An idea commonly widespread in the entrepreneurial ecosystem wants to succeed, it is necessary to have a starting capital. However, with the advent of the digital era and flexible economic models, the question of whether it is really possible to undertake without money at the start remains largely debated. So, is it a reality or a myth?
The definition of the starting capital
The starting capital generally designates the sum of money necessary to launch an activity or finance the first expenses of an entrepreneurial project. This capital can cover various needs such as the purchase of equipment, the rental of a room, the development of a product or a service, as well as marketing and communication costs. Traditionally, such an investment was considered essential to start a business. But today, the reality of business has evolved, and there are many strategies to get started without having to bring together a large sum of money.
The advent of agile economic models
One of the major changes that has changed the way of thinking about the starting capital is the emergence of so -called “agile” economic models. These models allow entrepreneurs to start with very low, even zero initial costs, based on online tools and resources. The concept of “Lean Startup”, popularized by Eric Ries, is based on the idea of minimizing costs and risks by developing an incremental product or service, starting from a simple prototype, and adjusting the strategy in function of customer feedback.
For example, many companies today use platforms like Shopify, Etsy or WordPress to sell products or services without the need for an important initial investment. In addition, the use of freelancers and external providers helps reduce fixed costs, thus offering more flexibility to entrepreneurs who do not have substantial capital.
Crowdfunding: an alternative
One of the most popular solutions to start without capital is crowdfunding, or crowdfunding. It makes it possible to raise funds from individuals who believe in a project without requiring the intervention of a bank or traditional investors. This model is based on the idea that people ready to support a project are motivated by membership of an idea, a product or a service. Several platforms such as Kickstarter, Ulule or KisskissBankBank offer entrepreneurs an opportunity to finance themselves without having to use loans.
A study carried out by the Institute of Research for Innovation and Competitiveness (IRIC) in 2022 showed that 42 % of French entrepreneurs who used crowdfunding platforms were able to start their projects without needing a starting capital . These platforms also test the viability of the product or service before even launching it officially. This thus reduces financial risk.
The importance of skills and network
Beyond funding, there is another essential aspect to succeed without capital: skills and network. Many entrepreneurs succeed in creating a business without investing money, but focusing on their specific skills and the professional relationships they have developed. Indeed, in many sectors, know-how and experience take precedence over the initial financial investment.
Thus, an entrepreneur who does not have a starting capital can count on his expertise to find solutions adapted to his needs. For example, in the service sector (consulting, web development, digital marketing, etc.), an entrepreneur can start with a simple computer, an internet connection and a network of potential customers. This is one of the reasons why entrepreneurship is more and more accessible to people who have no money to invest.
Another key factor is the network. As part of an entrepreneurial project, having contacts in the industry can make it possible to find partners, customers and even employees without initiating significant expenses. Events, fairs and forums dedicated to entrepreneurship also offer opportunities to develop professional relationships that will facilitate the launch of the activity.
The limits of the capital without capital
Despite the possibilities offered by these new approaches, it is important to emphasize that starting without capital presents limits. One of the first difficulties encountered by entrepreneurs who are launching without funding is time management. Indeed, in the absence of financial resources to hire employees, the entrepreneur must often assume all the functions of the company alone or with a small number of partners. This work overload can affect the growth of the business and slow down its progression.
In addition, the capital -free starting phase requires particularly rigorous management of resources and finance. The lack of liquidity can also prevent the entrepreneur from investing in tools, technologies or training that could accelerate the growth of his business. Without a minimum of capital, it becomes difficult to face the unexpected or to give yourself the means to differentiate yourself in a competitive market.
Recent studies: towards an entrepreneurship without capital?
A study by INSEE in 2023 on business creators in France shows that almost 30 % of entrepreneurs start without having recourse to external funding or bank loans. Among these, 12 % manage to generate sufficient income to perpetuate their activity in the first three years. However, the study also stresses that, although the possibility of starting without capital is real, it remains more common in the sectors where production costs are low, such as personal services or consulting.
Another study carried out by Bpifrance in 2022 indicates that 40 % of business creators in the digital sector are starting their capital without capital. This trend is particularly marked in the tech and software development professions, where the main resource necessary for launch is technical know-how.
