This is not the sexiest article I have ever wrote but I have seen some really cash strapped entrepreneurs. It is an unfortunate fact that young entrepreneurs and others in the process of starting home-based business may find themselves needing to make money in a hurry. The first reaction to finding oneself in this situation is to panic, rendering it nearly impossible to think clearly and creatively about alternative money-making options. Keep these 6 tips in mind and you will be on your way to making some extra cash before the panic even sets in.

1. Sell Stuff. Chances are that you are surrounded by stuff you simply do not need anymore. Dig through your clutter, your attic, and the piles off stuff you have not looked through in awhile and determine what you can part with. Then hold a garage sale, either alone or with some neighbors. Put up signs around your neighborhood and put an ad in the newspaper.

Likewise, consider selling some of your unwanted stuff on eBay. Buyers on eBay respond more quickly and positively to postings that include images, so post pictures of the things you are selling. A little research before you post will tell you what similar items have sold for and in which categories they were placed. If you need further help, eBay has an interactive Help application that will be very beneficial.

Craigslist is also a great place to sell stuff. Since listings are displayed by city, you know that anyone who contacts you is most likely local. This cuts down on hassles related to payment and shipping that you might experience on eBay.

All three of these options give you the opportunity to get rid of stuff you do not need anymore while making some money in the process.

2. Deliver Food. This is definitely not the sexiest way to make money, but if you are in a hurry for some cash, delivering pizza may be the way to go. You will get tips every day that you deliver, which will help out your cash flow.

3. Temp Jobs. Temporary staffing agencies are great places to look for quick work. You will have to visit the agency and fill out an application, but chances are that they will have work for you in the following few days. You can request jobs in clerical fields, in heavy labor, or anywhere in between. You will be paid on a weekly basis, and many temporary jobs turn into more long-term opportunities. Temp agencies are also great because they take care of tax paperwork on your behalf so that you do not have to.

4. Take Surveys. Many online survey companies will pay you in cash for your trouble. Do not bother with survey companies that enter you in a sweepstakes. But consider take surveys that offer prizes. Whatever you receive may be worth something if you can resell it.

5. Take Care of Kids. If you are already staying at home with your own kids, consider offering to take care of a few more. Let people know about your services through word of mouth and by posting your offer on community bulletin boards and at schools. Check your local laws to find out the limit on the number of children you can care for as an unlicensed person, though.

6. Odd Jobs. Look around your neighborhood to see what kinds of services your neighbors might benefit from. Many folks are looking for someone to mow the lawn, shovel the snow, or clean out the attic. Distribute flyers around town to let people know what you are offering.

It can be a little unsettling to find yourself short on cash, especially if you are working really hard to start your own business. But do not panic. There are plenty of ways to make money that will still allow you to work on your business as well. They may not be glamorous, but they will help you get by until you find yourself profiting from the business that you have always dreamed of.