Financing a Small Business   

Understanding how to finance a business is an essential part of turning an idea into a sustainable operation. Financing a Small Business provides a practical introduction to the funding, credit, budgeting, and financial planning considerations entrepreneurs face when starting and operating a small business. 

Students will explore traditional and non-traditional sources of capital, different types of business loans, the factors lenders consider when evaluating credit, and the financial information businesses need to present. Through practical application, participants will develop a better understanding of how to assess financial needs and plan for both startup and ongoing operating expenses. 

This course is for: 

• Aspiring entrepreneurs preparing to start a business 

• Current small business owners and operators 

• Individuals exploring ways to fund a new business 

• Entrepreneurs preparing to seek business financing 

• Professionals supporting small business development 

• Anyone seeking a stronger foundation in small-business financing 

What You'll Learn: 

• Understand the importance of financial planning and budgeting for a small business 

• Assess personal and business financial considerations related to financing 

• Explore attitudes and considerations surrounding money and credit 

• Understand the Five C’s of credit: character, capacity, capital, collateral, and conditions 

• Compare traditional and non-traditional sources of business funding 

• Explore different types of loans and financing options 

• Identify local, national, and community resources available to small businesses 

• Understand the role of financial statements when seeking financing 

• Develop startup and operating budgets for a small business 

• Apply financial information to practical small-business decisions 

Course Format: 

• 15 hours of instruction, held across two Saturdays 

• Practical, small-business-focused learning 

• Application of budgeting, credit, and financing concepts 

• Focus on real-world financial planning and decision-making