Most businesses are started with less capital than you would imagine.   However, some capital is essential to pay bills, suppliers, establish modest marketing collateral material, hiring a book keeper, .....  A rule of thumb is be prepared for at least 6 months of making no money.  It almost always takes longer than you imagine to make money than you predict in your business plan.   In the beginning, it is a good idea if funding is an issue to be frugal or down right cheap.  Used furniture, home offices, a business card and brochure for marketing material are all reasonable steps in the first stage of a business.