Loans, grants, investors, and readiness

Find capital that fits the business.

Compare debt, equity, grants, revenue-based financing, invoice tools, and government-backed options.

SBA-backed loans

Often useful for working capital, equipment, acquisition, real estate, and expansion when lender requirements fit.

SBA loans

Bank line of credit

Flexible short-term working capital. Lenders care about cash flow, credit, collateral, and time in business.

Grants

Competitive and specific. Watch eligibility, reporting requirements, and scams that ask for upfront fees.

Grants.gov

Equity investors

Growth capital in exchange for ownership. Requires clean cap table, pitch, market proof, and legal documents.

Lender packet

  • Two to three years of business and personal tax returns.
  • Year-to-date financial statements and bank statements.
  • Debt schedule, ownership documents, leases, licenses, insurance.
  • Use of funds, forecast, collateral details, and owner resume.

Red flags

  • Guaranteed approval before review.
  • Pressure to sign quickly or hide terms.
  • Large upfront fees for grants or loans.
  • No written APR, repayment schedule, collateral terms, or default terms.