Startup financing is different from funding an established business. Many lenders look for operating history, consistent revenue, and documented cash flow—so “startup business loans” often depend on the founder’s profile, the business model, available collateral, and the strength of the documentation package. The right strategy is typically a mix of program selection and readiness.
A startup is generally a newer business with limited operating history—often under 2 years, though definitions vary. Because time in business and cash flow history can be limited, underwriting may rely more heavily on:
Owner credit and experience
Business plan and projections
Early revenue or signed agreements
Collateral or reserves
Industry risk
There is no single “startup loan” product. Approval pathways vary based on your business stage and documentation strength.