New businesses find it increasingly hard to raise finance as banks set new stringent lending criteria and ratchet up interest rates. The latest statistics showing the number of administrations for the first quarter of 2008 up 54% and receiverships leaping to their highest level in five years will make banks more circumspect than ever.

Half of all businesses fail because of cash flow problems and as creditors tighten payment terms - many demanding cash upfront - it is vital to understand the various financial options available and make the right choices for your business.

This section looks at the types of finance available, how to write an impressive business plan, examines how to control cash flow and credit and looks at directors financial responsibilities in an increasingly uncertain business climate. There is also a section on factoring, explaining what it is and how it can work for you.