Best Small Business Loans
With so many lenders to choose from, how do you pick the best option for your small business? Check out our guide.
Many resources are available for new and seasoned small business owners, but it can take time to navigate. Funding inequality and wealth gaps in the U.S. also impact how entrepreneurs access these resources. Acknowledging this and providing tools for all small business owners to succeed is a small way I can help others.
— Emily Maracle
About the author
Emily Maracle is a former small business loans editor for Bankrate.com. She is passionate about creating high-quality content to help educate and make complex financial topics accessible to all readers, especially those looking to start or grow a business.
Emily holds a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of British Columbia. Previously, she worked as an editor and writer in the insurance and real estate industries, specializing in scaling content and businesses while broadening her knowledge in fintech.
Based in New York, Emily enjoys getting outside with her two dogs, reading, living sustainably and all things coffee.
Emily wants you to know
Getting a loan can be a long and complicated process. From prequalifying to meeting lender requirements and applying, the process can take weeks to months. Starting a business is a huge undertaking. I aim to empower others to make educated financial decisions and reduce the stress of taking out a loan — whether it’s their first or fifth. I'm also passionate about helping and advocating for minority business owners and underserved communities. Everyone deserves equal access to funding, whether that's personally or for their small business.
Many resources are available for new and seasoned small business owners, but it can take time to navigate. Funding inequality and wealth gaps in the U.S. also impact how entrepreneurs access these resources. Acknowledging this and providing tools for all small business owners to succeed is a small way I can help others.
— Emily Maracle
With so many lenders to choose from, how do you pick the best option for your small business? Check out our guide.
Both Funding Circle and Wells Fargo start with low interest rates, but they serve different borrowers. Learn their differences.
Loans without collateral can be quick but more expensive than secured loans.
Business lines of credit provide flexible funding to aid cash flow and capital. Find our top picks here.
SBG Funding expands access to capital for businesses with established revenue that need a moderate to large amount of funding.
SBA small business loans are issued by private lenders like banks, CDFIs and nonprofit community lenders. But they’re backed by the federal government and can provide low-interest loans and lines of credit to many types of small business owners.
A business debt schedule can help you manage your long-term business debts.
A DUNS number isn’t required for businesses, but it is essential for tracking business credit and applying for certain funding.
It can be easier for an entrepreneur to get, but it means hocking the home for your enterprise.
Follow the withdrawal rules for 529 plans scrupulously and save those receipts.