Equity and Debt Financing
Debt and equity financing are two different financial strategies: Taking on debt means borrowing money for your business, whereas gaining equity entails injecting your own or other stakeholders¡¦cash into your company.
Debt Financing
Business owners may have some trepidation about borrowing from a financial institution, as it means relinquishing some cash profits. But it could be a good option so long as you expect to have sufficient cash flow to pay back the loans, plus interest. The major benefit for debt financing, unlike with equity financing, you’ll retain full ownership of your business. The interest on business loans is also tax-deductible, and you’ll build your credit.
Equity Financing
Small business owners when weighing debt and equity financing options often opt for equity financing because they have concerns about either qualifying for a loan or having to channel too much of their profits into repaying the loan. Investors and partners can provide equity financing, and they generally expect to profit from their investments.
Most businesses have a mix of debt and equity financing. Too little equity could prevent you from securing or repaying loans, while carrying little or no debt could indicate that you are too risk-averse, and that your business might not grow as a result.