Funding Your Business

Funding Your Business is a practical workshop designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners better understand how to access capital and position their business for financing success. This session provides a clear overview of funding options, financial readiness, and lender expectations. Participants will explore SSBCI-supported funding programs, learn how to reduce risk from a lender’s perspective, and develop a more strategic approach to securing financing. By addressing common funding mistakes and breaking down what drives lending decisions, this workshop equips business owners with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate capital conversations more effectively.

Topics:

• Overview of business funding options
• How to strengthen your financial readiness
• Key lender expectations and evaluation criteria
• Introduction to SSBCI funding programs
• How to develop a clear capital strategy
• Common funding mistakes and how to avoid them

Presented by:

• Daniel Hamala, Hancock Whitney Bank
• Kelly Raney, Louisiana Economic Development