With all the options available to entrepreneurs these days, it can be hard to figure out how to get funding for your startup, especially if you’re planning on doing this on your own or with the help of only your close friends and family members. However, if you plan ahead and prepare yourself well enough before approaching a potential investor, you might just be able to convince them that your business has what it takes to go big in today’s economy.

Before you start seeking out funding, it's important to make sure your business idea is actually viable.

When it comes to raising money for your startup, one of the best things you can do is use your network. Talk to friends, family, and acquaintances who might be interested in investing in your company. You never know who might be willing to give you the money you need to get your business off the ground.

The most common way to fund a startup is through self-funding, which means using your own personal savings to finance your business. Other ways to self-fund include taking out loans from family and friends, using credit cards, or tapping into your home equity.

You can also look into angel investment and venture capital investment.