I’m short on funds to buy materials for a big order or upcoming show – any suggestions?
Ask for supplier flexibility and pre-sell orders first; use loans or credit only as a short-term bridge with a clear payoff plan.
Negotiate with suppliers first—ask for deposits or payment plans. Pre-sell products or take customer deposits to raise cash upfront and reduce risk. If that’s not enough, consider SBA microloans (often 8–13% interest) or a small line of credit as a last resort, with a clear repayment plan.
Use credit cautiously
Business credit cards or lines of credit can bridge a gap only if you can pay them off quickly. Avoid high-interest debt unless the order profit clearly covers the cost.
Cut costs and boost cash
Pause nonessential spending, reuse materials, and run a quick online sale or workshop to raise funds. Treat any borrowing as temporary and budget repayment from the confirmed order or event revenue.