Business area: Proprietary Capital Investment

Prepare an operating cash calendar before allocating the company’s own funds to a new project. Include payroll, supplier commitments, taxes, debt obligations and seasonal working-capital needs. Distinguish cash that is available now from receipts that depend on future events.

The SBA’s startup-cost guidance separates one-time costs from ongoing expenses. Use that distinction when preparing a project cash plan, then add the timing of payments and collections. Test what happens if launch is delayed or receipts arrive later than expected.

Define an internal review point before each funding tranche and identify which operating commitments must remain funded. Document who can change the allocation. The practical output is a funding calendar and decision record, not a universal percentage or a promised investment return.

References (checked 2026-10-04):

U.S. Small Business Administration — Calculate your startup costs

https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/plan-your-business/calculate-your-startup-costs