Small Business Start-Up Kit | Page 8

Timeline • • • • • • Check cash flow budget against actual performance. Maintain good communications with your bankers and vendors. By keeping the lines of communication open you are helping yourself. Should you need their help in the future, you are more likely to receive it. Continue to improve the 5 C’s of credit. (Character, Collateral, Capacity, Capital, and Condition) Work with investors. Make sure you are in contact with them. Make sure that you understand the conditions of your repayment. When are payments due? Make sure you fulfill all obligations to investors. You may need to call them again someday. Check cost of living budget. If you are drawing money from the company for living expenses, be sure to take only what is necessary. Stick tightly to your budget. Consider delaying your official grand opening/ribbon cutting until you’ve been in business for a couple of weeks. Doing so may ensure that you have worked the “bugs” out and that all is running smoothly. “ Being a part of the Tomah Chamber of Commerce has been a joy for Gordy’s Market. Whether it’s a ribbon cutting celebrating the opening of our doors, an opportunity to help the community by sponsoring the fireworks , or a Business After 5 gathering, the Tomah Chamber has kept me up to speed on what’s happening in my city. I love the network of people that I have met through the chamber and the opportunities it has opened for Gordy’s. The Tomah Chamber looks first to help local businesses and that’s why we (Gordy’s) love being members because of their dedication to economic growth in our community and striving to make Tomah an unforgettable destination. - Matt “The Gordy’s Guru” Greater Area Tomah Chamber of Commerce Page | 8