This article was reviewed by Doug Noll, a member of the Finder Editorial Review Board and award-winning lawyer, mediator and author with over 40 years of experience in the legal field.
Startup business loans work a little differently than funding options for established businesses. Instead of focusing on your business’s revenue and debts, these lenders look at your personal credit and finances.
But that doesn’t mean lenders are willing to work with businesses that haven’t actually opened their doors. Most still require you to have at least six months in business and an annual revenue of $100,000 or more.
Weigh all your options before you get a startup business loan. Funding a startup is risky and lenders tend to charge higher interest rates in fees on these small business loans. If your business fails, your personal credit could take a hit.
To help you find the best choice, we’ve broken down your options into five categories for our seven top lenders — and have a list of alternatives if your business doesn’t qualify.
7 best startup business loans
Our team has spent over 600 hours reviewing over 220 business loan providers before we picked these eight lenders. We paid special attention to requirements, interest rates, fees and repayment terms.
SBA loans
The Small Business Association (SBA) offers government-backed loans with some of the most competitive rates and terms out there. While not all programs are available to startups, your business might be able to qualify for a microloan or other small loan, which typically run up to $350,000. But they’re not always easy to get — only 65% of SBA loan applicants were approved in 2020, according to a Federal Reserve survey. You should also be prepared to spend at least a month working on the application and even longer waiting for an approval decision.
Lendio business loans
560
Min. Credit Score
6%
Starting APR
$5,000,000
Max Loan Amount
Lendio has a large network of lenders offering 12 types of business financing — including credit cards and startup loans up to $750,000. You also don't need to have the best credit to qualify — its partners accept scores as low as 560. And its rates are capped relatively low for startup financing at just 17%. But it's not a good idea if you're in a rush — it can take up to a month to get your funds.
- Network of over 300 lenders
- Wide range of business loan options
- Bad personal credit accepted
- Must pay origination fee after loan is finalized
- May receive marketing material from lenders
- At least six months of bank statements required
| Min. Loan Amount |
$500
|
|---|
| Max. Loan Amount |
$5,000,000
|
|---|
| APR |
Starting at 6%
|
|---|
| Interest Rate Type |
Variable
|
|---|
| Min. Credit Score |
560
|
|---|
| Minimum Loan Term |
12 months
|
|---|
| Maximum Loan Term |
300 months
|
|---|
Microloans
Microloans are small-dollar financing available to a variety of businesses, including startups. They are designed to help you cover the little things when you’re just getting on your feet — like buying office supplies or stocking up on your first set of inventory.
Microloans, like those offered by Kiva and Accion, typically start around $500 and come with shorter terms than your usual unsecured loan, but they also tend to have higher rates or more strict requirements to qualify.
The SBA microloan program states that its average microloans are around $13,000 to $14,000 — but private lenders may offer more or less depending on the age of your business and its finances.
Kiva business loans
None
Min. Credit Score
0%
Starting APR
$15,000
Max Loan Amount
Kiva is a microlender that specializes in small-dollar financing for underserved business owners. Its crowdfunded loans come with 0% interest, making it one of the most competitive options on this list. It's willing to work with entrepreneurs of all credit types. And you don't necessarily need to be a US citizen or permanent resident to qualify. However, it can take over a month to raise funds – think twice about this lender if you need cash fast.
- No interest or fees
- All credit types welcome
- No residency requirements
- Relies on your social network for crowdfunding
- Can take up to 45 days to raise funds
| Min. Loan Amount |
$25
|
|---|
| Max. Loan Amount |
$15,000
|
|---|
| APR |
0%
|
|---|
| Interest Rate Type |
N/A
|
|---|
| Minimum Loan Term |
1 months
|
|---|
| Maximum Loan Term |
3 months
|
|---|
Accion business loans
575
Min. Credit Score
10.99%
Starting APR
$250,000
Max Loan Amount
Unlike Kiva, Accion is a direct microlender that doesn't rely on crowdfunding. This means that you'll face some fees and higher interest rates — up to 22%. But it also means that you may not need to wait long to receive your funds. You also have the option to borrow as little as $300, and you may qualify for funding even if your business is less than six months old.
