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A recent Gallup study reported that 70% of American workers are unhappy in their jobs, noting lower productivity and engagement among those employees. By contrast, U.K. data from the Office for National Statistics published in the Guardian found that 77% of U.K. workers in 2010 said they were somewhat, mostly, or completely satisfied. These figures aren’t directly comparable because the surveys asked different questions.
Workplace dissatisfaction, combined with high unemployment, has helped drive a boom in entrepreneurship. Many former employees are launching online ventures, while others start traditional businesses.
Small entrepreneurs can often self-fund, but larger operations with big inventories usually need outside financing. In places like Silicon Valley, venture capital seeks unique startup ideas and early-stage companies, but not every business fits the VC model—some are better served by options like invoice finance.
Common funding choices include personal savings, credit cards (not recommended), peer-to-peer lenders, or friends and family—though loans from loved ones should be documented to avoid damaged relationships. Larger, more established firms may also access commercial financing, but that isn’t available or appropriate for every company.
If you have a small idea, consider using saved funds—just a few thousand dollars or pounds—to cover initial costs. If the idea succeeds, you can pursue other financing; if it fails, you won’t be heavily in debt.
Some creative projects have been financed by maxing out credit cards—for example, the Blair Witch Project. That worked out for them, but if the project fails you’re left with debt and no income, so this route is risky.
Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter let creators set funding goals and deadlines while supporters pledge contributions, offering a community-driven way to raise money.
Peer-to-peer sites such as Lending Club and Prosper match borrowers with individual lenders; consumers can invest in loans and borrowers must repay with interest. (Disclosure: I invest in both Lending Club and Prosper.)
When involving friends and family, be aware of the risk to relationships if the business fails. If you value the relationship more than the money, consider treating the contribution as a gift. If you expect repayment, document it with a proper legal agreement.
Whichever path you choose, do your homework: write a business plan, study the market thoroughly, test your idea, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
Entrepreneurs: how are you funding your business?
