When starting a business, securing adequate funds to help it grow can be difficult. Fortunately, startup businesses can get a variety of funding options from banks and credit unions to crowdfunding networks.
However, many of these startup business loans require revenue to qualify. For this reason, it’s important to understand how to find startup business loans with no revenue.
1. Private Income
One of the challenges that many new business owners face is securing funding for their startup. A large part of this challenge is due to lenders’ reluctance to loan money to a company that has not yet earned revenue. Despite this, there are several ways that you can secure a startup business loan with no revenue.
For starters, you can check out the many peer-to-peer lending websites for some low-cost unsecured loans. These sites allow you to borrow from a pool of investors in exchange for an interest-free loan. To apply, you will need to have a few forms of identification, your last two pay stubs, and a business plan that you can show proves your worth.
Another option is to look into small business grants. These are often government-based and tend to be more lucrative, as they don’t require repayment. You can also find grants for startups from local nonprofit organizations in your area. These nonprofits may have geographical limitations and may only provide loans to women or veterans, though you can search for organizations with broader scopes that offer similar opportunities.
There are also more traditional options for funding your startup, including equipment financing and term loans from alternative lenders. These can be a good choice for businesses that don’t have the best credit or financial history, as they can be backed by collateral and are often available at lower rates than other types of loans.
Finally, you can consider applying for a 0% APR credit card. Most of these cards come with introductory rates that can be beneficial for your business, but be sure to pay the balance off before it expires.
2. Co-Signing
If you are a small business owner, your revenue stream is an important factor that lenders take into consideration when reviewing your loan application. It provides them with evidence that your business is profitable and can repay your loan on time. However, if your business has yet to make revenue, a lender may still be willing to lend you money.
One way to increase your chances of getting approved for a startup business loan is to find a co-signer who has great credit. This can help you get a loan with better terms and less interest than you would on your own.
A good co-signer should also have a strong history of making timely payments on loans and other bills. It’s a good idea to keep in touch with them and set aside a little extra in your bank account each month in case they miss a payment.
Another way to find a co-signer is to ask friends and family members if they would be willing to co-sign on a business loan for you. Many of these people are looking for financial support and may be good candidates.
The downside to co-signing is that you could be responsible for paying back your friend or family member’s debt. This can be difficult for someone who is just starting out with their own business or who hasn’t built up a solid credit history.
3. Crowdfunding
Crowdfunding is a way for small businesses and startups to raise funds through the public without traditional means. These crowdfunding campaigns are generally hosted on websites, have specific monetary goals, and disclose information about the campaign’s objectives.
There are four types of crowdfunding: donation, equity, debt, and reward-based funding. Each type has its pros and cons.
Donation-based crowdfunding is a form of P2P (peer-to-peer) lending. Backers give money to the campaign, and the campaign repays the donors with interest. This is a popular method for charities, nonprofits, and friends and family.
If you’re looking for a startup business loan with no revenue, this option could be ideal. However, you should make sure to do your research and understand the implications of financing your business through this method.
This method of business financing has many benefits, including efficiency and a wide range of loan options. It’s also less expensive than other forms of financing, such as a traditional bank loan.
You can use the funds you raise through a crowdfunding campaign to purchase new equipment, rent office space, or even build a brand-new storefront. The key is to capture the attention of potential investors by developing a compelling story, attracting backers with the promise of a return, and presenting your business in a way that will engage investors.
There are a variety of online crowdfunding platforms, such as Kickstarter and Indiegogo. These websites are easy to use and allow entrepreneurs to set up a campaign that targets a broad audience.
4. Business Line of Credit
A Business Line of Credit is a flexible loan for businesses that works like a credit card, offering revolving financing. It is generally used for unforeseen expenses, sudden cash-flow needs, or major purchases, providing access to working capital.
When you apply for a Business Line of Credit, your lender will examine your financial history and qualifications. This can include your personal and business credit scores, your annual revenue, the number of years you have been in business, and the specifics of your industry. Some lenders require you to provide physical collateral or sign a personal guarantee.
You can apply for a Business Line of Credit through a bank, credit union or online lender. Interest rates, borrowing limits, and qualifications vary by lender, so it’s important to compare offers from multiple lenders before you make a decision.
Most small business owners choose to use a Business Line of Credit as a way to fund short-term expenses and bridge the gaps between their normal cash flow and larger projects. This can help you to keep your business’s finances running smoothly, avoid the expense of re-financing and build your credit.
While you can dip into a Business Line of Credit as needed, it is recommended that you pay off the funds you have borrowed as quickly as possible. This helps to build your business’s credit, decreases the amount of interest you pay, and can lead to better terms if you need future loans.