Best Startup Business Loans Of 2025

Featured Partner Offers

Funding amounts

Up to $1 million
Revenue-based financing. Varies depending on product and qualifications

Minimum credit score

650*
*See website for details

Time in business

12 months+*
*See website for details

Loan amounts

$5,000 to $250,000

Loan Amounts

$5,000 to $3,000,000

APR Range

Varies by product

BEST STARTUP BUSINESS LOAN FOR QUICK FUNDING

QuickBridge

APR range

Factor rates start at 1.11

Editor’s Take

QuickBridge is an alternative loan platform that provides small business loans and working capital loans up to $500,000 across all 50 states.

Why We Like It

QuickBridge can fund startup business loans within 24 hours, and requires as little as six months in business. It offers flexible loan terms and early payoff discounts.

Why We Don’t Like It

QuickBridge requires a minimum annual revenue of $250,000 for small business loans, which may make it out of reach for some startups.

Who’s It Best For

QuickBridge is best for startups that need funding quickly.

Pros & Cons

Flexible repayment options
Quick application and fast funding deposited to a bank account
Early payoff discounts

Loan interest may be high
$250,000 minimum annual revenue requirement for small business loans
Only short-term repayment terms are available

Details

Eligibility

Minimum credit score: 600
Time in business: six months
Minimum revenue: $250,000 per year

Turnaround time

You can apply and receive a decision from QuickBridge on the same day.

BEST STARTUP BUSINESS LOAN FOR SHORT TERMS

OnDeck

Editor’s Take

OnDeck has been in operation since 2006 and has funded more than $15 billion in small business loans.

Why We Like It

OnDeck offers business loans from $5,000 to $250,000 with repayment terms 12-, 18 or 24 months. You can also access $6,000 up to $100,000 through its line of credit with a 12-, 18 or 24-month repayment term.

Why We Don’t Like It

Startups need at least one year in business, $100,000 in annual revenue and a 625 credit score to qualify for a short-term loan, and there are some industries OnDeck can’t serve.

Who’s It Best For

OnDeck business loans are best for startups needing a short-term loan to cover immediate expenses.

Pros & Cons

Term loans from $5,000 to $250,000
Lines of credit from $6,000 to $100,000
Same-day funding
Low minimum credit score requirement

$100,000 minimum annual revenue requirement
Must have been operating for at least one year
Does not lend to businesses in North Dakota

Details

Eligibility

Minimum credit score: 625
Time in business: One year
Minimum revenue: $100,000 per year

Turnaround time

You can apply and receive a decision from OnDeck on the same day.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Overall rating: 3.1/5 — Satisfied

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

Some customers praised the lender for its quick and straightforward lending process, while others complained of high interest rates and feeling misled about rates and fees.

Disclaimer: The Consumer Sentiment Index from Forbes Advisor uses a proprietary weighting system designed by our subject matter experts. It evaluates thousands of consumer insights and reviews from leading online forums to determine customer satisfaction at scale.

BEST STARTUP BUSINESS LOAN FOR LARGE LOANS

Fora Financial Business Loans

On Fora Financial Business Loans’ website

Editor’s Take

Fora Financial is an online lender that provides short-term loans and revenue advances to small businesses. It offers loans up to up to $1.5 million.

Why We Like It

Fora Financial requires a personal credit score of 570 and only six months in business. The lender also provides early repayment discounts and can fund loans as quickly as 24 hours.

Why We Don’t Like It

Fora Financial’s longest repayment term is 18 months and loans have a one-time processing fee starting at 2.5% of the loan amount. Also, businesses need at least $20,000 in monthly revenue to qualify.

Who’s It Best For

Fora Financial is best for startups needing large loans or revenue advances of up to $1.5 million.

Pros & Cons

Large loan amounts of up to $1.5 million
Low minimum credit score requirement
Offers prepay discounts

Short repayment terms of up to 18 months
Funding is slower than competitor lenders on our list
Daily or weekly repayments

Details

Eligibility

Minimum credit score: 570
Time in business: Six months
Minimum revenue: $20,000 in monthly revenue per month

Turnaround time

Fora Financial offers approvals within 24 hours and funding within 72 hours.

