Business Loans Articles & Tips

Business Loans for Women: 2026 Small Business Financing Options

40% of American businesses are owned by women and that number keeps rising. Still, any woman entrepreneur knows the imbalances of the world of business. Here are some great strategies, built for women, to get the needed funding to grow a business.

More Than Half of Business Owners Dipped Into Personal Savings Last Year: Here’s How to Avoid That

Jul. 08, 2026

More Than Half of Business Owners Dipped Into Personal Savings Last Year: Here’s How to Avoid That

More than half of small business owners used personal savings to cover business expenses last year, putting their financial security at risk. Better cash flow management, financial separation, and strategic borrowing are more sustainable alternatives than dipping into personal funds.

Can You Get a Business Loan Without a Bank Account? What Entrepreneurs Need to Know

Jul. 03, 2026

Can You Get a Business Loan Without a Bank Account? What Entrepreneurs Need to Know

Most traditional business loans require a bank account, but nonprofit microlenders, platform-native fintech lenders, and personal loans are realistic alternatives. Opening a business bank account before you need financing remains the smartest move, since it significantly expands your options down the line.

Top 3 Best OnDeck Alternatives in 2026: Small Business Lenders Worth Considering

Jul. 02, 2026

Top 3 Best OnDeck Alternatives in 2026: Small Business Lenders Worth Considering

OnDeck is a well-known online business lender, but its rates, loan caps, and qualification requirements aren't the right fit for every business. Biz2Credit, SoFi, and Fundera are strong alternatives depending on how much you need, how quickly you need it, and your credit profile.

How to Get a DUNS Number: What It Is and Why You Need One

May. 12, 2026

How to Get a DUNS Number: What It Is and Why You Need One

You're filling out a business loan application, and you hit a field asking for your DUNS number. You've heard the term before, but you're not sure what it is — or whether you even have one. Here's what you need to know.

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Small Business?

May. 10, 2026

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Small Business?

Most small businesses require between $2,000 and $50,000 to launch, depending on the industry and business model. Online and service-based businesses often start under $20,000, while retail stores, restaurants, and manufacturing operations may require $100,000 or more.

The Real Cost of Borrowing: What Interest Rates Don’t Capture

Apr. 30, 2026

The Real Cost of Borrowing: What Interest Rates Don’t Capture

The interest rate on a loan is only part of what you'll actually pay. Understanding APR, hidden fees, and deferred interest can help you avoid costly surprises.

Why Traditional Bank Loans Are Still Hard for Many Small Businesses to Get

Apr. 30, 2026

Why Traditional Bank Loans Are Still Hard for Many Small Businesses to Get

Traditional banks are lending less to small businesses due to rising interest rates, stricter standards, and tighter margins. Here's why you're being denied and what you can do to improve your chances.

Online Business Lenders vs. Traditional Banks: Which Is Better?

Apr. 09, 2026

Online Business Lenders vs. Traditional Banks: Which Is Better?

Banks are better for established businesses seeking lower interest rates (typically 6–12% APR) and long-term financing. Online lenders are better for businesses that need fast funding (1–3 days) or don’t meet strict bank requirements. The right choice depends on whether speed or total borrowing costs matter more to your business loan.

Credit Union vs Bank Business Loans: Pros and Cons

Mar. 26, 2026

Credit Union vs Bank Business Loans: Pros and Cons

However, banks are typically a better choice for larger loan amounts, faster approvals, and more advanced financial tools. The right option depends on your financing needs, credit profile, and how quickly you need access to funds.

11 Types of Business Loans: Which Option is Right for You?

Jan. 10, 2026

9 min read

11 Types of Business Loans: Which Option is Right for You?

Choosing the right business loan starts with understanding your options. From term loans and SBA financing to invoice factoring and credit cards, each type of business loan offers unique benefits, costs, and eligibility criteria.

How to Apply For and Get a Business Loan in 7 Steps

Jan. 10, 2026

8 min read

How to Apply For and Get a Business Loan in 7 Steps

Applying for a business loan can be a game-changer for starting, expanding, or stabilizing your small business. Whether you need funding for working capital, inventory, hiring, or equipment, the key to approval lies in preparation.

How to Get a Business Loan with Bad Credit

Jan. 10, 2026

How to Get a Business Loan with Bad Credit

Taking out a business loan can help your business launch, grow, or sustain itself during a slow period. However, credit is the cornerstone of qualifying for a low-interest loan, and not every business (or business owner) has great credit.

How Much Collateral Do You Need for a Business Loan?

Dec. 28, 2025

How Much Collateral Do You Need for a Business Loan?

Want better loan terms and higher approval odds? The right collateral could be your key to success.

