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Wouldn’t it be nice to have banks competing with each other to fund your startup?
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• 29 min
The Startup Dentist’s Financing Guide
The Startup Dentist
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In the latest episode of The Startup Dentist Podcast, host Stephen Trutter dives deep into one of the most critical (and often misunderstood) parts of starting your own practice: financing your startup the right way.
Why Most Dental Startups Fail at Financing
Too many dentists fall into the trap of "student loan panic," paying down debts too aggressively and draining their liquidity. Others mistakenly believe that borrowing the least amount possible will somehow lead to success. Stephen shows why both paths can seriously limit your ability to secure the right financing and grow your dream practice.
Step One: Cash is King
Stephen kicks things off with a huge mindset shift: Liquidity is more important than debt. Rather than throwing every extra dollar at your student loans, dentists should prioritize building up cash reserves. Why? Because lenders aren't just looking at your debt—they're looking at your ability to weather the early stages of practice ownership. Having $50,000 to $75,000 in non-retirement assets can make the difference between a smooth loan approval and months of stress.
Today's Lending Environment (and Why You Shouldn't Wait)
From rising construction costs to changing interest rates, the market is shifting—but that doesn't mean you should sit on the sidelines. Stephen explains why banks are actually lending more for startups right now and why trying to "time the market" is a losing strategy. The truth? Costs rarely go down. The best time to move forward with your startup is when you're ready—not when you think the perfect economic conditions might appear.
Spend to Grow, Not to Save
One of the biggest myths Stephen tackles is the idea that borrowing less automatically equals lower risk. In reality, startups that are underfunded from day one struggle to grow. Cutting corners on your buildout, equipment, or marketing might save you a few bucks upfront, but it could cost you hundreds of thousands in lost production down the road. Stephen shares why investing properly in your growth areas—like marketing, systems, and team training—sets the foundation for long-term success.
The "Silver Platter" Approach to Bank Approvals
Walking into a bank with no plan is a recipe for disaster. Stephen introduces the "Silver Platter" strategy: preparing your financials, liquidity, vision, business plan, and projections before you approach lenders. When you present yourself as a confident, prepared borrower, banks compete to lend to you—putting you in control of the financing conversation, not the other way around.
Build Your Future Today
If you're serious about dental practice ownership, don't let fear, student loans, or market jitters slow you down. Use a financing strategy that puts your vision first and positions you for fast, sustainable growth.
Ready to make your dream practice a reality? Start by building the right financial foundation—because success isn't just about opening your doors. It's about thriving for years to come.
Keep believing,
Stephen Trutter & The Startup Dentist Podcast Team
Dreaming of being a practice owner? Listen to The Startup Dentist Podcast here! 👇
Entrepreneurship • Business • 29 episodes
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