BEST STARTUP BUSINESS LOAN FOR FLEXIBLE QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Fundbox

APR range

Interest rates start at 4.66%

Editor’s Take

Fundbox is an AI-powered business lending platform that offers decisions within three minutes and next-business-day funding.

Why We Like It

Fundbox requires a personal credit score of 600, three months in business and at least $100,000 in annual revenue, making it one of the easier lenders to qualify with.

Why We Don’t Like It

Fundbox only offers short-term financing with weekly repayments.

Who’s It Best For

Fundbox is best for small businesses that can meet the eligibility requirements for a line of credit and are comfortable with weekly payments.

Pros & Cons

No prepayment penalty
Low minimum annual revenue requirement
Next-business-day funding

Only short-term repayment terms are available
Does not disclose APRs

Details

Eligibility

Minimum credit score: 600
Time in business: Three months
Minimum revenue: $100,000 per year

Turnaround time

With a business line of credit from Fundbox, you can receive your funds as soon as the next business day.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Overall rating: 3.7/5 — Satisfied

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

Fundbox often receives positive customer reviews, many of which mention ease of use, quick approval, and straightforward repayment terms. Nonetheless, some users noted concerns about customer service, unexpected pauses placed on their accounts, and high interest rates and fees for late payments.

BEST STARTUP BUSINESS LOAN FOR ROBUST OPTIONS

National Funding

Editor’s Take

National Funding is an alternative lender offering short-term working capital loans from $5,000 to $500,000 and equipment financing up to $150,000.

Why We Like It

Business owners can apply for short-term and long-term business loans, as well as equipment financing. National Funding requires just six months in business and can fund loans within 24 hours of approval.

Why We Don’t Like It

National Funding requires a minimum of $250,000 in annual revenue and daily or weekly payments for working capital loans.

Who’s It Best For

National Funding is best for startups interested in various financing options, including working capital loans and equipment financing.

Pros & Cons

Financing up to $500,000
Early payoff discounts
Most loans are funded within 24 hours of approval

Requires daily or weekly payments
Potentially high borrowing costs
Requires minimum gross annual sales of $250,000

Details

Eligibility

Minimum credit score: 600 (575 for equipment financing)
Time in business: Six months
Minimum sales: $250,000 per year

Turnaround time

Most loans are funded within 24 hours of approval, subject to receipt of required documentation, underwriting guidelines and processing time by your bank.

BEST STARTUP BUSINESS LOAN FOR EQUIPMENT FINANCING

Balboa Capital

Editor’s Take

Balboa Capital is a division of Ameris Bank that offers equipment financing up to $500,000 and small business loans from $5,000 to $250,000 .

Why We Like It

Balboa Capital can approve equipment financing loans within one hour and fund them the same day. Balboa Capital requires a credit score of 620 or higher and an annual revenue of at least $100,000.

Why We Don’t Like It

Balboa Capital requires one year in business to qualify for equipment financing.

Who’s It Best For

Balboa Capital is best for startups that need equipment financing for up to $500,000.

Pros & Cons

Loans from $5,000 to $250,000
Online application with quick funding
May qualify with just a year in business

$300,000 annual revenue requirement
Not suited for new businesses

Details

Eligibility

Minimum credit score: 620
Time in business: At least one year
Minimum annual revenue: $300,000

Turnaround time

In some cases, you may be able to apply and get funding within the same day.

BEST STARTUP BUSINESS LOAN FOR MERCHANT CASH ADVANCES

Biz2Credit

Loan amounts

Up to $1 million

Varies depending on qualifications

Minimum Credit Score

650*

*See website for details

Up to $1 million

Varies depending on qualifications

650*

*See website for details

Editor’s Take

Biz2Credit is a digital funding platform that provides businesses with revenue-based financing, term loans and commercial real estate loans.

Why We Like It

Biz2Credit’s revenue-based financing—which functions similarly to merchant cash advances—requires just six months* in business and a minimum credit score of 575.

Why We Don’t Like It

Biz2Credit requires a minimum annual revenue of $250,000 and it isn’t clear about the fees you may be charged at closing.

