Business Funding Programs
Explore common financing options available to businesses and learn how different funding programs work.
SBA Programs
Financing made through participating lenders under U.S. Small Business Administration programs. BusinessLoanPrograms.com is an independent resource and is not the SBA.
SBA 7(a) Loans
The SBA's most widely used program, generally used for working capital, expansion, equipment, and some acquisitions.
Typically used for
- Working capital
- Business expansion
- Equipment purchases
SBA 504 Loans
Long-term financing generally associated with owner-occupied commercial real estate and major fixed assets.
Typically used for
- Purchasing owner-occupied commercial real estate
- Construction or major renovation of an owner-occupied facility
- Long-life machinery and equipment
SBA Microloans
Smaller loan amounts made through nonprofit intermediary lenders, often paired with business assistance.
Typically used for
- Working capital
- Inventory or supplies
- Furniture and fixtures
Traditional Business Financing
Bank and commercial financing structures commonly used by established businesses.
Business Term Loans
A lump sum repaid over a set period, commonly used for defined projects and one-time investments.
Typically used for
- Expansion projects
- Equipment or build-out
- Refinancing
Business Lines of Credit
A revolving limit a business can draw from as needed, often used for short-term or recurring cash flow gaps.
Typically used for
- Seasonal cash flow
- Inventory purchases
- Payroll timing gaps
Equipment Financing
Financing structured around the purchase of business equipment, where the equipment often serves as collateral.
Typically used for
- Vehicles and trucks
- Manufacturing equipment
- Restaurant and kitchen equipment
Commercial Real Estate Loans
Financing for purchasing, refinancing, or improving commercial property used by a business.
Typically used for
- Purchasing a facility
- Refinancing existing property debt
- Renovation and improvements
Alternative Business Financing
Non-bank structures often used when speed, flexibility, or receivables-based funding matter most.
Working Capital Financing
Shorter-term financing used to cover day-to-day operating needs rather than long-term assets.
Typically used for
- Payroll
- Inventory
- Supplier payments
Invoice Financing
Financing tied to outstanding customer invoices, commonly used by businesses that bill other businesses.
Typically used for
- Bridging long customer payment terms
- Funding payroll between receivables
- Growth without waiting on collections
Revenue-Based Financing
Financing repaid as a share of revenue or through fixed periodic payments tied to sales performance.
Typically used for
- Inventory and marketing pushes
- Short-term growth spending
- Bridging seasonal demand
Startup Financing
Options commonly explored by businesses with limited operating history or revenue.
Typically used for
- Initial equipment
- Early inventory
- Launch expenses
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