Finding Cash for Your Business

Start with a cash flow forecast

A detailed cash flow forecast* can help you pinpoint when you might run out of cash and identify the funding you’ll need to bridge the gap. Testing different scenarios, such as pricing adjustments or cost reductions, can also help you determine how to extend your cash runway.

Complete our cashflow forecast template* to determine when you’ll run out of cash or use your accounting software cash forecast function.

Sell anything not bolted down

Before seeking external funding, explore opportunities to free up cash from within your business.

You can:

• Review your balance sheet for assets you no longer need. This could include surplus inventory, unused machinery, or vehicles. Selling and leasing back essential equipment can also free up cash. Offer discounts to customers for early payment or encourage them to pay upfront.
• Hold a sale or return excess inventory to suppliers can raise immediate cash.
• Temporarily cut back on withdrawals from the business until revenue improves.

Looking closely at your business operations and making strategic adjustments will help you find valuable cash reserves without the need for external funding.

Secure external funding

If internal measures aren’t enough, consider these external funding options:

• A business term loan, line of credit, or overdraft can provide the cash you need to weather tough times. Talk to us about our business loan options.
• Refinancing existing loans can help lower monthly payments by extending terms or consolidating high-interest debt into a longer-term loan. Using business assets as collateral might also unlock additional funds.
• Explore U.S. government grants and programs that provide financial support to small businesses. Many states and cities offer grants or low-interest loans for businesses, and the Small Business Administration (SBA) offers funding programs like the 7(a) Loan Program or microloans for working capital.
• Check with your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for guidance on eligibility and applications.

Tighten your cash cycle

Improving how quickly cash flows through your business can make a significant difference:

• Ask customers to pay by credit card or set up automatic payments for recurring invoices. You’ll get paid faster, reducing the time it takes for funds to reach your business and helping to prevent overdue invoices. Offering convenient payment methods like credit cards or direct debits can speed up the payment process.
• Require deposits or progress payments for large projects. For larger contracts or projects, requiring upfront deposits or milestone payments means you’ll have cash on hand to cover initial expenses and reduce the risk of delayed payments.
• Perform credit checks on new customers and set strict payment terms. Protect your business by assessing the creditworthiness of new customers before offering extended payment terms. Implement clear payment terms, such as 30 days, and charge interest on overdue payments to incentivize timely settlement.
• Add online payment options to your invoices to encourage faster transactions. Platforms like PayPal^®, Stripe, or bank transfers can make it easier for customers to pay instantly, ensuring quicker cash flow into your business.

Tightening your cash cycle is essential for improving liquidity, reducing payment delays, and making sure your business remains financially healthy and agile. The faster you can turn your sales into cash, the more effectively you can manage operating costs and reinvest in your business.

Exploring investor funding and tapping family and friends

If your business is facing cash shortages due to growth opportunities or the need for additional resources, raising capital from investors could be a viable solution. Platforms like AngelList or SeedInvest, as well as local investor networks, can help connect you with potential backers who are looking to invest in promising businesses.

Working with a professional advisor is highly recommended to help you navigate the process properly and protect your business interests.

If external funding options are limited or not feasible, tapping into personal networks could be a last resort. You may consider borrowing from family, friends, or business colleagues, but it’s important to approach this carefully. Be sure to clearly document the terms of the agreement to avoid misunderstandings and preserve relationships. Treat this as a temporary measure and make sure both sides are clear on expectations to maintain trust and avoid any potential strain.

Next steps

• Begin by developing a detailed cash flow forecast to identify when you may face cash shortfalls and the amount of funding required to bridge the gap. Use forecasting tools or accounting software to model different scenarios and plan for the future.
• Review your business operations and balance sheet for opportunities to generate cash internally, such as selling surplus inventory, liquidating unused assets, or reducing personal withdrawals.
• If internal measures aren’t enough, explore external funding options like business loans, refinancing, or government grants. Reach out to financial advisors or your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to understand your eligibility and options.
• Implement strategies to accelerate cash flow, such as offering credit card payments, requiring deposits for large projects, and setting strict payment terms. Streamlining your cash cycle will improve liquidity and help your business stay financially agile.

Finding cash to keep your business afloat can be challenging, but with careful planning and the right strategies, you can meet the challenges of growth or tough times. Start by maximizing internal resources, exploring funding options, and tightening your cash flow. These steps can help you build a stronger, more resilient business.

*These resources are guides only and should neither replace competent advice, nor be taken or relied upon as financial or professional advice.