Small business owner, Michelle Sauzier, sitting at a table adding beads to a piece of jewelry.
When Michelle Sauzier, a marketing pro, started making gemstone bracelets to unwind after work, it was simply a creative escape — something to do with her hands at the end of a long day. “It became a relaxing hobby,” she said. “I’d sit with my husband Nico, talk and make something pretty for myself instead of scrolling my phone or watching TV.” But as the bracelets piled up, so did the ideas. With Nico’s background in architecture and a shared love of design, the couple decided to turn the hobby into a business.
Now, they’re laying the groundwork for their brand Meashell Jewelry — building a website, growing a customer base on Instagram and learning the ins and outs of being content creators.
Like traditional small business owners, creators face many of the same business challenges, such as inconsistent cash flow, limited lending options and a lack of real-world business knowledge.
“We’ve been using our own savings for materials and marketing,” Michelle explained. “But we don’t want to dip into that too much more, so we’ve started exploring other options — possibly even taking out a small business loan.”
Michelle and Nico’s story is one many creators can relate to: a spark of inspiration and the reality check that creative pursuits require cash flow. Whether you're a content creator, artist, designer or multi-hyphenate business owner, getting clear on your funding options is essential.
This guide to financing will help you understand how to fund your passion project — from self-funding and community support to investors and small business loans — so you can focus on making what you love and growing your business sustainably.
Know your numbers
Before you seek funding, you need clarity on two things:
- How much you need: Break it down into startup costs (materials, software, legal services), recurring expenses such as studio rentals and subscriptions, and aspirational investments such as travel for content, outsourcing and marketing.
- Visa’s Practical Business Skills startup costs estimator will tabulate your business startup costs, including legal fees, content supplies and marketing budget; determine what a business loan payment would look like; and whether your cash flow is enough to cover your payroll, purchases and more.
- How much you make: Be clear about your current revenue streams — whether it comes from your day job or your creator-generated ad income, brand sponsorships, merchandise, client work or contributions from family and friends.
Self-financing
If you're just getting started or aiming to keep things lean, bootstrapping can be a smart strategy. In fact, 78 percent of small businesses rely on personal funds to get off the ground, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.¹ The advantages? You can avoid debt and investor pressure, maintain full creative control and grow at your own pace.
To keep the momentum going, try to reinvest part of your monthly earnings to build a financial cushion and support future growth. It’s also wise to separate your personal and business expenses. Not only does a designated business card help you stay organized, but it also builds your business credit profile, helps you qualify for better terms and unlocks valuable rewards.
One perk to consider: Visa SavingsEdge program. By linking your Visa Business card, you can access Cashback Offers² and start turning everyday business purchases into real savings.
Business loans and lines of credit
Once you've proven your business idea and need a larger cushion of cash, it might be time to explore external funding. Microloans can be a great fit for creators with modest capital needs, while a business line of credit offers flexible access to funds — ideal for navigating seasonal income fluctuations. With a line of credit, you can borrow as needed up to a set limit and only pay interest on what you use.
Most financial institutions offer a variety of small business funding options, including loans and lines of credit. Shop around for competitive interest rates and repayment terms and make sure to borrow only what you can confidently afford to repay.
To boost your chances of approval, come prepared with a detailed business plan, a breakdown of startup costs and solid financial projections. Lenders may also request bank statements or past tax returns. If you're launching a brand-new venture, your personal credit and financial history may be considered in the application process.
Looking for a government-backed loan? Start with the SBA’s website to find trusted lenders. You can also explore alternative options on the Visa Small Business Hub like Lendio, a marketplace for small business loans; OnDeck, which offers flexible financing and personalized loan advisors; or Biz2Credit.
Grants and creator funds
Visa is empowering creators with its financial tools, resources and products that have helped millions of small businesses thrive globally. One way creators have access to financial education and business skills training is through Practical Business Skills.
For other programs that strive to uplift creators, look into local arts councils, government-backed SMB grants and mission-driven venture platforms.
Tip: Be ready with a portfolio, proposal or business plan to make your application stand out.
Tapping investors
Investors can provide the capital you need to launch your business or scale it to the next level. This funding typically comes in the form of venture capital or angel investments. You can connect with investors through equity crowdfunding platforms, social media, and live events like industry trade shows.
Venture capitalists often invest in exchange for equity and may also take an active role in guiding your business. Angel investors, on the other hand, tend to be individuals who offer funding in earlier stages, usually in return for a smaller stake and less involvement. Each investor has their own criteria, but most will want to thoroughly evaluate your business plan, financials and professional background before committing.
Crowdfunding and community support
When you’ve built a loyal audience, invite them into your vision. Crowdfunding platforms offer powerful ways for creators to raise funds directly from their audience. No matter which platform you choose, it’s important to offer exclusive content, behind-the-scenes access or custom rewards that make your supporters feel like insiders. Be transparent about how you’ll use the funds and treat your backers like stakeholders. They’re not just donating; they’re investing in you.
Finance with purpose
Funding your business isn’t just about raising capital — it’s about building something meaningful that lasts. Whether you bootstrap or pursue external support, stay true to your creative goals and personal boundaries. Explore more tools and resources for creators at Visa Creators.
- https://www.chamberofcommerce.org/small-business-statistics/
- Cashback provided as a statement credit on a future statement. Transaction must be processed through Visa.