I am a big believer in self financing, even if you need outside capital to be very successful.  The first reason is you will get better terms from an outside investor if you can prove your concept with your own money.  Secondly, an outside investor always will feel more confident investing in your business if you have skin in the game as well to lose beyond just your time.  At an Elifelines event held in April of 2005, I believe Glen Meakem used an analogy of walking over glass or something like that and showing total commitment to your company.  A large part of that is putting your own resources at risk.  Also tap friends and family to get initial funding.