SBA Lending: Down But Not Out

Although SBA lending is down sharply in 2009 compared to 2008, the movement of new activity as of late, is a positive sign of good things to come.  Even a slight increase in activity will give entrepreneurs some level of hope that a bigger credit thaw will happen in 2010.  In the meantime, entrepreneurs need to be creative and think outside the bank box for financing solutions.  Asset-based lending, factoring, PO financing and equipment leasing will continue to be viable solutions to today’s financing challenges.

4 Things Small Business Investors Are Looking For

Whether you are already in business and searching for additional capital and/or a new finance parter, or you are considering embarking on a new entrepreneurial adventure, there are some key criteria investors will consider:

1. A business plan that describes the market opportunity. The value the the business will deliver and its acceptance in the marketplace must be clear. In short, there must be a compelling reason the business exists. NOTE: An executive summary is key. Most investors do not want to see, nor will they take the time to review a 50-page marketing plan.
2. A capable entrepreneur. Since their money will be in your hands, the entrepreneur must convince the investor/lender of his or her competence, commitment and integrty. You are the business.
3. A realistic financial plan. You need to know how much capital you will need, when you will need it and how it will be deployed in executing the business plan. Sure, $1 million sounds great to any business owner, but is that really your cash need and how to plan to use it?
4. An exit strategy. How and when will the investors get their money back and what is the expected return on their investment?

4 Months and Still Going…

Multiple media outlets reported of the consistent 4-month uptick in SBA lending.  Better yet, all signs indicate that this type of lending will continue to increase through the remainder of 2009.  “I think it’s a continuation of the impact of raising the percentage that we guaranteed to 90 percent and the elimination of the fees to the borrower,” said Richard Temkin, U.S. Small Business Administration District Director. “And the banks’ credit requirements perhaps are loosening somewhat, though that seems to be a slow process.”

So, what does this mean for small businesses? This is an encouraging trend that hints that credit markets are starting to thaw from the deep freeze of early 2009 and that banks are increasing lending. For entrepreneurs who have been struggling for the past year, this is good news. Those who are fortunate to still have a traditional bank loan are more likely to keep it. Those of you thinking about starting a business and considering a SBA loan, might just be in luck. Overall, this is a positive sign that Michigan may have hung the “open for business” sign back outside its window.

Small Business Loans Criticized

Monday President Obama released a plan to increase the federal guarantee of small business loans to 90% and decrease fees associated with the loans. However, the action is being met with significant criticism. Read the Wall Street Journal article: Small Business Loans Criticized

Access to Capital Webinar

Entrepreneurs throughout the country are encountering challenges in gaining access to capital. With credit markets dried up and few banks lending to small businesses, it’s become increasingly difficult for small enterprises to get the working capital they need to grow their business. If you are interested in learning more about the financial spectrum and where to turn when your credit line shrinks, register for the upcoming “Access to Capital” webinar.

Thursday, March 18
9 a.m. EDT

E-mail name and company to: Nicole@macombcountychamber.com.

Entrepreneurial Do’s and Don’ts

Entrepreneurs are an industrious group. Their relentless curiosity and willingness to take risks often propels them to success. However, no one wants to take risks when it comes to financing their business. The financial landscape can be a confusing place for small business owners looking to establish or grow their business.

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