How to Raise Capital for Your Small Business Without Going Broke

Raising capital can make or break your small business—but are you doing it the right way?

In this episode, NaRon Tillman sits down with business expert Marc Pickren to break down everything small business owners need to know about raising capital, managing debt strategically, and leveraging AI to stay competitive. Marc shares hard truths about the PPP loan era, reveals which types of business loans actually make sense, and explains why your business plan is your most powerful funding tool.

Whether you're bootstrapping a startup or scaling an established business, this conversation delivers actionable insights on navigating today's capital markets, understanding good debt vs bad debt, and using AI as a cooperative tool—not a replacement—for business success.

🎯 What You'll Learn:
✅ How to raise capital for your small business without destroying your finances
✅ The difference between good debt and bad debt (and when to use each)
✅ Why PPP loans were mismanaged and what we learned from it
✅ Valid reasons to take out small business loans vs when to avoid them
✅ Different types of capital: equity, debt, grants, and alternative funding
✅ How AI is transforming the workforce and lending markets
✅ Practical ways to integrate AI tools into your business operations
✅ Why a solid business plan is non-negotiable for funding success

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction to Business Capital
00:28 Understanding Debt and Raising Capital
01:09 The Role of AI in Business
01:50 Misuse of PPP Loans
04:14 Defining Small Businesses
06:03 Navigating Post-COVID Capital Markets
08:16 Valid Reasons for Small Business Loans
09:05 Exploring Different Types of Capital
14:18 The Impact of Free Money Era
25:00 AI's Role in the Modern Workforce
35:14 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

💼 About Marc Pickren:
Marc Pickren is a business expert specializing in small business capital strategies, debt management, and innovation-driven growth. He helps entrepreneurs navigate complex funding landscapes and build sustainable, profitable businesses.
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