Other options

Government and other organisations give grants for specific projects or to buy specific equipment.

A business loan from a bank or a community development loan can be used for different purposes.

'Business angel' or 'venture capitalist' puts up capital in return for a share of the business.

Long-term loan for buying property.

Easy to get. Handy for small amounts that you will pay off quickly.

You may have to meet certain criteria to get one.

You must pay back more than you borrowed (even with 'interest-free' sharia-compliant loans).

Only suitable if you are sure that your sales will grow quickly.

If you cannot keep up repayments, you lose your property.

An expensive way to borrow if you don't pay it back quickly.

There are many other ways of getting money to help set up a business or start out as a freelancer. Click on the options in the list to find out more.