When the decision is made to seek funding for a small business, it rarely happens on a whim. There’s usually a precipitating event—an opportunity for growth, a sudden dip in cash flow, or a new piece of equipment that could shift production into a higher gear. Whatever the reason, chasing capital is not a casual task. It’s one that demands not just a compelling case but a portfolio of proof, organization, and foresight that shows lenders or investors there’s a steady hand on the wheel. Build a