Sunday, June 23, 2019

How To Choose The Best Project Financing Option For Your Business

By Frances Sullivan


The success of businesses depends on availability of finances. While a lot of people raise capital, a lot of entrepreneurs are looking for project financing from third parties. A lot of financiers are available to provide support but you do not pick money from every lender or financier that comes your way. How do you determine what to take and what to drop?

What terms of repayment have been given? The terms make it reasonable to take money or leave it. You must get a reasonable period to begin repaying. You also need to repay an amount that does not send you into bankruptcy. The best financiers give you a chance to stabilize before repayment begins. Choose a financing option that is flexible and would allow you to negotiate the terms later if the need arises.

What is the rate of interest and are there fees you will be required to pay? Such terms determine how much you pay beyond the amount you had borrowed. Compare what difference finance institutions or investors are offering. These fees will determine the amount left as profit. They should be within industry rates and friendly to your nature of operations.

How easy and comfortable is it to access the finances? This relates to your qualification as a business or entrepreneur. You should have met the requirements for accessing the funds. Further, safeguard your copyright, business structure and stake even as you get finances. You should get the money comfortably and operate without terms that disadvantage you.

Is the financier offering more support beyond the money? This is a bait that many seed investors will use. They connect you to potential clients and distribution channels. This means that you are reaping more from the relationship than just money. However, take care not to cede ownership or future opportunities because of such an arrangement.

The reputation of your brand must never be affected by working with a particular investor or financier. Some organizations and individuals have the money to invest but their reputation would mean that you miss out on particular markets. It pays to wait for your reputation to grow other than ride on a brand or personality that will cost you more in the long term.

Protect your mission from manipulation because of finances. Change of mission takes away control over the business and dilutes your influence. You also have to change the course of your business into one that is unknown or uncertain. The change of mission or idea can only happen upon mutual agreement.

What will the investor do in case funds for repayment are not forthcoming? While all businesses are set up for money, challenges crop up that make it difficult to get these finances. You should get lenient terms that do not cripple your business when there is a cash crunch. Renegotiating the finances should be an option.

Your mission for the project should inform all steps towards sourcing of finances. Work with partners whose finances, support and dedication will make it easier to reach your desired destination. You must have the freedom and confidence that a financier is the best partner for the business.




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