"Alternative business loan" is an umbrella term for any type of business funding not provided by a bank or government-backed financing program.
It can be difficult for newly opened businesses to secure bank financing. Banks often only provide funding to established businesses that have been open for a long period of time and can show a proven track record of steady profit — something that is difficult for businesses that are just getting started.
For businesses that cannot meet the strict requirements for bank funding, alternative business loans could be the best way to get the working capital they need. Though the exact type of funding will vary, most types of alternative business lending tend to have quick online applications, fast funding and typically higher chances of approval.
Some of the most popular alternative business funding options are listed below.
Private business lenders are a popular alternative funding choice. These web-based companies offer quick online applications and fast funding — sometimes as soon as the next business day — and use different factors than banks for determining funding eligibility.
Also known as crowdlending or P2P lending, peer-to-peer lending is a relatively new kind of alternative, online business funding.
A business in need of funding can sign up with an online peer-to-peer lending company. The P2P company will then directly match the business with a private lender that fits the business's particular needs.
The actual type of loans will depend on the lender the peer-to-peer company matches the business with.
Entrepreneurs often seek out crowdfunding sites to raise the funds they need to complete their goal. Anyone can donate to the campaign, and, depending on how much they donate, they can often receive different perks from the campaign creator.
Campaigns tend to be "all-or-nothing," where failure to reach the goal means the creator doesn't see any of the money. However, some crowdfunding sites offer flexible plans for retaining the funds, no matter the campaign outcome.
If you're looking for funding solutions, The Business Backer can help. We are a dedicated small business financier, and we've helped thousands of small businesses get the working capital they need over the past 10 years.
The Business Backer understands that every business is unique, and we've tailored our process to provide as many custom financing options as possible. You'll be assigned to one of our Funding Advisors, who will work with you to find the funding option that fits your specific need.