A startup business, regardless of form, generally will find it difficult to obtain outside financing. The statistical failure rate for new businesses is high, and many lenders view financing the startup business venture as extremely risky. Banks and other creditors generally will require a significant capital investment by the business owner, and a personal guarantee that the owner will repay the loan. Corporations may issue securities to pool capital from a large number of investors; however, the costs of complying with complex federal and state securities laws may be prohibited, and there is no guarantee that a market will exist for the securities of a new firm. Likewise, limited liability companies may increase capital by admitting more members, but will need to offer prospective members some likelihood of return on their investment. Thus, as a practical matter, startup financing for the new venture — whether it is a sole proprietorship, a partnership, a corporation or a limited liability company — often is limited to what the owner and others closely associated with the venture are able to raise.
