Raising money to get a new business off the ground has proven to be one of the most challenging obstacles an entrepreneur may ever face. In many cases initial capital for a business is contributed from an entrepreneur’s own resources or family and friends. However, additional funding is often required to help operate and grow the business. Further, a start-up company’s financial needs will inevitably change as its business matures, as will the startup’s ability to attract and secure investors and lenders to fund its business. Thus, a startup company should explore the various financing options and capital raising considerations discussed below at various stages in its life-cycle.