- Loans start at just $300
- Fair personal credit OK
- Accepts businesses with less than six months in business
- Charges processing and closing fees
- New businesses must be located in a home or incubator
| Min. Loan Amount |
$300
|
|---|
| Max. Loan Amount |
$250,000
|
|---|
| APR |
10.99% to 22%
|
|---|
| Fee |
4% to 5%
|
|---|
| Interest Rate Type |
Fixed
|
|---|
| Min. Credit Score |
575
|
|---|
| Minimum Loan Term |
6 months
|
|---|
| Maximum Loan Term |
60 months
|
|---|
Term loans
There are two options for term loans: Secured and unsecured. An unsecured business loan doesn’t require any collateral. These can be hard to come by if you haven’t opened your business yet, and it can be expensive since lenders tend to see startups as a risk. However, they have a number of benefits: You won’t risk losing any of your business’s assets if things don’t work out and can’t pay back the loan. But you could still lose some of your personal assets since most unsecured loans require a personal guarantee.
A secured business loan uses some of your business or personal assets as collateral. They can be easier to come by as a startup since the collateral offsets the risk for the lender. There are even specialized loans to help you finance the equipment your business needs to get going. Secured loans also tend to have more favorable rates and terms than unsecured business loans. But you risk losing your collateral if you or your business isn’t able to repay the loan. And if you use personal assets as collateral, this can have a major impact on your finances.
Seek Business Capital loans
680
Min. Credit Score
Varies
Starting APR
$500,000
Max Loan Amount
As a business loan connection and consulting service, Seek Business Capital specializes in connecting startups with funding — including Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. It's not for businesses that haven't opened their doors yet, though. You'll need to be up and running for at least six months and meet strict criteria to qualify for government-backed funding. But it comes with some of the lowest rates out there for startup financing.
- Borrow up to $350,000 with SBA funding option
- Open to businesses just six months old
- Only SBA loans offered are Express Loans
- Takes three to six months to get funds
| Min. Loan Amount |
$5,000
|
|---|
| Max. Loan Amount |
$500,000
|
|---|
| APR |
Varies by lender
|
|---|
| Interest Rate Type |
Fixed
|
|---|
| Min. Credit Score |
680
|
|---|
Guidant Financial business loans
690
Min. Credit Score
12%
Starting APR
$150,000
Max Loan Amount
Guidant Financial is one of the few lenders that offers a line of credit for businesses that haven't opened their doors yet. To qualify, you'll need good personal credit, minimal inquiries and a credit utilization ratio under 50%. It even offers a 0% introductory rate for well-qualified applicants. After that, interest rates range from 12% to 18% — lower than typical business credit cards. But it comes with a high 9% origination fee. And it's not the fastest option out there — it can take up to a month to fund your LOC.
- Businesses in the planning stage OK
- Interest-free promotional period
- Lower rates than typical business credit cards
- Origination fee of 9%
- Personal credit score of 690 or higher required
- Can take three to four weeks to fund your LOC
| Min. Loan Amount |
$10,000
|
|---|
| Max. Loan Amount |
$150,000
|
|---|
| Interest Rate Type |
Fixed
|
|---|
| Min. Credit Score |
690
|
|---|
Invoice financing
For new businesses that deal primarily in invoices, invoice financing can be a good option to control cash flow. These allow you to get an advance on your unpaid invoices. Since Net 60 and Net 90 terms are common, invoice financing can reduce the gap between completing work and getting paid for your services.
They can be costly, though. Invoice financing is considered a short-term business loan — which means higher interest rates. And if your client doesn’t pay, you’ll still be responsible for paying back your advance.
Fundbox business loans
600
Min. Credit Score
4.99%
Starting APR
$150,000
Max Loan Amount
Funbox is one of the few invoice financing companies that accepts businesses that have just opened their doors. It only requires you to be established — annual revenue and time in business won't play a large role in its decision. But like most invoice financing companies, you'll be expected to make payments every week. You'll also need to use specific accounting software to be eligible.
- Accepts all established businesses
- Fair credit OK
- Low starting APR of 4.99%
- Must use eligible accounting software
- Weekly payments required
| Min. Loan Amount |
$1,000
|
|---|
| Max. Loan Amount |
$150,000
|
|---|
| APR |
4.99%
|
|---|
| Interest Rate Type |
Fixed
|
|---|
| Min. Credit Score |
600
|
|---|
| Turnaround Time |
As soon as 1 business day
|
|---|
Merchant cash advances
A merchant cash advance allows you to borrow money against payments made with a credit card. Like invoice financing, it’s a short-term solution meant to cover gaps in cash flow. Because of this, merchant cash advances can be expensive.
