One of Goldman Sachs' charity initiatives is a small business program called 10,000 Small Businesses. It's a fantastic program that has funded at least six inspirational entrepreneurs, and a great opportunity for those looking to start a business, but don't have the funds.
Do you want to start a small business of your own but don't have any cash? Would you like Goldman Sachs to give you money to do it? The trick to exploiting their "10,000 Small Businesses" program is easier than you think.
In reading the profiles of the six entrepreneurs who applied for and won Goldman's help, we noticed they all have nine things in common. So naturally, you or your business should have these qualities as well -- and don't forget to make note of them.
To get Goldman Sachs to give you money, make sure your application mentions:
1. You want to expand. It's important that you have a business plan that includes expansion. "It's 'always be growing,' that's what they tell us," says one Goldman founded small biz owner, who runs a moving equipment company.
2. Your business will be great for the community. Goldman funds a neighborhood favorite fish market, for example. Take a cue from the owner and mention that by helping you, Goldman will help many.
3. You will "pay it forward." Goldman's chosen six are all charitable folks. It must be a job requirement.
4. Your father/mother/grandparent started the business. Tug at the heartstrings. It worked for five of the six winners.
5. You will create jobs. As in, you will "stimulate the economy."
6. Your business is "sustainable." Think about creating a company that builds something people will always need, rather than the next Snuggie.
7. Your business is all about relationships. Each of the small business owners really drives this message home: "I'm BFFs with the people I work with. I love networking, and find myself frequently forming and maintaining mutually-beneficial relationships with people."
8. You're not "mainstream." You offer a unique product that won't have too much competition.
9. You want to learn. This is pretty much a requirement on any application, so it's no surprise that each of Goldman's winners say something like, "I joined to learn about expanding my business."
So now that you know all of the ingredients you'll need if you want Goldman Sachs to give you money, check it out. As an added bonus, after you've completed your application, you'll have everything necessary to actually run a small business.
The email to apply is 10000SmallBusinesses@gs.com.
