Funds Currently Available, and Sources of Funding

(From the tutorial, Planning Your Internet Business: Startup Costs and Sources of Funding)

Every business requires investment in education, tools, marketing, and more. Funds currently available are those that you can use to help cover your one-time / setup costs, while Sources of Funding (ongoing) is the income available for your recurring expenses. Some sources of funding available include:

Employment income. How much can you set aside from your "regular job" to help fund your online business?
Savings. If your savings were to be used for another purpose (for example, a family vacation or buying a home), how much of it are you willing to 'sacrifice' for your business, even if it's meant to be a 'temporary' loan?
Lines of credit, credit cards, etc.
Help from family and friends. Consider the possible impact on your personal relationships. Borrowing money from loved ones can lead to significant stress... for example, what do you do if someone suddenly needs or wants their money back and you aren't in the position to provide it? What happens if your business fails and you are unable to pay back loans?
Other sources such as loans and grants. A good list of options is available at the US Small Business Administration website.

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