You don't need hundreds and hundreds of pounds (or dollars, or whatever currency you deal in) to start your own business: in fact, it's surprising how little you do actually need to get going. The sad fact is, though, that you do need a little bit of capital behind you when you start, if only to buy yourself some equipment, a website and some marketing materials. So how can you raise the money?
Firstly, is there anything you can sell?
Having a systematic de-clutter of old clothes, books, toys, electronic equipment and sports gear has the double whammy of a) collecting things to sell and b) making your house a tidier place. Win-win!
You can try selling on eBay or at a car boot sale, or stick a notice up in your local newsagents or community noticeboard.
Could you get some extra temporary work?
People always need good cleaners and babysitters although remember that for both you'll probably need a criminal records check. Or perhaps you can take in some ironing, walk people's dogs or even wash cars?
Would friends and/or family be able to advance you an interest-free loan? Tread extremely carefully when borrowing money from loved ones - at the very least, get some signed paperwork set up which sets out the details of the loan and the a repayment schedule. If you think it could lead to any family friction in the future, steer well clear.
Trim your costs
The other thing you could do is try and cut back on your day to day costs. If you're at work and buy yourself lunch and a hot drink every day, save yourself a potential fortune by bringing your own food and drink to work.
Turning our attention towards domestic economies, I can thoroughly recommend both menu-planning and batch cooking. When you're cooking something that will freeze well, like cottage pie or spaghetti bolognaise, make double portions and freeze half.
Buy your children's clothes in charity shops. Actually, buy your own clothes in charity shops. After a while, you develop an eye for bargains and things worth buying: coats, handbags, china, glassware and books can be particularly worth looking out for. Remember, it's not second-hand - it's vintage!
Turn the heating down a couple of degrees and wear warmer clothes. Stock up on (charity shop) fleece blankets and throws for when you're sat in front of the TV; you won't need the heating on so high if you're all snuggled up.
If you've got young children, try using flannels in the kitchen for wiping faces and highchair trays, rather than baby wipes or kitchen roll.
You might only make a few pounds here and there, but stick them away in a savings account (preferably one with the highest interest rate you can find) and you'll find your little bits of change will soon mount up into a more substantial sum.
Want more information and advice on setting up a home-based business?
Go to http://www.domestic-entrepreneur.com/ to sign up for the 7 day FREE e-course 'Kickstart Your Home-Based Business'. Domestic Entrepreneur is the one-stop information website for anyone who wants to start earning an income from home, for whatever reason.
Celina Lucas is the author of the Amazon Kindle books 'How to Start a Business When You've Got No Time - Or Money' and 'Article Marketing for Beginners'. She runs Domestic Entrepreneur.com plus her virtual assistance business Office Alchemy.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Marketing-Beginners-promote-business-ebook/dp/B0073WV7HS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1328628252&sr=8-1
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