While some people are watching their retirement accounts plummet in this tough market, others are turning that around with an alternative investment - a new business.

Many people are finding out how to invest their retirement accounts in new businesses, and keep every penny of their funds. Some IRAs, 401(k)s and other types of retirement accounts can be used to invest in new businesses - without penalties or taxes. But few investors have taken advantage of it, until recently.

It's not new; quite the contrary. But just three weeks ago, the IRS officially sanctioned the use of retirement funds to invest in a business, even though the program has been in practice for years.

Larry Carnell, Vice President of Benetrends, a franchise funding company, has first-hand knowledge and experience in using retirement funds for business purchases. As a manager for a major franchisor in the mid-1990s, he was the first person in the nation to uncover this program for his clients to help them purchase franchises.

"The program was relatively unheard of then. Now, I'm out talking to all sorts of groups and organizations about this program. My story hits home during this time and so the IFA and other franchise organizations have me booked to speak at several conferences and seminars."

Carnell explains, "When I'm consulting with investors, I ask if they want to control their retirement, or do they want the stock market to control it? For some, investing all or part of their investment in a business allows them to essentially take control of their future, and truly see their investment grow. In fact, they start building equity right away and they're not at the mercy of the stock market."

He further explains, "Many people are concerned about the risk and cost of starting a new business. Businesses struggling at start up, do so many times because of massive loan payments. However, using retirement funds, there are no loan payments." Carnell says that extra money can be used to pay salary during start up, or marketing and advertising to accelerate the business growth. "This saves $35,000 to $40,000 per year in loan payments. That's why 95% of businesses using retirement funds are still in business after 5 years."

Carnell is an expert in franchise funding. He recommends working with the right advisors in all facets of business ownership. "I recommend that people who want to buy a franchise work with a franchise consulting company such as FranNet. FranNet is the oldest and one of the most respected companies in the industry - and they work for their clients at no charge."

Stacy Swift, a franchise broker and consultant for FranNet Colorado explains, "While using retirement funds is a good investment for many people, it might not be right for everyone. That's why it's really important to get good advice from an accountant or tax advisor, as well as a business consultant." For no charge to her clients, Swift matches investors with the right franchise or individual business. She also connects them with CPA's, attorneys, and other lenders so they can explore traditional as well as alternative funding options.

It's not a secret anymore. Using retirement funds to purchase a new business or invest in an existing business can stop the bleeding, and it's completely legal. But learning more about it is the key to uncovering this alternative investment strategy.

About FranNet Colorado and Stacy Swift
We are the Franchise Matchmakers in Colorado. Stacy Swift is owner ofFranNet Colorado located in Denver. FranNet Colorado is an affiliate of FranNet (Franchise Network), the world's original, premier network of franchise brokers and consultants with over 80 associates across the U.S., in Canada and internationally. FranNet consultants specialize in helping their clients find the right franchise through their exclusive matchmaking process, and their consulting services are free to their clients. Ethical and experienced consultants like Stacy provide guidance, information and support while helping clients achieve their goals of business ownership safely and affordably. Stacy offers free monthly webinars and seminars on franchising and franchise opportunities. Contact Stacy Swift at 303-715-0397 or sswift@frannet.com. Visit her website at www.frannet.com.