By Stephen Watkins For NewsUSA

(NewsUSA) - Q: We are a hedge fund that is looking for alternative investments. I just learned about the Entrex marketplace - how do we invest in companies?

- Brian B., Reston, Va.

A: In your world, you certainly understand the value of disclosures and alternative investing - and that is what Entrex is all about.

As you know, the investment community has only about 16,000 public securities in which they can invest. These have been chopped up and reformulated into various mutual fund-type vehicles, which cover just about everything imaginable - from the Vice Fund to socially responsible funds. It seems like fund managers are trying to be creative in finding new investment themes for the public market.

By Stephen Watkins For NewsUSA

(NewsUSA) - Q: We've got a product that sells well, but we need capital. How do I start?

- Larry N., San Francisco

A: Not having much information about what you need and where you are in the process, I'll begin by saying that it's important to understand there are different forms of capital with different costs associated with them.

by Monique Hawkins

As many small business owners know, financing is crucial to the financial health of their enterprise. While some small business owners have the resources to launch their business, most look to the credit market for financial help. Indeed, the banking industry is an important source to gain necessary capital. However, many entrepreneurs may not realize that that applying for commercial credit requires a great deal of preparation. Here are five tips to assist entrepreneurs in improving their chances of getting credit approval.