Raising funds for early-stage companies is a crucial aspect of starting and growing a business. It is especially important for businesses that may not have a track record or significant assets to leverage. While debt financing is often considered, many early-stage companies are not lender ready.

Here are a few alternative ways that early-stage companies can raise funds:

• • Angel investing: Angel investors are high net worth individuals who are willing to invest in early-stage companies in exchange for equity.  They typically provide capital in exchange for a percentage of the company’s ownership and a share of the profits. Investing in early-stage equity involves a high level of risk, as there is no guarantee that the company will be successful.
  • Venture capital: Venture capital firms invest in high-growth companies in exchange for equity. They typically focus on companies that have the potential to scale quickly and generate significant returns.

From the perspective of an investor, early-stage equity involves a high level of risk, as there is no guarantee that the company will be successful. Raising funds for early-stage companies that have little to no revenue and no proven track record of success, can make it difficult to predict their future performance. It may be difficult or impossible to sell early-stage equity investments, as there may be no secondary market for the shares. Unfortunately , many early-stage companies do not make it past the startup phase, which means that investors often lose their entire investment and therefore need to be compensated for their risk with significant upside.

• • Crowdfunding: This involves raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, usually through an online platform. Crowdfunding can be a good option for companies that have a compelling product or idea and can effectively pitch it to a wide audience. There are several types of crowdfunding, including reward-based crowdfunding, where backers receive a tangible reward for their contribution, and equity-based crowdfunding, where backers receive an ownership stake in the company.
  • Government grants: Some government agencies and organizations offer grants to support small businesses and startups. These grants can be used to fund specific projects or to help with general operating expenses. To qualify for a grant, companies typically have to meet certain eligibility requirements and complete a grant application process.
  • SBIR/STTR Grants: SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) grants are a specialized type of funding provided by the US government to support small businesses in conducting research and development (R&D) work. These grants are administered by various federal agencies and are designed to help small businesses bring new technologies and innovations to the market. The SBIR program is designed to support small businesses that are working on innovative projects in a wide range of areas, including science, technology, engineering, and medicine.
  • Bootstrapping: This involves starting and growing a business with minimal outside funding, typically by reinvesting profits back into the business. Bootstrapping can be a good option for companies that have a strong cash flow and can generate revenue quickly. It allows the company to retain full ownership and control, but it may limit the company’s ability to scale quickly.
  • Incubators and accelerators: Incubators and accelerators are programs that provide support and resources to early-stage companies in exchange for a small equity stake. These programs often provide mentorship, workspace, and access to a network of investors and industry experts. Participating in an incubator or accelerator can be a good way for companies to get their start and quickly gain traction.
  • Partnering with larger companies: Partnering with a larger company can provide access to capital, resources, and expertise that can help a small business grow. This can be done through strategic partnerships, licensing agreements, or acquisitions.

Raising funds for early-stage companies can be challenging, but there are many options available beyond traditional loans. By exploring these alternative sources of capital, early-stage companies can often find the funding they need to get off the ground and grow.

About the Maricopa SBDC
As the lead center in Arizona, the Maricopa Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has a talented team of Small Business Advisors ready to assist small business owners with access to funding, as well as tools and resources. Visit our website to learn more.

About the Author:
Lou Farina is a Small Business Advisor with the Maricopa SBDC. His primary focus is on helping early stage technology companies commercialize their innovations. Additional expertise includes strategic advising, angel investing, capital formation, and economic development.