I have the reverse problem of most startups... within two years I built a solid and unique brand, with a high media profile and street cred, proven content and products, and a passionate audience of over 240,000 people and growing. But although people congratulate me daily on my success I'm literally exhausted and starving. People circle me daily wanting to "sponsor" me, but I've found most of them want to make money *off* of me, not pay me and help me grow. Fact is, I'm accepting now that I just can't do it all by myself and I don't even WANT to... but I'm a victim of my own quick success. Without a staff and resources I can't expand, grow and monetize as I *need* to in order to meet the demand. [more inside]
posted by miss lynnster on Jul 13, 2011 - 42 answers

I need an SBA loan yesterday. My business is in startup mode, I'm already fielding new orders, but I need startup capital to get this thing off the ground. [more inside]
posted by ohyouknow on Oct 8, 2009 - 11 answers

A while ago, I started this open-source project called StupidFilter. Things are proceeding well, albeit a bit more slowly than my initial rather optimistic estimates. Recently, a local venture capital firm contacted me about the project and I've got a meeting with them on Friday. Now, I've got a business plan, and I think it's a pretty good one, but I'm not sure what they'll be expecting or looking for. Anyone have experience with getting a tech startup off the ground with VC funding? [more inside]
posted by signalnine on Feb 16, 2008 - 14 answers

How much money do I need to start my business? And am I foolish to think I will be able to do this?? [more inside]
posted by bacall423 on Nov 7, 2007 - 22 answers