Securing funding to finance your small business can feel overwhelming, but having a basic understanding of your options and available resources will help with choosing a strategy that fits your business needs. Below is an overview of business loan options and other financing opportunities that may be suitable for your business.

The first step in deciding to apply for a loan is to review and compare available options to find a loan that is best suited for supporting your business needs. SBA loans are government-backed loans with more favorable terms, such as lower interest rates and smaller down payments. Eligibility is based on factors such as income generation, ability to repay the loan, credit history, a sound business plan, where the business operates, and the ability to meet SBA size requirements.

Commercial loans, on the other hand, do not receive government backing and are financed directly by lenders, such as banks or credit unions. In general, commercial loans offer more flexibility and quicker access to financing. Established businesses have a better chance of qualifying due to stricter eligibility requirements, such as a strong credit history, a solid business plan, and a proven history of cash flow. Commercial loans typically have shorter repayment terms, larger down payments, and variable interest rates. Contacting a lender where you have a personal or business banking relationship will be the first step in determining whether a commercial loan is right for your business.

The SBA also licenses and regulates Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs). SBICs leverage SBA guaranteed funds in addition to private financing to invest in small businesses in various sectors and industries. They are restricted from investing in businesses that deal in real estate, gambling, and banking. SBICs provide loans ranging from $250,000 to $10 million with interest rates between 9% and 16%. They also invest in businesses in exchange for ownership in the company, with investments ranging from $100,000 to $5 million.

Debt financing is funding that is borrowed and must be repaid, usually with interest. Common forms of debt financing include loans and lines of credit. While debt financing involves repayment obligations tied to interest, you maintain complete ownership of the business and all future profits. Lenders often require loans to be backed by collateral, which they can take if the business fails to make payments. In some cases, business owners may face legal action for nonpayment. Another consideration is that funding availability often depends on how established a business is. More mature or well-established businesses typically find it easier to access and secure debt financing.

Equity financing is funding given in exchange for partial ownership of the business and future profits generated from the business. Common sources of equity financing include family, friends, business acquaintances, and venture capital (the latter being much more difficult to obtain). A positive aspect of equity financing is that there is no repayment required; however, it involves diluting ownership and future profits and could lead to disagreements between partners on business goals and objectives.

Grants and scholarships are funding options that do not need to be repaid and do not impact business ownership. This type of funding may be offered by government agencies, nonprofits, or foundations, but is often competitive and industry-specific. Beware of “free money” claims, as they as likely scams.

Have additional questions about small business financing? Reach out to NFIB’s Legal Center for help at info@nfib.org.