surprised how quickly you can raise equity from smaller investors under an exemption if you go that route. Rich people socialize and like to brag about their latest sure thing investment, and we ended up turning a lot of people away to stay under our exemption limits. Try all the loans and convertible debt people suggested above, but if you need to raise equity don't think it is a monumental hill to climb. You seem more than motivated enough, and smart enough, to make it happen. I would rather go that route than give up a lot of the firm for one or two big investors.