Costs are calculated by using factor rates, which are typically between 1.1 to 1.5. The factor rate is multiplied by the amount your business has advanced. So if you borrow a merchant cash advance of $10,000 with a factor rate of 1.3, your business will pay $13,000 back to the lender.
Merchant cash advances rely on your sales and don’t require a credit check, so they’re typically a quick choice for startups.
Fora Financial business loans
670
Min. Credit Score
Varies
Starting APR
$500,000
Max Loan Amount
Fora Financial isn't the most upfront about its costs, but it does accept businesses open as little as six months. Your business will need to meet a pretty hefty monthly revenue requirement of $12,000 — and potentially make daily or weekly payments — but this is typical of most merchant cash advance providers. Most unique is Fora Financial's early payment discount to help reduce the cost of your advance.
- Discounts for early payments
- Startups eligible
- Competitive factor rates
- Limited information available online
- Long turnaround for a short-term lender
- Daily or weekly repayments
| Min. Loan Amount |
$5,000
|
|---|
| Max. Loan Amount |
$500,000
|
|---|
| APR |
Varies
|
|---|
| Interest Rate Type |
Fixed
|
|---|
| Min. Credit Score |
670
|
|---|
| Minimum Loan Term |
4 months
|
|---|
| Maximum Loan Term |
15 months
|
|---|
How startup loans can benefit your business
Startup business loans give you access to capital you might have not had. With it, you’ll be able to fund your expenses without selling equity — all while improving your business’s positive payment history and building a relationship with a lender.
- Speeds up growth
- Funds initial expenses
- No equity requirement
- Build business credit
When you should consider alternate options
But borrowing isn’t always the best idea when you’re just getting started. Not only will it be more difficult to qualify and potentially more expensive, but you’ll be responsible for any money your business borrows if it isn’t able to be repaid.
- Higher interest rates
- Personal guarantees
- Strict requirements
What are some alternative ways I can finance a startup?
A business loan isn’t the only to cover
the costs of your new business — it might not even be the best option. Before you take out a loan, consider your choices to find the right combination of funding.
1. Unsecured business loans
An unsecured business loan doesn’t require any collateral. These can be hard to come by if you haven’t opened your business yet, and it can be expensive since lenders tend to see startups as a risk. However, they have a number of benefits: You won’t risk losing any of your business’s assets if things don’t work out and can’t pay back the loan. But you could still lose some of your personal assets if it requires a personal guarantee.
Unsecured business loans don’t necessarily have to be term loans. Lenders like Kabbage and BlueVine offer lines of credit that your business can draw from as needed — but newer startups are unlikely to meet the time in business requirements set by most providers.
2. Secured business loans
A secured business loan is backed by some of your business or personal assets as collateral. They can be easier to come by as a startup since the collateral offsets the risk for the lender. They also tend to have more favorable rates and terms than unsecured business loans. But you risk losing your collateral if you or your business isn’t able to repay the loan.
Compare secured and unsecured business loans
3. SBA loans
These government-backed loans come with some of the most competitive rates and terms out there. While not all programs are available to startups, your business might be able to qualify for a microloan or other small loan, which typically run up to $350,000. But they’re not always easy to get — only 54% of SBA loan applicants were approved in 2016, according to a Federal Reserve survey. You should also be prepared to spend at least a month working on the application and even longer waiting for an approval decision.
4. Microloans
Microloans are small-dollar financing available to all types of businesses, including startups. They are designed to help you cover the little things when you’re just getting on your feet — like buying office supplies or stocking up on your first set of inventory. Microloans, like those offered by Kiva and Accion, typically start around $500 and come with shorter terms than your typical unsecured loan, but they also tend to have higher rates.
5. Personal loans
If you have strong personal credit and a steady source money coming in, personal loans could be a better deal than a business loan when you want to start a business. Your lack of experience won’t hurt your application, and many states don’t allow lenders to charge more than 36% APR. However, personal loans rarely go above $100,000 or come with terms longer than seven years, so it might not be able to cover all of your startup costs.
