Consider SBA-Sponsored Funding Opportunities

Typically, the SBA can guarantee as much as 85 percent on loans of up to $150,000 and 75 percent on loans of more than $150,000. In most cases, the maximum guaranty is $1 million. There are

First, be prepared. Know your business, the intended market, your targeted customers, your potential niche, projected financials, and your competition. If you've planned your business thoroughly and strategically, you're covered on the first part.

Allow your business plan to be the voice of your vision. Be sure to provide personal financial statements and tax returns for the business owners as well, as there's little or no company history for the lending decision to be based on. Most important are financial statements that include monthly cash flow projections, which list critical assumptions.