Who’s It Best For

Biz2Credit is best for startups that need revenue-based financing and can meet the eligibility requirements.

Pros & Cons

Revenue-based financing has flexible qualification requirements
Can prequalify for submitting an application
Offers term loans with weekly or biweekly payments

Does not disclose financing costs
Does not disclose turnaround time
High annual revenue requirement

Details

Eligibility

Eligibility varies based on the financing option you choose.

Term loan

Minimum credit score: 650
Time in business: 18 months
Minimum revenue: $250,000 per year

Revenue-based financing

Minimum credit score: 575
Time in business: 6 months
Minimum revenue: $10,000 per year

Turnaround time

Biz2Credit does not disclose the turnaround time for its financing options.

BEST FOR STARTUP BUSINESS LINES OF CREDIT

American Express® Business Line of Credit*

Minimum Credit Score

660* FICO at the time of application

Editor’s Take

American Express® offers many financial products for small businesses, including checking accounts, credit cards and business lines of credit.

Why We Like It

With American Express, you can get a credit line from $2,000 to $250,000. The line has flexible term and funding options with an American Express® Business Checking account. You need at least $3,000 in average monthly income to qualify, which is lower than many lender requirements.

Why We Don’t Like It

Although you need at least $3,000 in average monthly revenue, American Express requires a minimum time in business of at least one year**. On top of that, credit limits over $150,000 are available only to select customers.

Who’s It Best For

American Express® Business Line of Credit is best for startups that have an American Express® Business Checking account.

Pros & Cons

No prepayment penalty
Four different repayment options
Offers small to large lines of credit

Monthly fees on unpaid balances
Requires personal guarantee
Lines of credit over $150,000 are only available to borrowers who meet additional criteria

Details

Eligibility

Minimum credit score: 660* FICO at the time of application*
Time in business: At least one year**
Average revenue: at least $3,000 monthly

All businesses are unique and are subject to approval and review**. The required FICO score may be higher based on your relationship with American Express, credit history and other factors.*

Turnaround time

Once application is approved, funds can take up to three business days to appear in your account, depending on your bank.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Overall rating: 2.6/5 – Neutral

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

American Express Business Line of Credit received mixed reviews from borrowers. Some appreciated the reasonable rates and the ease of getting funding, but there were issues with customer service and applications being denied for unclear reasons.

*American Express® Business Line of Credit offers two loan types, installment loans and single repayment loans for eligible borrowers. All loan term types, loan term lengths, and pricing are subject to eligibility requirements, application, and final approval.
This [content / article] contains general information about the American Express® Business Line of Credit installment loan type only.

BEST FOR FLEXIBLE STARTUP BUSINESS LINE OF CREDIT TERMS

Bluevine

APR range

Simple interest starts at 7.8%

Editor’s Take

Bluevine is a fintech company offering business lines of credit from $5,000 to $250,000 with six- or 12-month repayment terms.

Why We Like It

With Bluevine, you can get a credit decision in as little as five minutes with instant funding if you have a Bluevine Business Checking account.

Why We Don’t Like It

The Bluevine line of credit isn’t available to startups in Nevada, North Dakota and South Dakota. Businesses less than two years old must sign up for the weekly repayment plan, which requires at least $40,000 monthly or $480,000 annually and a minimum 625 credit score.

Who’s It Best For

Bluevine’s line of credit is best for startups that need a flexible line of credit they can use and repay over a six- or 12-month period.

Pros & Cons

Receive a decision within five minutes and instant funding with a Bluevine business checking account, or receive funds within 24 hours
Lines of credit up to $250,000
Low credit score requirement

No mobile app for its line of credit
Monthly revenue requirement
Not available to businesses in Nevada, North Dakota, South Dakota, Puerto Rico and other U.S. territories

Details

Eligibility

Eligibility varies on the specific program a business owner chooses.

