As James and many others have experienced over the years, the one scourge in the 5M start-up business construct is quick access to appropriate sources of finance. So critical is this that I find myself advising clients to seek funds from “friends and family”, who believe in them and their Models, and more recently through crowdfunding platforms, rather than to wait for the public and private sectors to wake up. Of course, start-up entrepreneurs should spare no effort, where practicable, in generating early profits in the business. There is no better source of investment finance and it does wonders for your credit rating.