Distinguish between Entrepreneurial support system – Financial.

The entrepreneurial support system comprises various elements designed to assist and empower entrepreneurs in their business endeavors. Financial support is a critical component of this system and can be broadly categorized into two main types: traditional financing and alternative financing.

Traditional Financing:

1. Bank Loans: Entrepreneurs can seek financial support from banks in the form of loans. These loans may be secured or unsecured, and repayment terms and interest rates vary based on the borrower's creditworthiness and the nature of the business.

2. Venture Capital: Venture capital (VC) involves external investors providing funding to startups and early-stage businesses in exchange for equity ownership. Venture capitalists often bring expertise and mentorship along with financial support.

3. Angel Investors: Angel investors are individuals who invest their personal funds in startups and small businesses in exchange for equity. Unlike venture capitalists, angel investors are usually high-net-worth individuals investing their own money.

4. Government Grants and Subsidies: Many governments offer financial support programs, grants, and subsidies to encourage entrepreneurship. These funds are often targeted at specific sectors, industries, or types of businesses.

5. Traditional Equity Financing: Entrepreneurs can raise capital by selling shares of their company through traditional equity financing. This involves issuing stocks to investors in exchange for funding.

Alternative Financing:

1. Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding platforms allow entrepreneurs to raise small amounts of money from a large number of people. This approach can include rewards-based crowdfunding, equity crowdfunding, or debt-based crowdfunding.

2. Peer-to-Peer Lending: Online platforms connect borrowers directly with individual lenders, bypassing traditional financial institutions. Entrepreneurs can access funds through peer-to-peer lending, which may offer more flexible terms than traditional loans.

3. Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Financing: With the rise of blockchain technology, entrepreneurs can explore Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) or Security Token Offerings (STOs) to raise capital through cryptocurrency.

4. Revenue-Based Financing: In revenue-based financing, entrepreneurs repay investors based on a percentage of their business's revenue. This model provides flexibility, aligning the repayment with the business's financial performance.

5. Alternative Credit Solutions: Fintech companies offer alternative credit solutions, such as online lenders and invoice financing, providing quicker access to capital for entrepreneurs who may face challenges securing traditional loans.

In summary, the entrepreneurial support system's financial component encompasses both traditional and alternative financing options. Traditional financing involves well-established methods such as bank loans, venture capital, and government grants. On the other hand, alternative financing includes innovative approaches like crowdfunding, peer-to-peer lending, and cryptocurrency-based funding. Entrepreneurs can leverage a combination of these financial support mechanisms based on their business needs, risk appetite, and growth objectives.