Weekly plan

Minimum credit score: 625
Time in business: Less than one year
Minimum revenue: $40,000 monthly or $480,000 annually
Business type: Corporation or LLC
Bankruptcies: No past bankruptcies

Monthly plan

Minimum credit score: 700
Time in business: Three years
Minimum revenue: $80,000 per month or $960,000 annually
Business type: Corporation or LLC

Turnaround time

After you submit your application, you can receive a decision in as quickly as five minutes and instant funding with a Bluevine business checking account. Borrowers who don’t have a Bluevine business checking account can receive funds within 24 hours.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Overall rating: 2.4/5 — Neutral

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

Bluevine’s borrowers reported quick application processes and funding times, but many were also disappointed with their experiences. Some customers noted that the customer service was unresponsive and that there were technical issues during the application process.

BEST FOR STARTUP BUSINESS LINES OF CREDIT FROM A BANK

Wells Fargo Business Line of Credit

APR range

Prime + 1.75% to prime + 9.75%

Editor’s Take

Wells Fargo is one of the largest banks in the U.S. It offers two unsecured business lines of credit: BusinessLine for established businesses and Small Business Advantage for newer startups. The bank also has a secured line of credit for businesses with at least $2 to $10 million in revenue.

Why We Like It

Wells Fargo provides lines of credit from $5,000 to $50,000 for startups less than two years old, with no annual fee. Established businesses can access $10,000 to $1 million with lower rates.

Why We Don’t Like It

Wells Fargo typically requires a minimum FICO credit score of 680 and personal guarantees from owners with at least 20% stake in the business, depending on the financing type.

Who’s It Best For

Wells Fargo is best for startups wanting a line of credit from a traditional bank.

Pros & Cons

Offers physical branch locations
Available in all 50 states
Transparent loan costs

Annual fee after first year
Requires at least two years in business
Requires personal guarantee

Details

Eligibility

Minimum credit score: 680
Time in business: Two years
Minimum revenue: Does not disclose
Minimum sales: $2-10 million for its Prime Line of Credit

Turnaround time

Wells Fargo does not disclose its approval and funding turnaround time.

Consumer Sentiment Index

Overall rating: 2.1/5 — Neutral

Based on 6,300 customer insights and reviews for the entire category.

Some borrowers said they appreciated that a line of credit is included in Wells Fargo’s offerings, while others were disappointed with the approval process and the terms and conditions, such as the personal guarantee.

Summary: Best Startup Business Loans of 2025

Tips for Comparing Startup Business Loans

Weigh these tips when comparing startup business loans:

Consider time in business and annual revenue requirements. Because startup businesses don’t have long business histories, it’s crucial to find lenders that deem your business eligible. Lenders set minimum time in business and annual revenue requirements. When comparing lenders, be sure to find lenders that have a minimum time in business and annual revenue requirements that your startup meets.
Determine how you want to receive your funds. It’s likely you’ll receive business financing through one of two ways: as a lump-sum payment or on an as-needed basis. If you want to receive your funds up front, choose a traditional term loan. However, if you want to use funds only as you need them, a business line of credit might be a better option.
Consider the repayment terms and flexibility. Each business financing lender has its own repayment structures. While some types of financing require monthly payments, others may require daily or weekly payments. Compare different lenders’ repayment terms when choosing your preferred lender and business loan.
Look out for additional fees. Some lenders charge no origination fees, late payment fees, prepayment penalties or any other common loan costs. However, it might not always be the case. Be sure to confirm a lender’s fee structure when shopping for the best terms. Factor in additional fees into your decision-making process.
Evaluate the lender’s customer support options. If you’ve found a lender that’s prepared to offer the money you need at acceptable terms, consider the lender’s support options before signing the loan agreement. Customer support can make a huge difference down the line if you encounter issues with repayment. Research the lender’s customer service resources and read reviews to make sure it’s a good fit.

If you’ve recently formed your business, a startup business loan can give you the funding you need to expand and thrive. That said, repaying a business loan can be a substantial obligation. Although the cash can be enticing, make sure repayment won’t stifle your growth.
– Colin Beresford, Deputy Editor Personal & Business Loans

What Is a Startup Business Loan?

