Most explorers had sponsors to finance their journeys, since ships, crews and the food needed cost alot of money. The church and kings usually demanded percentages of the goods that explorers would bring back from the conquests in exchange for financing the journeys.
Leif Eriksson likely financed his own exploration journeys, as he came from a wealthy and influential family with strong maritime traditions. There is no specific record of who provided him with the funds for his expeditions to places like North America.
Hernan Cortes used a great deal of his own money during his expeditions and exploration missions. This was Spanish money that was standard during this time frame.
The water route to the Far East - Columbus Fountain of Youth - Vasco de Gama Money - Other Explorers (Spain)
Spain got involved in exploration during the Age of Exploration in order to expand its territories, find new trade routes, and spread Christianity. Spanish explorers like Christopher Columbus, Ferdinand Magellan, and Hernán Cortés undertook expeditions to discover new lands and resources, establish colonies, and convert indigenous populations to Christianity. The Spanish crown saw exploration as a means to increase political power, wealth, and influence in the world.
European rulers encouraged exploration in the Americas because it would increase the country's wealth if they'd money. Many explorers searched for gold, silver, etc. Colonization created a lot of wealth, so many rulers wanted to scout the area before settling it.
Ocean Eploration
Merchants raised money to invest in exploration by holding raffles and contests in parts of Europe. Some merchants set up street markets as well as their established buildings to make extra money for exploration.
to find money
The three reasons for exploration were to get money, become famous, and spread Christianity.
For money and power.
Dutch explorers got money from asking for money from the King (or Queen). For example, Columbus didn't have enough money and asked the ruler of Italy. He did not approve so he went to the King and Queen of Spain, and they 'donated for his cause'. Dutch explorers paid for explorations in the same way. -74