Skip to content

2,400+ Clients since 2001 • $4.3+ Billion Raised

The Entrepreneur’s Library: Business Loan Resources

Business Loans

Websites & Articles

A Bank, at Your Service

The number of start-up banks is on the rise, and they're competing with the big boys by catering to business owners.

An Overview of SBA Loan Programs

Answering the Tough Questions

A bank will scrutinize your past business performance. Are you prepared to answer the tough questions when your banker asks them?

Can Your Bank Do This?

"A number of entrepreneurs define for Inc. what makes an exceptional small-business commercial bank."

Going for Broker

"At the end of your rope for ways to finance your business's growth? Forget the usual suspects and try the last place you'd think of."

How To Pitch To Family and Friends

It can be a tough situation when asking family and friends for money, but there is a really good reason to do so: they trust you. Learn the proper way to pitch your idea to mom and dad so they will want to invest in you.

How To: Deal with Your Bankers

Investment firm chairman gives advice on negotiating deals with bankers.

Learning to Live with (or Without) Your Banker

"Questions you should ask yourself before deciding what kind of banking strategy your company needs."

Lilliputian Loans

"When it comes to financing, bigger isn't always better. Have you tried an SBA microloan on for size?"

Loans or Equity: How to Choose the Best Financing for Your Small Business

"Many small businesses do not have the luxury of always having all the money they need to operate. When considering where you can obtain outside cash, there are two common options to consider: loans and equity funding. Both sources have their own advantages and drawbacks."

Me and My Banker

"A hot-company CEO and his banker open up about a relationship that actually works. Sort of."

Money For Small Businesses

Instead of grants, think SBA-backed loans.

National Association of Development Companies (NADCO)

Companies certified by the SBA to provide funding to small businesses under the SBA 504 loan program.

On Deck Capital

On Deck provides a free service for business owners that offers insights into how banks view your business, and the lending options available to you.

Sample Convertible Promissory Note

Sample annotated promissory note from startup attorney White Summers.

SBA Loan & Grant Search Tool

Answer a few quick questions and receive a customized list of funding sources.

SBA's Lender Match

Get matched to potential lenders offering SBA-backed funding.

The Double Whammy of Bankruptcies

Even if you structure your company as an LLC, you may not realize that your personal assets are at risk until it's too late.

The Few, the Proud, the Bankable

Can you get a bank loan from the get-go? It's tricky, but these entrepreneurs did it. Here are their tips for securing a line of credit for your start-up.

The Lowdown on Business Loans

"If you're seeking a loan for your business, make sure you understand the basics."

Think Global, Borrow Local

"Every time you turn around, it seems like one big bank is merging with another big bank. Or, they're gobbling up smaller banks like they're going out of style. This leaves us all with mega-sized institutions with the willingness to increase fees and skimp on personal touches. So here's something you should consider: your local, community bank."

Understanding Loan Covenants

Getting a bank loan? Take these simple steps to make sure you understand the fine print -- before you sign a loan agreement.

What Your Banker Forgot To Tell You

A CFO explains the benefits of examining your banking services, plus a complete banking makeover.

Who Needs a Bank Anyway?

"Nontraditional lenders are emerging as a real alternative to bank financing for growth companies."

WSJ Online- Latest Groans: Small Business Loans

Until recently, startups that had been formed a day ago could, in some cases, borrow as much as $100,000 in less than 24 hours off of a one-page application. Not any more - many financial institutions are tightening credit standards.

You're Approved!

"Your goal is to secure financing. Your prospective lender's goal is to understand your company's financial and non-financial aspects so well that he or she becomes comfortable with giving you money. Therefore, to best meet your need for capital, you should try addressing the needs of the lender first."


Disclaimer: Inclusion in this directory does not constitute an endorsement. The materials linked to from this page are copyrighted to their respective owners.

Back To Top