A startup business loan is a type of financing that’s accessible to businesses with limited—or no—business or credit history. While the most common startup loans are term loans or U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, startups may also opt for business credit cards or asset-based financing. Startup founders also can opt for less traditional financing tools like crowdfunding to get the working capital they need to start and grow their businesses.

How Does a Startup Business Loan Work?

Startup business loans refer to various forms of financing available to businesses without an established track record or credit history. For that reason, different types of startup loans have different qualification requirements and application processes. Available loan amounts and borrowing terms also vary by lender and loan type. In general, though, startup business loans have less stringent qualifications than traditional business loans, making them more accessible to new businesses.

Pros and Cons of Startup Business Loans

Startup business loans can give your venture the funding it needs to become successful, but that doesn’t come without a cost. Before taking on a loan, be sure to understand the pros and cons of borrowing.

Pros

Funding for your startup. A startup business loan can give your business the money it needs to get off the ground. This can include buying equipment, hiring employees or covering other business-related expenses.
Grow your business. The influx of cash from a business loan can help your startup grow, allowing you to funnel money toward expenses that need to be covered.
Build business credit. Receiving and regularly paying off a business loan can help build your business credit. This can help you qualify for loans in the future and lend more credibility to your venture.

Cons

High costs. Many startup business loans can come with high interest rates and fees as the loan itself is often viewed as risky by the lender. This can eat away at your bottom line and can make repaying the loan difficult.
May require collateral. If your business is just starting out, you may only be able to qualify for a loan backed by collateral or by a personal guarantee. If you default on a loan backed by collateral, the lender can take possession of that asset. With a personal guarantee, the lender can pursue you personally to repay the loan.
Can be difficult to attain. Having a limited time in business and revenue stream can make qualifying for a loan difficult. Consider a lender’s minimum requirements as you shop around for offers.

10 Types of Startup Business Loans

Getting a small business loan can be challenging if your company doesn’t have an established history of success. However, there are several types of startup loans that are suited to a range of needs and qualifications.

1. Online Term Loans

2. SBA Microloans

3. Asset-based Financing

4. Personal Loans for Business

5. Business Credit Cards

6. Friends & Family

7. Crowdfunding

8. Small Business Grants

9. Business Lines of Credit

10. Invoice factoring

What Do I Need for a Startup Business Loan?

In general, lenders look at a startup owner’s personal and business credit scores when evaluating a loan application. Because startups generally have limited financial records and credit history, it can be more difficult to qualify for a business startup loan. In this case, the lender will rely primarily—or exclusively—on the borrower’s personal creditworthiness.

To qualify for a startup business loan, compile these documents before submitting an application:

Personal credit scores and reports. When finalizing your startup business loan application, a lender will conduct a hard credit inquiry—which can temporarily drop your score by up to five points—to confirm your creditworthiness. Request copies of your credit reports and check your credit score before applying for a loan to better understand your approval odds and the potential interest rate you’ll qualify for.
Tax returns. Where possible, be prepared to provide business tax returns from the previous two years. Also compile copies of your personal tax returns and IRS documents for the same period of time. Personal returns will be especially important if your startup is brand new and lacks past returns, and may be necessary for all of the business’ owners and registered agents.
Additional financial records. In addition to tax returns, the lender may require a startup’s bank statements, accounts receivable, credit card sales and unpaid invoices as part of the application process. Lenders often need records going back at least four months, which may be feasible even for a startup.
Business plan. In the absence of lengthy financial records, an up-to-date business plan demonstrates to lenders that your business is capable of repaying its debts. This document should also include a business forecast that describes likely future revenue and expenses.
Business licenses, registrations and legal documents. If applicable, you may need to provide copies of licenses and registration necessary to operate in your state or local jurisdiction. Lenders may also require copies of incorporation documents, business leases, franchise agreements and other contracts.
Banking information. If you’re approved for a startup business loan, the lender needs banking information so it can deposit the funds. This information is typically provided during the application process.

