Hi there!
When I was looking for funding for a silicon valley company, I found 4 types of sources:
1. Individual investors, of course. Some are "Qualified Investors" and some are not, but Friends and Family are the best.
2. Venture Capitalists - They may be the best choice, if your product, service and company is well on it's way. If you have a business plan that makes sense, etc. They will want a substantial slice of the ownership of your business, however, they may/will provide assistance and guidance in marketing, accounting, legal, etc.
3. Angel Investors - these are usually individuals, but could be groups of individuals who will want some stock ownership in exchange, but not to the extent of the VC - There are some angel investor "forums" that screen applicants and allow those that they have qualified to make a presentation to their membership meetings. Very exciting model.
4. Look out for the weird groups that want you to give them money in advance of their considering your proposal. They claim to fund church groweth and other businesses, but IMHO, they are in the game only for the upfront money they can get from you the business owner/inventor. We had a high tech product that was already selling, installed and proven. These kind of "investor" organizations claim to have access to millions, but they could never substantiate their claims. I don't even have a name for that category.
5. Visit your local SCORE counsellors - they provide free counselling and may lead you to funding sources. They can help you build your business plan so that you may qualify for SBA loans or "microloans". Visit www.SCORE.org
Best of success to you, all, in your business ideas.
Commercial: I can provide you with a low cost service to give you and your business access to the departments that you don't already have in your business. A Tax and Accounting Dept, A Marketing and advertising Dept, A Human Relations Dept, A Management Dept, A Legal Dept, and a Collections Dept.
Contact me for more data.