This article appeared first in the Huffington Post Small Business Blog on June 23, 2013.
“Money makes the world go around, of that we can be sure,” sang Alan Cummings in the popular stage play “Cabaret.” Certainly, the half-million Americans starting new businesses in 2012 have reason to suspect the truth of those lyrics since raising capital, whether to fund a new technological marvel or open a franchised restaurant, is one of the most challenging aspects of starting a new business.
Unfortunately, the need for capital never ends. This means that understanding how to find and shake the “money tree” is critical. And before you begin your search, there are a number of crucial questions you must ask yourself – and answer.
