Startup Funding
Startup loans and funding for new small businesses. From SBA microloans to online lenders specializing in businesses under 2 years old, these partners help new business owners access capital even without an extensive track record. Options range from $5K microloans to $500K+ in startup capital.
What You Need to Know
Getting funding for a new business is one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face, most traditional lenders require 2+ years of operating history and established revenue. Startup funding partners specialize in bridging this gap, offering capital to businesses as young as 3-6 months old with revenue as low as $8,000-$12,000 per month. Funding amounts range widely: SBA microloans offer $500 to $50,000 with rates from 8-13% and terms up to 6 years. Online startup lenders provide $5,000 to $500,000 with rates from 10-35% APR depending on risk profile. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) like Accion offer $5,000 to $250,000 at below-market rates for underserved entrepreneurs. For the absolute earliest stage, platforms like Kiva provide 0% interest microloans up to $15,000 through community crowdfunding, no credit score required. Credit requirements are more lenient than established business lending: many startup lenders accept personal credit scores of 500-600, and some (like CDFIs and Kiva) have no minimum at all. The key to qualifying is showing revenue momentum, even 3-6 months of consistent deposits can demonstrate viability. Funding speed varies: online lenders can fund in 24-72 hours, while SBA microloans and CDFI loans take 2-6 weeks. Pro tip: taking and repaying a small startup loan is one of the fastest ways to establish business credit, which unlocks better rates and higher limits for future borrowing.