DID YOU HEAR THE ONE ABOUT THE BANKER WITH A SENSE OF HUMOR? ME EITHER.

"The secret to humor is surprise."

Aristotle (384 BC-322 BC) Greek philosopher.

Smart guy that Aristotle; smart enough to know this doesn't work with bankers.

They don't like surprises and are not looking for humorous entertainment from those to which they've loaned money.

Do what you've told them you will do, when you've told them you would do it, or you will soon find yourself without a banker.

The Speed of Money

"Slow help is no help."

Proverb

This could come from a small army of entrepreneurs who, needing funding, were told by those who might be in a position to provide it, "our due diligence will take time."

But if it were your money, what would you do?

Start-ups: Who Can You Bank On?

"A bank is a place that will lend you money if you can prove you don't need it."

Bob Hope
Comedian

The humor in this would not have been obvious just a few short years ago, but today?

So, if you're just starting your business and need money, where will you go?

Is it really all that bad that banks will not likely prove to be a good source?

Start-Up Financing: Money For Nothing?

"As mortals, we are ruled by conditions, not by ourselves."

Bodhidharma
5th century Indian Buddhist monk

Looking for no-strings-attached money for your start-up?

It doesn't exist.

What are you willing to give up to get the money you need to finance your business?

Investment: Talking to Angels

"Angels are like messengers, but sometimes we misunderstand their language."

Linda Solegato
Author

Linda was likely referring to the heavenly type but the thought applies equally well to the investment version as well.

If you are looking for non institutional money to start or grow your business, learn the language of "angel" investors. If you do you will find it is as much if not more about what you will do for them as it is what they will do for you.

As it should be.

Funding: What It Takes

"Our greatest lack is not money for any undertaking but rather ideas. If the ideas are good, cash will somehow flow to where it is needed.

Robert Schuller

I doubt that Dr. Schuller would see his ministry as a business but in many ways I think it is; one possible exception being when it comes to raising money. In my experience for that to happen three conditions must be met in the following order:

1. Solid management
   
2. A detailed plan
3. A good idea

Without the first two, no pennies from heaven.