How To Qualify for a Startup Business Loan

Each lender has its own eligibility requirements, including minimum time in business and revenue. In general, qualifications for a startup business loan include:

Credit score. If you have a startup, lenders may consider your personal credit history when evaluating a loan application. A credit score of 670 or higher can increase your odds of approval, and in many cases, higher credit scores translate to lower interest rates.
Personal guarantee. Some lenders may require you to sign a personal guarantee which states that if the business fails, you’ll repay the loan with your personal assets. This makes a loan less risky for the lender, but it can have severe consequences for you if your business can’t make loan payments.
Time in business. Many lenders will require at least two years of business history, but some require just six months in order to qualify for a loan.
Collateral. If your business is approved for a secured loan, the business will be required to back the loan with collateral, or an asset of value that the lender can take possession of if your business fails to repay the loan. These loans can be easier to qualify for than unsecured loans, but have more risk.
Banking relationship. Some lenders may be more inclined to approve applications for startup businesses if the applicant has an existing relationship.
Documentation. Lenders will often require a business plan, expense sheet and financial projections for the next five years to qualify for a startup business loan.

How To Get a Startup Business Loan

The process of getting a startup business loan varies by financial institution and financing type, but most banks and online lenders impose similar requirements. Even so, you may face some additional challenges as a startup with limited financial records and credit history. Follow these steps to get a business loan as a startup:

Evaluate what kind of loan you need. Available loan amounts and repayment terms vary by loan type and lender, so first consider how much you need to borrow and what type of financing you prefer. If you’re a brand new startup, consider whether alternative types of startup financing may be appropriate, or if you’re likely to qualify for a business loan based on your personal credit.
Check your personal and business credit scores. Before you apply for a startup business loan, check all your credit scores. This can help you gauge your approval odds for traditional financing. If necessary, take time to improve your credit score before applying for a startup loan. Likewise, if your startup has been in business for at least a year, it may have a credit score through Experian, Equifax or Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). But it usually takes up to three years for a business to establish credit.
Prepare your startup for due diligence. The loan underwriting process typically involves extensive due diligence to evaluate the business’ creditworthiness. This generally includes a review of the applicant’s business plan, personal and business bank statements and other financial documents. It may also be necessary to provide copies of applicable business licenses and legal documents, a description of how you will use the funds and details about available collateral. As a startup founder, it’s even more important to have a robust business plan that demonstrates the business’ likelihood of success.
Compare lenders to find the best deal. In general, the most competitive interest rates and terms are reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. Depending on your personal credit score and how long your startup has been operational, it may be difficult to qualify for the lowest rates. However, shopping around and comparing multiple lenders will help you lock in the best rates available for your business.
Submit an application. After identifying your preferred lender, review the application process and compile the necessary documentation. Business loan application and underwriting processes vary by lender, but applications can generally be completed online, via telephone or at a branch. Once you submit an application, you may be contacted by a lender representative regarding additional information or documentation, such as business projections or proof of collateral.
Consider alternatives. If you’re not approved for traditional financing like a loan or credit card, evaluate whether there are any feasible alternatives. If you have a friend or family member who has expressed interest in supporting the new business, consider borrowing from them. Alternatively, using a platform like Kickstarter may be the most convenient way to attract new customers and investors.

How To Get a Startup Business Loan With Bad Credit

While some lenders don’t work with applicants who have bad credit, there’s a selection of lenders that cater to such borrowers. If you have a personal FICO credit score below 580, consider a business loan for bad credit.

Lenders may require more documentation than if you had a strong credit score and typically like to see a business plan and cash flow projections to ensure you can afford to take on a new loan. Note that applicants with low credit scores typically receive higher interest rates, which increases the overall cost of borrowing.

If you don’t qualify for a traditional startup loan or a business loan for bad credit, consider other options like a business credit card, which usually has more flexible qualification requirements but lower credit limits.

What If You Are Denied a Startup Business Loan?

Luckily, there are a number of steps you can take if you are denied a startup business loan. Start by finding out why your application was denied. This may be a matter of contacting the lender directly or, in the case of an SBA Microloan, reviewing the notice of denial.

Once you understand why your application was rejected, take steps to address those shortcomings. This often involves waiting to borrow until your startup has more established financials, or taking steps to improve your personal credit score by paying down debt and making on-time payments.