How To Get A Business Loan With Limited Proof Of Income

Dec. 07, 2025

How To Get A Business Loan With Limited Proof Of Income

What do most business loans have in common? Besides helping businesses grow, these loans typically come with strict eligibility requirements.

Secured Business Loans: What You Need To Know

Dec. 03, 2025

Secured Business Loans: What You Need To Know

When traditional loans are out of reach due to credit concerns or limited operating history, secured business loans can provide the financing your business needs.

What Is a Business Line of Credit - and Is It Right for Your Business?

Dec. 03, 2025

What Is a Business Line of Credit - and Is It Right for Your Business?

A business line of credit could be the tool you’ve been looking for. Unlike lump-sum loans, credit lines let you borrow as needed, repay, and borrow again, ideal for managing cash flow or handling surprise expenses.

What Are Common Small Business Loan Terms?

Dec. 03, 2025

What Are Common Small Business Loan Terms?

Even the most successful small businesses can use a cash infusion from time to time. Small businesses may need money to make it through a slow season, capital to expand or buy new equipment, or access to revolving credit for everyday expenses.

Business Loan Terms: From Short-Term to Long-Term Financing

Business Loan Terms: From Short-Term to Long-Term Financing

Business loan terms can range from a few months to several decades, depending on your needs and qualifications.

Holiday Business Loans: How to Fund Your Q4 Inventory

Holiday Business Loans: How to Fund Your Q4 Inventory

Feeling the holiday pressure? Don't let the next holiday season sneak up on you without the proper planning.

How To Get A Small Business Loan Without Collateral

How To Get A Small Business Loan Without Collateral

Are you looking for a small business loan that doesn’t require you to put up collateral? Traditional business loans are often secured, requiring you to pledge an asset to qualify.

Business Loan Application Denied? Here Are Your Next 5 Steps

Business Loan Application Denied? Here Are Your Next 5 Steps

A loan denial isn't the end. It's feedback telling you exactly what to improve.

What Are High-Risk Business Loans?

Understanding high-risk business loans helps you secure funding when traditional financing isn't available.

What Is DSCR and How Does It Affect Your Business Loan Approval?

What Is DSCR and How Does It Affect Your Business Loan Approval?

Looking for a business loan? One figure lenders pay close attention to is your Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR).

What Is Invoice Financing and How Can It Help Your Business?

Nov. 16, 2025

What Is Invoice Financing and How Can It Help Your Business?

Invoice financing gives businesses fast access to cash by turning unpaid invoices into working capital.

LLC Business Loans: How to Qualify and Get Approved

Oct. 27, 2025

LLC Business Loans: How to Qualify and Get Approved

LLCs don’t need special “LLC loans”—they qualify for the same business financing options as most companies. This guide explains how to prepare, apply, and get approved.

Business Loans for Nonprofits: What Are the Best Options?

Sep. 09, 2025

Business Loans for Nonprofits: What Are the Best Options?

Running a nonprofit means facing cash flow challenges that grants and donations can't always immediately solve.

Navigating Interest Rates for Business Loans

Sep. 04, 2025

Navigating Interest Rates for Business Loans

Understanding business loan interest rates can make the difference between securing affordable financing and paying thousands more than necessary.

Improving Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Business Loan

Sep. 02, 2025

Improving Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Business Loan

Improving your business credit score helps you secure better loan terms and faster approvals.

How Do Business Loans Work: A Comprehensive Guide for Entrepreneurs

Aug. 27, 2025

How Do Business Loans Work: A Comprehensive Guide for Entrepreneurs

Understanding business loans helps you secure the right funding for your startup or expansion.

How to Get an SBA Loan: Your Step-by-Step Guide

Aug. 27, 2025

How to Get an SBA Loan: Your Step-by-Step Guide

These government-backed loans offer competitive rates, longer repayment terms, and more flexible requirements than many conventional loans.

How to Refinance a Business Loan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Aug. 26, 2025

How to Refinance a Business Loan: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you struggling with high interest rates on your business loan?

Line of Credit vs. Loan: Which One Fits Your Business Best?

Jun. 16, 2025

Line of Credit vs. Loan: Which One Fits Your Business Best?

A line of credit and a loan are two common business financing tools that offer different ways to access capital. A loan provides a lump sum with fixed payments, while a line of credit offers flexible, on-demand funding. Understanding their differences is crucial for selecting the right option based on a business’s specific financial needs.

Government Grants vs. Business Loans: Which Is Better for Your Business?

Jun. 15, 2025

Government Grants vs. Business Loans: Which Is Better for Your Business?

Looking to fund your small business? When evaluating business loans vs government grants, it's essential to understand how each option can serve your needs. Grants provide funds you don't repay, while loans offer more flexible financing with repayment terms.

Jun. 15, 2025