For all businesses, adequate money is vital in keeping operations afloat and obtaining many opportunities for upscaling and growth. Many businesses partner with banking institutions and lenders to fund their operations, especially startups and small-scale ones where a financial lifeline in the form of solid cash flow is vital.
Let’s dive into some business loans you can inquire about and when a business loan is the best course of action to take. Read more below and see how to maximize these opportunities to drive your business performance.
Term or Unsecured Loans
Unsecured or term loans are standard for small business owners or entrepreneurs looking for a source of running capital. It’s a simple agreement generally providing a lump sum of cash under fixed terms and payment clauses. Mostly, you can get them at your nearest bank or online lending platforms.
If you’re starting a business, these online unsecured loans are a good option, as they generally have loose eligibility requirements and don’t require collateral. However, your initial loan offerings are pretty low because of this. But if you’re interested, you can repeatedly take out a loan and pay on time to build credibility and gain access to more extensive loan options.
SBA Loans
SBA loans are offered by Small Business Administration groups or a part of a bank’s business loan program. One feature of this loan is they have long-term repayment timelines and hefty loanable amounts, perfect for businesses looking for rapid expansion and refinancing debts.
But as a word of caution, SBA loans have a rigorous and lengthy application process and may evaluate certain aspects of your business and financial capabilities. But should you get into one, typical loanable amounts may range from $15,000 to a million, with a five-year repayment agreement.
Overall, SBA loans work best for businesses looking for rapid expansion with a strong creditworthiness that can wait a long time for funding. Note that this is not recommended for businesses starting or needing a quick lump sum.
Business Line Of Credit
A line of credit works like a personal credit card but is made for businesses and is an as-needed money source. Think of this as a credit card but for businesses. The issuing bank approves you with a starting credit limit that works its way up the more you use it and pay responsibly.
However, they have draw periods, which may last after one to two years. After that, the repayment period begins. For businesses who are looking for a “Credit Card” type of funding, this option is the best for you.
When to Acquire a Loan
Now that you have the gist of some effective financing options for your business let’s go over the best times to get a loan. Remember that timing works wonders in business. With that in mind, here are three ways to maximize your future loans as best as possible.
1. If You Plan to Expand Operations
If you handle a traditional business model (brick-and-mortar), dealing with expansion may be expensive for scaling up and opening more revenue channels. In that case, seeking a loan may be a good action.
Banks and business lenders may be more keen to offer outstanding loans if they see your business is profitable and with good revenue performance. They might just say yes to your application if you can provide a detailed cash flow, positive forecasting numbers, and a reasonable basis for expansion. Long-term loans may also use collateral as company assets as part of the agreement.
2. To Replace and Upgrade Equipment
Finding funding for replacements, maintenance, and upgrades is challenging for businesses dealing with machinery and industrial equipment. Small business loans may be favorable for your case, especially for machines doing critical tasks in production.
There are many ways you can go about this. One is to secure some term loans if the funds needed are significant but insufficient to constitute collateral. On the other hand, banking or SBA loans are also helpful if you don’t mind the long-term repayment time frame.
3. To Boost Inventory
Inventory is critical in gaining revenue if you run a consumer product-based business. There may be times when you need more inventory or place bulk orders for peak season periods. In either case, short-term loans are the best to prepare for high demand.
We recommend checking out unsecured or quick cash loans you can repay in a few months or a year. Given that your sales can cover up the debt and still gain significant amounts of profit.
Final Thoughts
Getting a loan is perfect for upscaling businesses and getting opportunities that you can’t get without external funding. You may fare well on the above-mentioned loans depending on your business type and goals.
That said, taking out a loan on specific conditions is also imperative. Thus, analyze your long-term goals and reevaluate your financial capabilities to maximize your funding opportunities.
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