It’s no secret—owning a business costs money. And finding funding when you don’t know any investors can be a major roadblock.

Here at Accelerating CFO, I encourage our clients to start off with a slight cushion. Whether it be money from your savings account, taking out a second mortgage, or having your friends and family pitch in, having a little goes a long way. A base point will help establish a strategic financial plan for the future and will keep our familiar friend, debt, at bay.

Maybe you don’t have the opportunity to ask those around you for the big bucks. But don’t fret: there are other options as well.

Running a business involves some serious planning, so before you even decide to go off on your own, attend networking events and conferences where potential investors are likely to frequent. Check out local startup meet-ups as well to make connections—you’ll never know whom you might meet once you’re out there.

Want to engage with “the people” and gain some much-needed capital? Look no further than crowdfunding: online platforms that allow companies to showcase their business and products through video campaigns and accessible donation buttons. Sites like gofundme, Kickstarter, and Indiegogo have helped raise over a billion dollars for creative projects and personal fundraisers. Not a bad idea if you want to reach your target audience before your company even launches.

Whoever contributes, make sure to let them know that while they may not get their money back right away, or even for an extended period of time, they are making an investment. And, if your business does well, their rewards for chipping in at the beginning may exceed their initial contribution.