Small Business Blog Posts | Page 21

Due to their low borrowing limits, SBA Microloans are one of the easiest loans to receive. However, there are borrowing requirements in place, the application and approval process can be time-consuming, and there may be extensive documentation requirements based on the policies of the lender.

If you have questions about completing your loan application, you can always ask your SBA-approved lender. If you haven’t yet found a lender to work with, SCORE is a great resource. This nonprofit organization provides resources and services including free business mentors that can help you through every step of the process.

The Small Business Administration provides invaluable resources to small business owners, from educational materials to low-interest loan programs. One of those programs is CAPLines, which provides qualified business owners with a flexible line of credit up to $5 million. 

The SBA launched the SBA Community Advantage loan program to help businesses in underserved areas receive low-interest financing with reasonable terms. Business owners that can’t receive financing through traditional loan programs can take advantage of competitive rates and terms through this SBA pilot program.

Credit bureaus arose to help lenders quickly gauge the reliability of a potential borrower. In the past, you could go to the good ol’ general store and the owner would know you, your character, and whether or not putting your items on “charge” (or on credit) was a good idea. That method may have worked in the past, when communities were small and isolated, but there had to be a better way moving forward. Thus credit bureaus were born.

Looking for a line of credit? We have searched out and evaluated the best credit lines currently available to businesses of all sizes — from startups and incubator businesses to stable and established operations.

Bankruptcy is probably one of the last things you want to think about. But as unpleasant a prospect as it can be, businesses regularly fail. If that happens, don’t be afraid to look into bankruptcy and give yourself a fresh start.

A seasonal business isn’t without its risks and challenges, but if done right, can be rewarding and lucrative. You can get your business off the ground by doing your research, choosing the right business idea, and using the tools and resources available to you.

Whether you’re buying a hair dryer or investing in a complex point of sale solution, you’re going to want to do your homework before you take the leap. Accounting for negativity bias in the reviews you read will help you make a better, more informed decision.