You may be able to source funding from governments or from the private sector but keep in mind current or future cash flow implications for each option.
You should speak to your business advisor, accountant or bank about the type of financing that suits your business and its current stage of operation.
Private sector funding
A range of finance options in the private sector can help you with access capital to explore your business ideas. These include:
- Self-funding
- loans through financial institutions (debt finance)
- money from shareholders (equity finance)
- crowd funding
Government co-investment funds
State government co-investment funds invest in your business, matching a percentage of the investment from other sources of funding.
The South Australian Venture Capital Fund (SAVCF), launched by the state government, is helping South Australian companies grow to a national and global scale. The fund invests in dynamic and innovative early-stage companies to accelerate their growth.
The SAVCF is a co-investment fund, requiring each initial investment in a company to be matched with at least 50% investment from other sources – including venture capital funds or high net-worth investors.
Government grants
Federal, state and local governments provide a range of grants to help businesses develop new paths to growth.
Each grant has a specific aim and criteria and winning one may help you make decisions about your business.
Other funding
There are numerous other funding opportunities available to small businesses. These include:
- The federal government’s Small Business Export Loan for businesses looking to export their products or services.
- Indigenous businesses can access assistance from Indigenous Business Australia. This includes access to a start-up finance package, business loan or other finance products. Indigenous Business Australia provide economic development opportunities to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
