7 Ways to Financing a Franchise Business

After you have found the franchise business of your dreams, the next step financing it. Although some people are fortunate to have massive savings built up, the average person will need to finance their investment. It is never easy coming up with large sums of money all on your own, but we have taken the time to list the best and simplest ways to find funds to finance your dream business!

1. Investors

Inviting investors to invest in your business is something you will want to prepare for in advance. Have a proposal ready with your business plans, goals, financial needs, and record of your achievements and past business ventures. If your franchise has a well-known brand, then make sure to note that the business is likely to succeed. Finding investors will not seem easy at first, but the more you get into it the more confident you will be and more likely to find interested patrons.

2. Retirement Money

A lot of new business owners run the risk of taking money from their 401k or other retirement funds to finance their business. While this is a risky step for a new entrepreneur, it is much less risky when you are opening a franchise, as the success rates are significantly higher. As long as you keep a tight budget, and remember to put money back into your retirement, it can be a very smart and fairly simple way to finance a franchise.

3. Borrowing from Friends & Family

If you have friends or family who have money and a good sense of their finances then you might want to consider giving them a call. If you do not know one person who could loan you the full amount then consider borrowing smaller amounts from a handful of people.

4. Bank Loan

Getting a loan from a bank can be more difficult, especially in our current economy, but it does come with benefits. However, bank lenders will want a lot of information, financial history, and collateral to convince them to lend to you. Be prepared with a full business plan, including past business ventures and all new information on your current project.

5. Loans from SBA

The Small Business Association (SBA) is dedicated to helping people who want to start a new business. Many new franchisees look to the SBA, and find their process fairly simple and painless compared to other options. Take a look at their site or just give them a call to find out what you will need to qualify for a loan. Remember, it does not cost anything to ask a question.

6. Franchisor

Your franchisor may have a franchisee money-lending program to help them help you. It is in your franchisors best interest that you do well, and if they are confident in their own franchise plan, then the may be willing to help you seek out financing. Additionally, your franchisor might have alliances with banks that could help you get approved for a loan.

7. Leasing Equipment

Although not a direct financing method, by leasing equipment for your business instead of buying it you can greatly reduce the amount of money you will need to open your front doors. Remember, any finance help is good, and equipment for your store is likely to be rather expensive.