Member Questions

The first thing you need to do is check your credit. Make sure your credit is stable enough for you to qualify for a loan. Next, check with your local bank. If you've established a relationship with them, they should be the first stop. Also check out Make Mine a Million and Count Me In. These are both organizations for women. I'd also take a workshop on obtaining financing from the SBA. See if any relatives or friends would be willing to loan the money (of course with a legally binding document complete with interest and payment arrangement documented). You may also look for angel investors (but I'd do some thorough research before taking this road).

Hope this helps.

Contact your local Chamber of Commerce, Economic Development Agency &/ or Planning Office (last 2 are government agencies - usually at the City or County level) There are tons of grants and low interest loans available you just need to be creative. Consider attending business mixer events sponsored by Chamber or local Rotary Clubs - these are generally filled with business peopel that knw the ropes adn have contacts. Don;t rule out small independent banks - thy often have more flexibility than the big corporate banks.

I believe there are several companies who give start up loans to women entrepeneurs. You could start out asking a local bank or do a google search. :) Good luck!