish or advance a viable business plan. Not everyone is born with the kind of money required for furthering a business plan. Bad credit is so prevalent and this is the reason why we have bad credit business loans.
In practice, bad credit cannot prevent you from having bad credit business loans. Bad credit business loans can be difficult to find but they are certainly not impossible to find. Writing a good business loans application is key to getting it approved. There are a few things that the lender wont neglect while providing you with business loans for bad credit. Business plan and its feasibility are crucial for bad credit business loans. Along with that lender will look for equity, collateral and repaying ability.
Now credit history is fundamental to getting a business loan approved. Since you have bad credit, you should start with your credit score. Obtain your credit report from any of the three credit reporting agencies Experian, Trans Union and Equifax. Many people are unable to understand what the report and credit score signify. Credit score is given after studying the data in the credit history
Late payments
The amount of time credit has been established
The amount of credit used versus the amount of credit
available
Length of time at present residence
Employment history
Negative credit information such as bankruptcies, charge-offs, collections, etc.
A
Bad credit business loan lender will usually use a FICO score to identify your bad credit. Fico score ranges from 340-850. The lower your score is the chances are you might be seen as a greater credit risk. Any business loan borrower with a credit score below 600 is considered as bad credit. Here the business loans application will be approved with the added compensation of higher interest rates and down payment. Higher interest rate is attached to bad credit business loans. Research would be an investment worth it while finding a bad credit business loan. Comparatively low interest rates are possible for bad credit business loan.
You should be aware of your exact credit score before you apply for bad credit business loan. In case you have improved your credit score since you last saw, you can get lower interest rates. Credit repair may be a good step before you apply for bad credit business loans. Bad credit will not vanish immediately but there will be a gradual improvement. Dont make credit repair without thinking for it may backfire. For shutting down a credit card because the interest rates are high, can harm your credit score.
Bad credit would not be the only criteria for getting business loan. If you can prove the ability to repay in spite of bad credit your loan will be approved. Bad credit business loan application should have
nature of your business
the objective of using the business loan
business name
Your social security number
proof of ownership
letters of reference
contracts, tax returns
financial statements, credit references
Incorporation or LLC organizational document
It is important that a lawyer reviews your bad credit business loan application. Read the fine print and check carefully for things like hidden charges, including annual fees, bank charges, closing costs, commissions and balloon payments.
50,000-200,000 is the range for bad credit business loan. This will depend basically on your loan repayment ability. Try to make a claim that is practical for your situation. Failure to repay will have serious repercussions on your credit which is already marred.
A business loan works in exactly the same way as a personal loan, the only difference is that it is the business doing the borrowing, not the individual. Bad credit business loans are used for a variety of reasons, including starting a new business, purchasing an existing business or refinancing an existing business. Whether it is to alleviate cash flow problems or fund future activity, a loan can provide a business with instant funding.
You are in record a financial risk you may not be that otherwise. Bad credit business loans are meant to argue against the record in favour of the creditability of the person himself.
Author: Natasha Anderson
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Smart cooker
Orignal From: Bad Credit Business Loans - When Your Credibility Becomes Secondary to Bad Credit
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