Do you have a dream in your heart about starting a business? You may have put it on the back burner until “someday” when you have the money to get started. However, did you know that you can start your business with little to no startup costs? These are some tips to help you get started.

Determine Your Initial Funding Needs

You may think you need to rent office, manufacturing or warehouse space. You could need equipment. You definitely need your business licensing. You have also probably heard about the need for marketing capital, and you could desire a staff.

Consider How You Can Cut These Expenses

Now, consider what you can do without. First, can you start your company in your basement or garage or at your kitchen table? Do you have a computer you can use for now? You may have opportunities to rent or borrow equipment, or you may purchase it second-hand at a highly discounted rate. In addition, you can take advantage of many free marketing opportunities, particularly word of mouth in your community.

As your business grows, you can add staff, rent your space and purchase additional equipment. However, you aren’t likely to need everything at once. You may also find opportunities to start that require smaller investments, such as working with an existing manufacturer to build your products. If you have a service company, your expenses may be much lower.

Research Opportunities That Offer Financing

If you don’t have a specific business idea or have one that is similar to an existing company, you should research franchise opportunities. In many cases, these businesses offer financing. They also provide training, vendor sourcing, employee handbooks and almost everything else you need. However, you may need a specific amount of savings, so read the paperwork carefully.

Look Into Crowdfunding Opportunities

Today’s technology has provided opportunities to get funding in unique ways, such as through crowdfunding platforms. You should create a business plan, outline the funding you need and offer worthwhile rewards. In some cases, you can find investors who can really help you for a portion of your company. However, you can also find small investors who may just want products after you receive the money and begin the manufacturing process.

Consider Other Funding

Finally, you can use personal loans, second mortgages, equity lines of credit and SBA loans. However, make sure that you can handle the payments. You can also ask friends and family members to help you until you can afford to hire staff.

Your startup is just a few steps away. Investigate all your expenses and financing options to get your business off the ground.