Is there any such thing as “extra funds” these days? Even the largest corporations are like squirrels hoarding their acorns after an infestation of gypsy moths that destroyed their beloved oak trees followed by several bad winters. Yes, it will involve more work and a bit more creativity, but there is money out there. Folks still want to make money.  In fact, many are still looking for ways to replace lost retirement funds.

First.  Think about real estate. Wait a minute.  Don’t run away from this blog. I know the housing market has been slammed. There are signs of slow improvement in the economy and housing prices are low. If you would relocate to launch your next enterprise, consider the fact that you might be able to get a comparable home at a lower price than your current residence and qualify for a larger loan than the actual mortgage.

Second. Think about the variety of banks. Although loan decisions are not as depicted in the classic movie IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE, but character and knowing people still matters in local community banks. Some community banks are quietly growing by acquiring customers who were furious about the bail outs of the huge financial institutions.

Third. Consider the US Small Business Administration (SBA).  They have “low doc” loans and lower interest rates. You’ll need a decent business plan, of course, but don’t assume you are too large to approach them.  After all, this blog is about the launch of a new enterprise.

Fourth.  Think about private investors. If your enterprise will net more than 10%, you’ll beat the results of many mutual funds.

Fifth. Review how much money you and your family really need to live on over the next year. Could you forego some of your salary so that a business partner or a franchisor would be willing to fund your start up?

Sixth. Don’t forget the economic development authority (EDA) in each state. They are charged with growing the economy, supporting enterprises with the potential to bring jobs to their states. Like the banks and the SBA, you’ll need a decent business plan.

Seventh.  Think about investment funds, angel networks, and even venture capital firms.  They aren’t seeing as many proposals these days, so you will not necessarily be shoved to the bottom on a long list. If your enterprise involves an exciting target market, an innovative technology, or international possibilities you have a better chance of a positive reception. Look for states that have favorable tax laws related to capital gains.  Private investors are less likely to go in with you if they will be hit with a huge tax obligation later.

Aldonna R. Ambler, CMC, CSP has earned the right to be called THE GROWTH STRATEGIST®. She has won over 2 dozen national and statewide “entrepreneur of the year” awards for the resilient growth of her international businesses across 4 recessions.  Her midsized BtoB clients get on…and then stay on…the published lists of the fastest growing privately held companies. She owns and operates a suite of companies that help privately held midsized companies achieve accelerated growth with sustained profitability® through opportunity & resource analysis, 4 approaches to strategic planning, executive advisory services, growth financing, and targeted search.  2012 is Ambler’s 8^th year hosting a weekly peer-to-peer-to-peer syndicated on line talk show that features interviews with CEOs/Presidents of midsized companies (typically between $20 and 200 Mil/yr) sharing success tips about the growth strategy-of-the-week. An archive of over 300 interviews is available at www.GrowthStrategistShow.com. She can be reached toll free at 1-888-Aldonna or at Aldonna@AMBLER.com.