What this course covers
This credit course is full of practical information that can help you take your next steps toward borrowing. Topics include:
- The true cost of a loan
- Types of capital that are present in every business
- The difference between "good" and "bad" debt
- How much startup capital you need to get going
Tools
Interactive tools throughout the course can help you review important ideas and put them into practice for your own business. This course includes:
- Assess your startup costs worksheet
- Course quiz
Chapter overview
This chapter introduces you to three types of capital: financial, social and intellectual. We cover examples of capital from different types of businesses, some of which you might already be familiar with.
Key concepts
- Types of capital in every business
- Capital in action
Key terms
- Capital
- Financial capital
- Social capital
- Intellectual capital
Est. time to complete: 3 min.
Chapter overview
How much money do you need to start your business? This chapter will help you find out. Use our startup costs worksheet to estimate your expenses, and also explore common sources of financing.
Key concepts
- Sources of capital
- How much capital you need to make your move
- Separating business and personal finances
Est. time to complete: 14 min.
Chapter overview
Before you take out a loan, it’s important to understand what you’re signing up for. In this chapter, brush up on information about the total cost of a loan, including the principal, interest and fees.
Key concepts
- Basic components of a loan
- Understanding fees
Key terms
- Principal
- Interest
- Fees
Est. time to complete: 4 min.
Chapter overview
Not all debt is the same. Taking on debt responsibly can help your business expand, but too much debt can have negative consequences. This chapter will help you figure out if you’re borrowing the right amount.
Key concepts
- When debt can be healthy for your business
- The consequences of bad debt
- How to tell if you’re borrowing the right amount of money
Est. time to complete: 4 min.
Chapter overview
In this chapter, you’ll see an example of how one entrepreneur borrows money to help meet her goals.
Key concepts
- Understanding borrowing strategies
Est. time to complete: 3 min.
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