Network among trade groups and business organizations. They can make referrals to individuals and angel investors or venture capitalists.
Seek counseling through SCORE, volunteers who provide free education and information to small businesses. The nonprofit group is a resource partner with the Small Business Administration. Find local counselors at www.score.org
The SBA's Web site provides a wealth of information on loan programs and other financing: www.sba.gov Counselors are also available at SBA's Baltimore district office: 410-962-6195.
[Sources: SCORE, interviews with experts]
Web Tips
Below are Web resources that provide information for the new and established entrepreneur.
RaiseCapital.com: www.raisecapital.com
FundingUniverse: www.fundinguniverse.com
Go BIG Network: www.gobignetwork.com
The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation: www.entrepreneurship.org, www.eVenturing.org
National Venture Capital Association: www.nvca.org
Stanford Technology Ventures Program, Educators Corner: http:--edcorner.stanford.edu/
Counselors to America's Small Business: www.score.org
Small Business Administration: www.sba.gov
Angel Capital Education: www.angelcapital education.org
