As a small business owner, you are obviously not bringing in millions of dollars a year in revenue like big chains or corporations do. Therefore, obligations to keep the business afloat can cause significant stress especially if sales are down. As a result, from time to time it becomes necessary for small businesses to apply for loans or grants.

While it is beneficial to be approved for a small business loan, it takes some careful consideration regarding what the funds would be best spent on as wasted or misspent money could result in the failure of your business venture. Below are 4 things you should consider spending your small business grant on and ways it can positively impact your company.

1. Inventory

Having only a select number of products means that you are only appealing to so many customers. As a result, you may be turning people away who come to you to buy a product that you do not have. These same people are probably turning to your competition who do carry the sought-after item.

If you have been approved for a small business loan, consider investing it into expanding your inventory. Purchasing new and up-to-date products will broaden your customer base and in turn increase profits. Small business loans offer the flexibility you need to buy products when you need them and at a time that is right for you. This ensures that you have the funds to make purchases and you will never be short.

2. Staff

Many small business consist of the owner and one or two other staff. While it is not an expectation that you are open 24 hours a day, 7 days per week, the shorter you are on staff, the less amount of time you can stay open. This will result in you losing sales.

Using some funds from your small business loan to pay for more staff would be beneficial. Not only should a new staff’s salary be considered but hiring a recruiter as well. A recruiting agent can take all of your requirements and match them to potential candidates, seeing the process through from start to finish. That way, you can concentrate on your business and know that you are getting the right person for the job without worrying about frequent turnover.

3. Advertising

Advertising is what gets the word out about who you are and what you have to offer. If no one knows this information, it will be difficult to be successful and able to compete against other businesses.

Ear-marking some funds from your small business loan for advertising is recommended. Paying for ads in public, newspapers, online, and on the radio will inform potential customers about products and sales that you have to offer. In this age of advanced technology, a new website and mobile application can also be used to draw attention to your business. Funds from your small business loan can pay a company that can assist with developing these components.

4. Equipment

As a proud business owner, you feel that your products and customer service speak for themselves. While these two components are crucial in the success of a small business, you also need correct and up-to-date equipment to do the job.

Spending some of your small business loan on new equipment is a smart investment. This equipment comes with warranties and usually lasts for many years before replacement is needed, saving you money in the long run. Having the right equipment no matter what industry you are in means that you will be able to do your job quicker and more effectively. As a result, you will have a better ability to meet the demands of customers.