It takes money to make money. That is the plain and simple truth in business. A shortfall of capital is one of the most commonly cited reasons why a company is unable to expand business and succeed. The prospect of getting financing for a start-up even in a growing economy is very difficult due to the fact that business owners lack operating experience and solid credit history.

America's credit crunch environment is making it tougher than ever for entrepreneurs to raise money to start or grow their businesses, particularly minority-owned firms. A study released by the Minority Business Development Agency found that minority-owned firms are less likely to receive loans than non-minority-owned firms, especially businesses with gross receipts less than $500,000. The tightening of lending standards on traditional loans means minority businesses have to become more vigilant about their funding sources.

Today, only 59 percent of small businesses are able to obtain adequate financing, reports the National Small Business Association (NSBA). That number has steadily decreased in the last five years. Banks don't finance dreams, says Todd McCracken, president of NSBA. They finance businesses that are likely to be successful. Your company has to have a good financial track record and a solid business plan, he adds.

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