Guides
Beyond SBA Loans
Alternatives to SBA loans: CDFIs, credit unions, lines of credit, equipment financing, factoring, online lenders and what to avoid.
What Is a CDFI and How Can It Help Your Business?
CDFIs are mission-driven lenders certified by the U.S. Treasury. How they work, who they serve and why they matter after the 2026 SBA rule.
How a Business Line of Credit Works
How business lines of credit work, how they differ from term loans, SBA options like Express and CAPLines, costs, and when a line makes sense.
Equipment Financing for Small Businesses
How equipment loans and leases work, when they beat an SBA loan, costs to compare, and tips for financing trucks, machinery and kitchen equipment.
Merchant Cash Advances: Why to Be Careful
How merchant cash advances work, how to calculate their real cost, the stacking trap, and better alternatives for small businesses.
Invoice Factoring: Get Paid Now for Your Invoices
How invoice factoring works, what it costs, recourse vs non-recourse, and when it beats a loan for trucking, staffing, distribution and B2B businesses.
Online Lender vs Bank: An Honest Comparison
Online business lenders vs banks and SBA loans: speed, cost, requirements and risks, with a simple way to compare the true cost of offers.
Business Credit Cards: When They Make Sense
When a business credit card helps (building credit, short-term expenses, rewards) and when it hurts, plus how it affects your personal credit and SBA application.
Small Business Grants: The Truth
What small business grants really exist, who gets them, how competitive they are, and how to avoid grant scams that target new owners.
Credit Union Business Loans
How credit union business loans work, membership, products, SBA participation, and why credit unions can be a good fit for small and Hispanic-owned businesses.
Crowdfunding for Small Businesses
The four types of crowdfunding (rewards, donation, debt and equity), what each costs, how to run a campaign and when it beats a loan.