Entrepreneurs get Capital Ready: This comprehensive workshop provides small business owners and startup founders with foundational knowledge and strategic tools for accessing capital. Participants will learn how to assess their loan readiness by understanding key documentation requirements, evaluating financial health, and preparing business forecasts. The session explores a wide range of funding options—from personal savings and crowdfunding platforms to bank loans, CDFIs, and alternative lenders—highlighting the pros, cons, and best-fit scenarios for each.
Attendees will also gain insights into aligning capital needs with the right loan products, understanding loan term structures, and building meaningful relationships with funders, including banks, credit unions, and community-based lenders. With a strong focus on strategic planning and personalized readiness, this workshop equips entrepreneurs with practical steps and resources to successfully pursue and manage funding opportunities.
Fundamentals of Accessing Capital for Small Businesses & Startups
Brief Introductions
Assessing Loan Readiness
• Business Plan Development/Proof of Concept
• Creating a 3-5 Year Forecast
• Entity Documents and Good Standing
• Personal Financial Statement Preparation
• Evaluating Credit Score
• Reviewing Recent Tax Returns (Personal and Business)
Surveying the Funding Landscape
• Equity and Bootstrapping
• Using Personal Savings
• Credit Cards and HELOCs
• Family and Friends Contributions
• Pitch Competitions
• Crowd Sourcing and Funded Loans
Taking a Strategic Approach to Capital
• Determining Capital Needs and Uses
• Identifying Total Capital Requirements
• Allocating Funds Across Multiple Uses
• Understanding Loan Products
• Term Loans (Equipment, CRE, Leasehold Improvements, Working Capital)
• Lines of Credit (Seasonal, Inventory, Receivables)
• Combining Multiple Loan Types for Comprehensive Financing
Building Relationships with Funders
- Connecting with Bank Branch Managers
- Understanding Lending Criteria and Small Business Opportunities
- Identifying Grant and Loan Programs
-Engaging with Local and Regional Banks/Credit Unions
Networking with Entrepreneurs
- Learning from Successful Fundraising Experiences
- Gaining Insights into Loan Proposals and Cash Flow Management
Presenter Bio:
John Schoeniger brings over 25 years of experience in community development finance, including 18 years as Loan Fund Manager at Detroit Development Fund. In that role, he was instrumental in facilitating the financing of hundreds of small businesses and affordable housing units throughout Detroit.
Before transitioning to community lending, John owned and operated a construction company and developed residential real estate, giving him hands-on insight into the challenges entrepreneurs face. He also served for a decade on both the Board of Directors and the Loan Committee for ProsperUS, helping shape strategy and expand access to capital for historically underserved entrepreneurs. He is also a founding Board Member of the Detroit CDFI Coalition.
Today, John is entering a new chapter in his professional journey—as a trusted advisor to small businesses and the organizations that support them. He is passionate about helping emerging entrepreneurs access the resources they need to grow, succeed, and create lasting impact in their communities.
