"Pre-Startup" Stage

When starting your business, it is critical to put the right foot forward. In this section, you will find a collection of resources to assist you in planning and making that very first step towards launching your new small business.

Business Plan

When sitting down to write your business plan, the first thing you must think about; what are your goals with this document? Are you trying to attract investors, get approved for a business loan, or are you applying for grants? Depending on your target audience, you will need to custom tailor your business plan to what they are looking for, but do not worry; it is not as difficult as it sounds. If you are looking to attract a venture capitalist or angel investor, you may skip the typical business plan and focus on a pitch deck instead.

• https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/how-to-write-a-business-plan-your-step-by-step-guide
• https://sumup.com/business-guide/how-to-write-a-business-plan/
• https://www.hiveage.com/blog/10-unbreakable-rules-for-writing-a-killer-business-plan/

Grants

• Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR) - a competitive grant program that encourages small businesses in the U.S. to engage in research and development for federal agencies. It's an awards-based program for high-tech innovation, overseen by our good old friends at the SBA.
• Economic Development Administration (EDA) - a U.S. Department of Commerce agency that offers grants, resources, and technical assistance to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation. Discover grant opportunities and search for your state's agency-each one helps local small businesses find financing, secure office space, and recruit employees.
• Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) - Your local SBDC provides support for small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs throughout the U.S. by helping existing businesses remain competitive in a competitive market. Often associated with the state's economic development agency, your SBDC can help connect you with financing, networking opportunities, and business mentors.
• The Visa Everywhere Initiative is a global innovation program that encourages small businesses to solve payments and commerce challenges.
• National Association of the Self-Employed (NASE) - This is one for you self-employed or independent contractors. If you're a member of NASE, you can apply for their small business grants. One grant is awarded per month up to $4,000. Login, set up an account, and read the grant guidelines before you start your application.
• Nav's Quarterly $10,000 Business Grant. Each quarter, Nav-a financing marketplace for businesses-awards a $10,000 grant to a small business (and two lesser grants for runner-ups).
• Eileen Fisher Women-Owned Business Grant - The grant program by women's clothing retailer Eileen Fisher awards a total of $100,000 in grant money to up to 10 female business owners each year.
• The Amber Grant - Awarded once per month, the Amber Grant gives $10,000 funding to a female entrepreneur. Each year, one of twelve monthly grant recipients gets an additional $25,000 in funding.
• US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Grants - The USDA offers a variety of grants for small businesses and nonprofit organizations operating in rural areas. They also offer a variety of business loans-so, if you don't qualify for a grant, you may be able to borrow money at zero interest.
• The Veteran Small Business Award - provided by StreetShares Foundation awards up to $15,000 to veterans or spouses of veterans that own over 50% of the business. It's mission is to inspire, educate, and support veterans as they start small businesses.
• The First Nations Development Institute - is a nonprofit organization that has successfully provided over $29 million total grant money to projects that help Native Americans, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians.

Personal Credit

Choosing Correct Legal Structure ('C' Corp, 'S' Corp, LLC, etc.)

Angel Investors

Your First Business Checking

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Early Startup (<3 year) Stage

Now you have started your businesses, it is time to make it grow.

Marketing

stevencarlson.show/@ConstantContact60DayFree

Additional Business Banking Options

Grants

Business Credit

Venture Capital (VC)

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Established Business (3+ years)

Now that you have started your businesses, it is time to make it grow.

Loans

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