Small Business Administration: The SBA offers a number of loan programs, including the most often used 7(a) program for starting, expanding or relocating a business and a microloan program for up to $50,000. To get started, visit a local bank or financial institution that participates in the programs. Here’s an application checklist: sba.gov/ content/sba-loan-application-checklist
Lines of credit: A personal line of credit can find new businesses, if credit and financial criteria are met. Crowdfunding. Sites such as Kickstarter or Indiegogo could help you to raise money for initial costs.
Venture capital and angel investors: Early stage companies open to shareholders and in need of growth capital may consider investors.
Tamiami Angels, Tamiami Angel Fund II (T2) Early stage through expansion- stage commercial ventures (239) 262-6300 tamiamiangels.com
Florida Gulfshore Capital, Naples Early stage companies, small- to mid-market growth opportunities (239) 659-0288 gulfshorecap.com
Go Beyond Network, Naples Early stage investing (941) 893-0881 legacy.go-beyond.biz
SI Ventures, Fort Myers Information technology, communications infrastructure companies (239) 561-4760 siventures.com
The Florida Venture Forum (flventure.org) also provides programs throughout the year.