Gift Basket Business Startup Costs and Funding Options

It is easy for people to say that a particular business model, such as a gift basket business can be started for a few hundred dollars. However when it comes to the point of actually setting up then you may find that it is just not possible to do things properly on such a small budget. Let's take a look at some of the startup costs associated with a gift basket business and some methods that you might consider for funding your new venture.

Startup Costs

A home-based gift basket business can be set up for under a thousand dollars and many people have grown huge business from such humble beginnings. However, if you want to start out seriously then you should plan on spending more than that amount. A startup budget for a home-based gift basket business could run over $10,000 if you get everything that you need right away.

Costs will include market research, business registration or incorporation, workplace and storage area set up, tools and equipment for production and packaging (such as a shrink wrapper), office equipment and supplies, stationary, branding costs, website design, pre-launch advertising and signage. Don't forget to add on a small amount for unforeseen or miscellaneous expenses.

Some businesses also include the first few months of operating costs when they work out the total startup requirements.

If you are going into commercial premises then you will also have costs associated with getting your store decorated and fitted out with shelves for displaying your products as well as the initial costs of taking on a lease.

Costs can be lowered by buying second hand equipment wherever possible or by leasing some of the more expensive items.

Funding 

When it comes to funding the startup costs for a gift basket business there are a variety of sources available.

As startup costs are generally low it is a good idea for the business owner to fund them independently and to avoid going into debt. If this is not possible and external funding is required then a small loan from family is often the best option if you can convince them.

Another option is to try and find an investor to take an equity stake in your business in return for a portion of ownership in the business. Investors will often want to have some input into the management of the business so you really have to make sure that your plans are along the same lines as theirs to avoid confrontation.

If you have a good account history with a bank then there are a variety of small business loans available with varying repayment schedules and interest rates. You will need to show the bank your business plan, show a willingness to fund at least some of the startup costs and offer them some form of guarantee that the money will be paid back.

Seeking a small business loan or grant from the government is a possibility but with so many applicants for these limited opportunities you really have to submit an outstanding application to even be considered. If you can prove that your business will give something back to the community or can commit to hiring workers who have been unemployed for some time then you will increase your chances.

Lastly, if all else fails, you can always take out some cash advances on a variety of credit cards. Many small entrepreneurs fund business startups this way but it can be risky due to the high interest rates that are involved. If you are confident that you will be in a position to start making repayments within two or three months then you will avoid being hit too hard with interest.

No matter how you go about financing your gift basket business just make sure that you prepare a budget and ensure that all funds are put to the best possible use.