6. Equity investments
One of the more common ways to fund a startup is to take on investors in exchange for equity, or partial ownership of the company. Typically, small businesses can get an equity investment through a venture capital firm or an angel investor.
There’s no limit to how much money you can raise through this method. And while you won’t have to pay back any of the money you receive from an investor, you could lose partial control of your company.
You may want to keep a lawyer on retainer for this sort of funding though. They’ll help you navigate securities laws so your business can avoid legal issues down the road.
7. Crowdfunding
Entrepreneurs that have an pitchable idea might want to look into equity or rewards-based crowdfunding. With equity crowdfunding, your company starts an online campaign to receive funding from multiple investors in exchange for partial ownership.
With rewards-based crowdfunding, your business offers prizes in exchange for donations. Like a personal loan, crowdfunding might not cover all of your startup costs, but could be great for funding a project.
And although slightly different, peer-to-peer lenders like Funding Circle offer similar loans, although your business will have to pay interest on any funds it receives.
However, new regulations are being put in place. The amount of funding you’re able to get may end up restricted, depending on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rulings.
8. Business grants
Startups with a mission — especially nonprofits — might want to look into business grants to get off the ground. Like an investment, you don’t have to repay a grant. However, they can be highly competitive and require a lot of work. They also typically don’t get much higher than around $15,000, so it will likely need to be supplemented by other funding methods.
9. Credit cards
A credit card can be a great way to cover smaller expenses and manage your company’s spending since multiple people can have cards from the same account. Some of the top startup-friendly business credit cards have a 0% APR promotional period, making it a viable option for businesses that expect to be able to pay off what they spend within the first year. Other types of business credit cards offer rewards on office supplies, Internet and other costs you might incur during growth.
10. Rollover for business startups (ROBS)
If you’re willing to borrow from your retirement plan, a ROBS might be a worthwhile investment for your startup. It involves taking advantage of a tax loophole that allows your business to access these funds without paying a penalty if it’s the right type of corporation.
You need to have at least $50,000 in your retirement account to qualify and could face heavy fines, so many business owners opt to hire a third party to handle the complicated details. But if it works, you won’t have to pay any interest, early withdrawal fees or lose equity in your company.
11. Friend and family loans
Borrowing from your friends and family is sometimes the easiest way to get a good deal on startup funding — and there’s a chance you might not have to pay interest or sell any equity. Want to make it official? Use a service like LoanWell to whip together a legally binding contract with interest fees and late penalties.
Which banks offer startup business loans?
Community banks sometimes offer startup business loans — though not all do. These business loans are closer to a personal loan to start a business than a traditional business loan.
A community bank can be a good option for starting a business because these lenders tend to charge lower interest rates and fees than online startup lenders. If you work with a banker that’s an expert in your industry, you’ll also get access to personalized financial advice. This can be crucial during those tough first few years.
And when your business is ready for a regular business loan, you’ll already have a relationship with a bank that knows your business from the beginning. This can speed up the funding time and might make it easier to get approved — if your business is doing well.
What are the differences between debt finance and equity finance?
There are three main types of funding: Debt, equity or internal funds. Debt involves borrowing money from a business lender, equity finance is provided by an owner or investor, and internal funds are derived from cash flow or profits.
In a business’s early stages, internal funds can be harder to come by. This leaves you with a choice between debt and equity finance.
| Where to find it | - Banks
- Credit unions
- Online lenders
| - Angel investors
- Family and friends
- Business partners
- Crowdfunding
|
| How much you can borrow | Business loans usually range from $1,000 to $5,000,000. | It could be hundreds or millions of dollars, depending on the source. |
| How it’s repaid | You make regular payments to repay the debt. Terms differ depending on the lender. | It isn’t repaid, but the financiers may then own a part of the business or take part in decision-making. |
| Pros | - You stay in control of your business
- Some business lenders have flexible eligibility criteria
- There’s a range of loan types available
- Funding can be quick depending on the turnaround time
| - No collateral is required
- You’re not required to repay the funds
- Investors can provide strategic guidance for the business
- No exposure to interest rate changes
|
| Cons | - You may be required to provide collateral as security
- There may be restrictions on the fund use
- Your profits need to be used to repay the debt
| - Finding equity finance is usually a slow process
- You usually give up some control of your business or the business decision-making power
- The funds can come with restrictions on usage
- There may be conflicts with investors on which direction to take the business
|
How do I qualify for a business startup loan?
