Finance my project

Financing your business: the three main sources of funding

Your financial plan has helped you assess your financing needs. Now you need to find the funds! Equity, debt, grants and subsidies: an overview of the three main sources of funding available to business founders.

1. Equity

These are funds contributed directly to the company, with no obligation to repay by a fixed date:

  • personal savings,
  • the “3Fs”: Family, Friends & Fools,
  • equity stakes in the company, for example by private investors.

2. Debt capital

This means borrowed funds that will have to be repaid:

  • private loans,
  • bank loans.

3. Grants and subsidies

The canton of Fribourg and French-speaking Switzerland have several financial support bodies, offering loans at favourable rates or guarantees:

In addition to this financial support, there are:

  • crowdfunding platforms,
  • competitions for start-ups and entrepreneurs,
  • in-kind support: legal advice, access to testing or production facilities, etc.

Where to start?

Each source of funding has its advantages and constraints. The right mix depends on your project, your needs and your tolerance for dilution or debt. A Fri Up coach can help you identify the options best suited to your situation.