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<span class="basic_member_name">Bridget St John</span>
Bridget St John
Producer/Musician/Writer
Federal Way, Washington
Posted by Bridget St John, Federal Way, Washington | Oct 06, 2008

Subscribe to  Indie Biz Q&A Question: Business finance planning...

I have a dream business I’m working on, but there are many things I am not sure of how to proceed on making it come true in the next few years.

There are so many different types of specialists out there that help in various aspects of building and maintaining a business. Thanks to the folks I’ve hired on Biznik, I have sculpted out my vision, but what about financial planning and location? Where do I start in finding funding options? Who do I hire in helping me with these things, i.e., financial counselors, business partners, investors, bank loans, best place to settle, etc.?

This is a small business with a physical address, as opposed to an online business. I am looking for a few people who will, in the next few years, not only advise but involve themselves in helping me make my dream come true.

So, I’m asking for your suggestions, comments, questions, clarifications, leads, thoughts, love, hugs, and kisses.

Thanks for your input!


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5 Bizniks have posted replies

  • Andy Ciordia
    Posted by Andy Ciordia, Charlotte, North Carolina | Oct 06, 2008

    Not that this is the best moment for gaining traditional lending, I would say go find your local SCORE and SBA communities. In my area the SBA has Community Express loans that can help many people with good credit some small loans (<35k). They might also have programs based on ethnicity and gender.

    Getting in touch with them is a great thing from business review, educational series, and more.

  • Howard Howell
    Posted by Howard Howell, Seattle, Washington | Oct 06, 2008

    Bridget... I facilitate a workshop that helps you become "irresistible" to bankers. It could be very helpful for you.

    Contact me for additional information. ...Howard

  • Bridget St John
    Posted by Bridget St John, Federal Way, Washington | Oct 08, 2008

    Andy, thanks for your input! I was aware of SBA, but had not given their website the full attention it deserves. I was unaware of SCORE, however, and it looks like a fruitful resource. I signed up for their 1 hour class.

    Howard! Looking forward to catching up with you again. I hope to make one of your workshops!

  • Neil Champaneri
    Posted by Neil Champaneri, Seattle, Washington | Nov 19, 2009

    Hello Bridget,

    Congratulations on moving forward with your new business!

    If you would like, I'd be glad to meet over coffee to discuss some topics that I think you should consider in the earliest stages of your business, including selecting the right entity (sole proprietorship, LLC, S-Corp, or partnership), and developing a business plan that serves not only to communicate your ideas, but also to fine-tune your business strategy.

    I have an M.B.A. and my business partner has a C.P.A., we focus on providing effective finance, accounting, and strategic guidance to small and growing businesses.

  • Shaun Lawrence
    Posted by Shaun Lawrence, Irvine, Los Angeles, California | Dec 06, 2009

    I am wondering the same thing about getting a loan to fund my business that has only been established 9 months. Not sure I can get the funding. Any other with experience with the SBA please share. Thanks,