Alternatively, consider another type of startup financing with less stringent lending requirements. For example, if you are denied a traditional loan, a business credit card may offer the funds you need with less robust qualifications. If your startup is simply too new to qualify for any kind of conventional financing, consider starting a crowdfunding campaign or working with friends and family to raise the funds you need.

Alternatives To Consider

If a startup business loan isn’t best for your enterprise or you’re having trouble qualifying, there are other options to pursue to get financing.

Business line of credit. A business line of credit can give your business access to financing on an as-needed basis, up to a predetermined amount. Any withdrawn amount is then repaid with interest.
Business credit card. Business credit cards function similarly to consumer credit cards, but they can only be used for business-related expenses. This financing option can be easier to qualify for than a loan, but comes with high interest rates and fees.
Merchant cash advance. With a merchant cash advance (MCA), your business can receive an advance based on future credit card transactions. The advance is then repaid with those transactions, minus a fee. This financing option typically has minimal qualification requirements but can be more costly than other options.
Small business grants. Before accepting a loan, consider any grant options available to your business. Grants usually don’t have to be repaid, making them a cost-saving option for your business if you can qualify.

Methodology

We reviewed 30 popular lenders based on 16 data points in the categories of loan details, loan costs, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and the application process. We chose the best lenders based on the weighting assigned to each category:

Loan cost. 35%
Loan details. 20%
Customer experience. 20%
Eligibility and accessibility. 10%
Application process. 10%

Within each major category, we also considered several characteristics, including available loan amounts, repayment terms and applicable fees. We also looked at minimum credit score and time in business requirements and the geographic availability of the lender. Finally, we evaluated each provider’s customer support tools, borrower perks and features that simplify the borrowing process—like online applications, prequalification options and mobile apps.

Where appropriate, we awarded partial points depending on how well a lender met each criterion.

To learn more about how Forbes Advisor rates lenders, and our editorial process, check out our Business Loans Rating & Review Methodology.

Best Business Credit Cards 2025

Find the best business card for you & identify which factors matter for your business

¹The required FICO score may be higher based on your relationship with American Express, credit history, and other factors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are loans good for startups?

Startup business loans are an excellent way to start or grow your business, as long as you can afford to repay what you plan to borrow. If you’re unsure if your startup can afford a traditional loan, look into alternative funding methods like friends, family, grants or investors.

Which loan is best for starting a business?

Startups with at least six months of business under their belt should consider business term loans and lines of credit from online lenders, and SBA microloans. If your business has been in operation for less than six months, look into business credit cards for new businesses. Business credit card providers typically rely on your personal credit score for qualification and not your business history.

Is it hard to get a startup business loan?

Startup business loan may be difficult to get depending on how long your business has been in operation. If you can find a lender willing to work with your startup you’ll typically need to do extra legwork. You may need to come up with detailed business projections and market studies, as well as a solid business plan. You may also need to put up collateral for the loan, such as business or personal assets. However, this means your lender can repossess that collateral if you default.

Do banks give loans to startups?

It can be more difficult to find banks that will lend to startups, but there are options. For instance, there are SBA loans that are available to startups looking for funding.

Most banks require at least a few years business and consistent income before they’ll consider you for a business loan.

How much can I get for a startup business loan?

Startup business loans typically range from $1,000 to $250,000, depending on the specific type of loan. Additionally, the largest loan amounts are usually reserved for startups with long business history, substantial annual revenue and strong credit profiles.

Can I get startup business loans with no revenue?

It’s possible to get a startup business loan with no revenue, but it’s rare. Most lenders want to see sufficient business history and revenue that shows you can afford a loan. Businesses with no revenue often look to angel investors, loans from friends and family, secured loans, crowdfunding and grants.

How long does it take to get a startup business loan?

Depending on the lender and type of loan, the loan can be funded within a few days or it can take a month or longer. Having documentation ready—such as your business plan, tax returns and other financial records—can speed up the process.

What credit score do you need for a startup business loan?

This will vary by lender, but the minimum personal credit score requirement can be as low as 560. Some lenders may also want to see your business credit score, so it’s best to start establishing that credit history as soon as possible.