I am in the start-up phase of my business and I am REALLY struggling like most new businesses to find capital. I have done search after search for funding and because I am a single parent I do not qualify for loans due to my income level. I have tried the SBIR, and SBA for assistance only to run into a Wall. Does anyone here have any ideas on how to receive start-up funding for my franchise? I have 75% of the money for the start-up.

Thank you in advance for your wisdom!!;-)

Hello,

I completely understand where you're at. I recently opened a small business and experienced much of the same that you are now going through. After preparing a very detailed Business Plan (made possible with help from the Small Business Center of a local community college) I reached out to family and friends and friends of friends. Ultimately attaining most of what I needed.
If your business plan includes any flexibility I would start there - cut it down to the very basic minimum, especially if you already have 75%. I also used my credit cards to purchase initial inventory and although that was very a expensive way to start, it got me going...
Ive heard numerous times that banks, the SBA, or any "traditional" lending organizations will NOT lend to start-up businesses. I think it's true! Once opened you might have a better chance of getting some funding.
Sometimes Cities have a fund for small business initial start-up expenses. Check with your city...
Honestly, if you can overcome in this area and still open you'll probably do well once in business. It's a lot more than I ever imagined (especially in this economy!) and running a small business takes all kinds of savvy and ingenuity!