(NAPSA)—Finding the necessary fundingis a big problem for a number of small businesses. That’s according to a recent online memberpoll by the National Association for the Self-Employed (NASE). A majority of micro-business ces. owners surveyed (57 percent) ini- tially fund their businesses using personal savings, and many (40 percent) continue to use personal savings for ongoing financing. Only 11 percent of respondents felt that there are adequate funding resources available for microbusinesses, while three-quarters believe that funding opportunities are inadequate. Respondents pointed to credit rating, bank regulations, paperwork, and lack of collateral as the largest obstacles in gaining accessto capital. “It is no surprise that micro- business owners put their own savings on the line in hopes of building a successful business,” said NASE president Robert Hughes. “Micro-business owners need better and easier ways to access capital to start and maintain the businesses that are so important to this economy.” In response to this need, the NASElaunched the NASE Business Development Grant Program for A new grant program has been created to help small-business owners sustain and grow their businesses. members who want to grow their business. Assisting micro-business owners in sustaining and growing their businesses serves as the primary mission of this program. The National Association for the Self-Employed is the nation’s leading resource for the self-employed and micro-businesses, bringing a broad range of benefits to help entrepreneurs succeed and driving the continued growth of this vital segment of the American economy. For more information, visit the Web site at www.NASE.orgor call (800) 232-6273.
