Raising capital is a huge issue that anyone in business faces in today’s economy, and people are having to step back into the realms of “old school” to get er done. I hear ya, “What the hay is old school capital creation?” Well, in my opinion, it dates back to farmer Ted walking down to farmer Elmer’s house and saying something like this, “Remember when I dug you out of that ditch and saved your crop, and you said if my family ever got in a pickle to come ask you for help? Well I’m askn’.” That’s what I mean when I say old school.

We’re in those times. Banks are as tight as they have ever been. Venture capitalists want the whole enchilada and guarantees. The options due to massive cash flow shortages across the board are forcing old school creativity. It’s now back the way I like it; families helping one another out for mutual benefit and a willingness to do so based on relationship.

If you’re looking to expand or to move into new ventures right now, I encourage you to go back to the people you’ve done right and ask them to step up and pay them well. Now hopefully you’ve done your work and you’re due in the favor category.

If not, then here’s an opportunity to learn a lesson. Always give of yourself freely because you may never know when you might need help someday too. Notice I used the word freely. It’s the one who gives to get that always leaves a muddy message. That person will always have a harder time finding someone to lay it down for them when they need it the most. Be there for people, it’s the right thing and the smart thing.