Small Business Loans for Women
Approximately 42% of all businesses in the United States are owned by women, accounting for about 13 million firms employing more than 9.4 million workers. However, funding these businesses can be challenging given the fact that there is inequity in funding for women and men-owned businesses.
Funding a business shouldn’t be complicated, though. But if you’re a woman business owner, you probably need to know that getting the money you need might be harder than expected. Securing business financing for women-owned businesses can be an uphill climb.
Despite all that, finding small business loans for women is possible. Understanding the various types of business loans available for women-owned companies can make it easier to get the money necessary to run and grow your small business.
Types of Small Business Loans for Women
Need some help to get your small business off the ground? In that case, small business loans for women can help you start your business and grow it into a thriving enterprise. The most popular small business loans for women include the following:
The Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans
SBA loans are a great resource for female entrepreneurs seeking to finance their businesses. These loans are offered through U.S. SBA-approved financial institutions, such as banks and online lenders.
As a borrower, you provide SBA with details about your business, which the SBA uses to connect you with the most appropriate lender for your business. Depending on the loan type, you can get any amount between $30,000 and $5 million. The interest rates vary based on the type of loan and lender.
Merchant Cash Advances (MCA)
If you have bad credit and looking for small business loans for women with bad credit, you might want to consider merchant cash advances. This type of financing lets you receive a large amount of cash in exchange for a part of your future sales receipts. This lump sum will be paid through the business’s sales to the MCA provider until the full amount plus associated fees are paid.
Online Loans
Online loans are another good choice for small business loans for women with bad credit. If you have a bad credit score or have been operating for less than two years, an online loan could work well for you. Most alternative online lenders offer several products, including lines of credit, invoice factoring, and term loans. They specialize in quick and convenient funding and usually have lenient qualification requirements than traditional banks.
Asset-Based Financing
Asset-based financing lets women-owned businesses borrow money that is secured by high-valued collateral, such as inventory, machinery and equipment, accounts receivables, and real estate. Since this type of lending has less risk to the lender, the lending eligibility requirements are less stringent. The loan rates are also very competitive, making it an excellent choice for women entrepreneurs with bad credit.
What to Consider When Choosing a Small Business Loan for Women
- Eligibility requirements: Lenders have different minimum qualification requirements. Many traditional loan options require a credit score of 680 or higher. Your lender may also check your credit score if your small business has been running for at least six months.
- Lender reputation: You should check the lender’s reputation to ensure you’re working with a legit company. Search online for their website and read reviews by other customers to identify any issues. For credit unions, local banks, or grant programs, consult with other entrepreneurs and previous grant receivers to review the reputation of each option.
- Maximum loan amounts and rates: You may also want to consider the maximum loan amount and rates the lender offers. Small business financing amounts and rates vary from one lender to another, and the amount you borrow will depend on your business needs. Similarly, lenders offer varying APRs ranging between 5% and 99%, with the best rates retained for the most creditworthy borrowers.
- Additional costs: Some lenders may charge extra costs, such as origination fees, to cater to processing and underwriting costs. Others may include application fees, draw fees, prepayment penalties, and other hidden fees. Ensure you’re aware of all the costs associated with your loan before submitting your application.
How to Apply for Small Business Loans for Women
Depending on your choice, you may need to visit a local credit union or bank to apply in person. However, online small business loans for women are usually faster, more convenient, and more flexible than traditional options. The requirements for small business loans for women include the following:
- Business Tax ID number
- Financial documentation (profit & loss statements, income statements, and balance sheets)
- Paper bank statements
- Social Security number
Get the Best Small Business Loans for Women with Probizcap.com
ProBizCap.com is a premier loan broker providing small business loans for women. Whether you want regular loans or small business loans for women with bad credit, we can help. Apply now or contact us for further details.