Startup business loan requirements vary from lender to lender. However, most focus on the entrepreneur’s history of paying off personal debt rather than the business itself. You’ll have the most options if you meet the following criteria.
- Good credit. Many business startup loan providers ask for a 680 credit score or higher.
- No recent bankruptcies. In addition to looking at your credit score, startup lenders typically also look at your credit report. Bankruptcies stay on your report for seven years.
- No recent delinquencies. If you’ve been late paying off debt, that could also hurt your chances of getting a startup loan.
- A strong business plan. Since your business doesn’t have a track record to back itself up, your business plan is often the only place where you get to make a case for yourself.
Can I get a startup business loan with bad credit?
It’s possible to get a startup business loan with bad credit. But it depends on the type of loan your business needs. There are business loans available for people with bad credit, and some options — like ROBS or crowdfunding — won’t necessarily rely on your credit score. You may be able to qualify for some term loans or alternate types of business loans, but be aware that these come with a higher price tag.
If you’re just starting out, it may be worth improving your personal credit score before borrowing for your business.
How to apply for a startup loan
Once you know how much you need to borrow and have compared lenders, you’re ready to apply. To speed up the application process, ask your lender what documents and information you’ll need before you apply. Many ask to see financial projections, a business plan and your credit report.
Next, follow your lender’s instructions to complete the application. Most have online applications, but you may also need to speak with a loan specialist first to make sure your business is a good fit. Once you’ve spoken with someone and confirm you and your business are eligible, follow the instructions on the application. And if you run into any trouble, don’t be afraid to reach out to customer service for help.
What documents will I need to provide?
Lenders will want to see at least these documents when you submit an application:
- Business plan
- Growth and revenue forecasts
- Recent personal and business tax returns
- Bank statements
Other documents or information may also be necessary. Check with your lenderto ensure you have everything in order before you apply.
Recap: Best startup business loans of 2021
Funding your startup can help increase profits, but it can be risky and expensive. Steer clear of startup loans until you have a well-thought-out business plan in place — even the best ideas require careful implementation. And remember that there are plenty of options at every stage of the business process, so read our guide to business loans for an overview of how funding your startup works.
- Seek Business Capital: Best overall
- Lendio: Best for rate shopping
- Guidant Financial: Best for starting a business
- SBG Funding: Best for startups in the growth phase
- SunWise Capital: Best for finding a low rate
- US Business Funding: Best for online startups
- My Solo 401k Financial: Best for using your retirement funds
- Kiva: Best for microloans
- Diamond Business Loans: Best for startups in high-risk industries
Compare more startup friendly business loans
How much can I borrow from a private lender? Until what amount he can give me with my house property as a collateral? Where can I find private lenders that give big amounts of money for business and for buying my instruments, an amount of 1 million with my house property as a collateral?? I want to find a real one because there are a lot of frauds. I am waiting for your urgent response. Thank you!
Hi Faratzi,
Thank you for contacting Finder. We are a comparison website and general information service, we’re more than happy to offer general advice.
Generally, large loan amounts usually have specific eligibility criteria which include a minimum income requirement as this is one way for lenders to make sure their borrowers have the capacity to repay their loan amount. Lenders will also take into consideration your credit standing, employment status, outstanding loan, and other liabilities in their decision-making.
You can compare business loans for options that may suit your needs. You may review and compare the offers available on the table. Once you have selected one, you may proceed by clicking the green “Go to Site” button.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Danielle
Currently I am on employed but intend to start my own online business as an affiliate marketer through a well established training program called Aspire. I have absolutely no personal funds to use to pay for their training program which costs $2000. Although they cannot guarantee instant income, their average affiliates start making $8000 per month in the first 90 days. Also, my credit rating is approximately 560 right now. Where can I possibly get a $2-3,000 start up business loan to start my business?
Hi Laurel,
Thank you for your inquiry.
Many business lenders require that your business has been established for at least six months and that it’s meeting certain revenue minimums. There are some lenders who may consider your business plan and personal credit profile in lieu of business experience to evaluate your loan application and assess risks. We do have a guide about startup loans that will help you understand how you can get a business loan in the early stages. You could also get a personal loan to start a new business.
I hope this information has helped.
Cheers,
Harold