Finance and Legal

Learn about various options to fund your business, tools to manage finances effectively, and ways to get the legal advice you need for your startup.

For many entrepreneurs, learning how to access capital for their business is a key concern. There are many ways entrepreneurs can fund their business if they need extra cash, ranging from loans to crowdfunding. On top of that, knowing how to manage money is a key part of business success. Also, you may need basic legal assistance when building a company. This page explores some of the options for funding, tools for effective financial management, and resources for legal help.

Business Funding Options

Consider these ways to raise money for your business or start up, and determine which options might be the best fit for your goals.

U.S. SBA Funding Programs

The Small Business Administration offers customized information and guidance for entrepreneurs seeking funding, including specialized loans and grants.

Learn More

Angel Investors

Angel investors are individuals or small groups that provide relatively modest amounts of capital to entrepreneurs in return for equity. Learn more about angel investors and how to identify if they are right for your business.

Learn More

Venture Capital

Venture capital, often called “VC", is a type of funding that firms may provide to companies with high-growth potential in exchange for equity. There are many types of venture capital firms, often focusing on specific industries.

Learn More

RISD Kickstarter

RISD students, alumni & current faculty with an entrepreneurial project can use the RISD Curated Kickstarter page to raise funds for their ideas. Over $6,000,000 has been raised for RISD projects on the platform, including ideas across fine arts and design.

Learn More

Financial Management Resources

These tools and resources can provide guidance for managing business finances. If you need additional assistance, consider consulting with an accountant.

QuickBooks Resource Center

This platform provides comprehensive guides and tools for freelancers and small businesses to manage their finances with effectiveness.

Learn More

IRS Record Keeping Guide

Knowing how to keep and manage financial records is an essential element for entrepreneurs. This guide from the IRS explains how to effectively track these details.

Learn More

Legal Resources

These tools and resources provide you with necessary legal documents and connect you with best fit legal advice for entrepreneurs and start ups.

Shake Law

This software makes it easy for entrepreneurs and small businesses to create, send, and sign legally binding legal documents.

Learn More

National Start Up Clinics

Law schools across the country offer pro bono (free) assistance to entrepreneurs on issues ranging from incorporation, trademarks, patents, and more.

Learn More

Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts

The VLA provides a broad range of free and low-cost legal services and educational programs addressing the needs of artists, designers, small creative businesses, and cultural organizations.

Learn More