Capital paths for every stage.
A curated directory of the funding types that grow businesses — what each one is, who it fits, and what you need to qualify. Educational, not an offer of credit.
SBA 7(a) Loan
Government-backed term loans through approved lenders. Longer terms and lower down payments than conventional financing.
Best for: Working capital, expansion, equipment or acquiring a business
- 2+ years in business (typically)
- FICO SBSS 160+
- Clean business & personal credit
- Current financials
SBA Microloan
Smaller loans through nonprofit intermediaries, frequently paired with free business mentoring.
Best for: Startups and newer businesses needing smaller capital
- Business plan
- Reasonable personal credit
- Use-of-funds statement
Business Line of Credit
Revolving access to funds you draw as needed and repay — only paying interest on what you use.
Best for: Covering cash-flow gaps and seasonal swings
- 6+ months in business
- Consistent revenue
- Business bank account
Equipment Financing
The equipment itself secures the loan, which often makes approval easier than unsecured credit.
Best for: Vehicles, machinery and technology purchases
- Equipment quote/invoice
- Down payment (varies)
- Business credit profile
Invoice Factoring
Advance cash against outstanding invoices from creditworthy customers — speeds up cash without new balance-sheet debt.
Best for: B2B businesses with slow-paying customers
- Creditworthy B2B customers
- Outstanding invoices
- Aging report
Net-30 Reporting Tradelines
Starter vendor accounts that report on-time payments to the business bureaus — the foundation of a PAYDEX score.
Best for: Building business credit history from scratch
- EIN
- Business bank account
- Consistent business identity (name/address/phone)
Small Business Grants
Non-repayable funding from government agencies, corporations and foundations. Competitive, but free capital when won.
Best for: Businesses that qualify for non-dilutive, non-repayable capital
- Eligibility varies by program
- Strong application narrative
- Often demographic/industry criteria
CDFI & Community Loans
Community Development Financial Institutions offer flexible, mission-driven capital with hands-on support.
Best for: Businesses in underserved markets or with thin credit
- Located in/serving an eligible community
- Business plan
- Reasonable credit
Your Funding Readiness Score maps you to the right capital paths — and tells you what to fix first.
Educational directory · Not an offer, guarantee of approval, or credit application