If you're trying to get a business started, you will ABSOLUTELY come out of pocket to fund it. Sometimes it can be quite a bit of money. And as a new business owner, you may have an idea of what you want to pay for things, without knowing what things actually cost. Websites are expensive. Social media assistance can become costly. Digital ad pricing can get out of hand quickly.
Don't play yourself by relying on favors and hookups to get anything done in your business.
Especially if you want it done right and on time. Everyone knows someone that knows how to do something or other. It's easy to think, "I'll just use my nephew to help me with that website." Or, "My friend works in marketing, she can tell me what to do." And there's nothing wrong with tapping into your resources for advice or get a little help as needed. As long as it's within reason.
The real...When you're not paying actual money to make things happen, people treat you and your project differently. They don't and won't prioritize the favor by jumping you to the top of their to-do list. They may even half-ass the work because there's nothing in it to do things to the best of their ability. And if it's not their primary business and they just "know" how to do something, how can you be sure it's done correctly?
Money talks. If you're not using it in exchange for what you are needing and wanting to get done, your end result may be a reflection of how your business is perceived by others. End of discussion.
Rebel Tip
If you don't have a lot of money, it doesn't mean it's over for your business. You may just need to be creative and educate yourself on how to get things done, yourself. Probably some of the best business lessons you can get.