Where to Find the Money: Grants, Equity, Debt, and Retained Earnings

​Wondering if starting a business is a good fit for you? One of the biggest questions people have is simply: where does the money come from? This class answers that — clearly and practically.

​Capital is out there for good ideas, but only if you know where to look and how to ask. This class breaks down the four primary sources of business funding and helps you figure out which ones fit your stage, your industry, and your goals. Whether you're eyeing a grant, thinking about investors, considering a loan, or wondering if you can grow from your own revenue — this class gives you a clear map of what to do..

​We'll cover:

• ​Grants — federal, state, and local programs (SBIR, STTR, CalOSBA, and more) and what makes an application competitive

• ​Equity — how angel and venture deals work, what investors expect, and when equity makes sense

• ​Debt — loans, SBA programs, and CDFIs like California Capital FDC, and how to approach lenders

• ​Retained Earnings — how to use early revenue to fund growth without giving up ownership or taking on risk

​You don't need to be "investor-ready" to attend. You just need to be curious about how the money works — and ready to figure out which path fits where you are right now.

​Part of the CleanStart Summer Small Business Power Series | In partnership with StartupSac and made possible by support from the Carlsen Center, SMUD, Chico Start and CalOSBA