How to Increase Your Chances of Securing a Business Loan

Securing a business loan can be challenging, especially if this is your first experience with the world of small business. Don’t go into the process unprepared. Remember to have a detailed business plan, save a sufficient down payment, and use any free resources available to heighten your chances of getting approved for your small business loan.

Have a Detailed Business Plan

Creating a detailed business plan means conducting the necessary research to be thoroughly informed. For example, before you apply for an SBA 7a  small business loan, check into the eligibility requirements to see if you qualify.

While you check into the eligibility requirements of a variety of small business loans, be sure that your proposal is up to the task. Polish your business plan until it sounds and looks professional. Back up your target market analysis with credible sources. For the utmost accuracy in your presentation, have an industry expert predict sales projections. Make sure that these projections make sense in alignment with both the current trends and anticipated trends among relevant consumers.

A strong business plan for a loan application will include the following elements:

1. Cover Page and Table of Contents
2. Executive Summary
3. Company Description
4. Market Plan and Analysis
5. Organization and Management
6. Service or Product
7. Marketing and Sales
8. Financing Analysis
9. Business Funding Request
10. Appendix

Not everyone feels confident writing a business plan themselves, especially if it’s needed to secure a bank loan, getting your business plan right does require quite a bit of work and although this process can be expensive, it’s recommended that you look into a professional business plan consultation.

A business plan is a formal written document containing the goals of a business, the methods for attaining those goals, and the time frame for the achievement of the goals. It also describes the nature of the business, background information on the organization, the organization’s financial projections, and the strategies it intends to implement to achieve the stated targets. In its entirety, this document serves as a roadmap that provides direction to the business.

Save a Bigger Down Payment

People who have relocated from another country tend to face the greatest hurdles due to their lack of an established financial reputation. Immigrants often run into challenges with securing a business loan because of their limited credit history in the country where they settle.

Whether you are an immigrant or not, try to save a larger down payment. This will automatically reduce the amount of money you are requesting in the form of a loan. It also demonstrates your willingness to risk your own capital. This puts the lender more at ease and helps convince them of your ability to repay the debt. Consequently, you’ll have a better chance of receiving approval.

Use Free Resources

Using free resources such as SBA and SCORE will prepare you for your business loan presentation. Speak with actual experts who know what the loan officers expect of you. Think of these resources as your study guides for the final exam that is your business loan presentation.

The Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) connect you with business professionals free of charge. There’s a branch of the Small Business Administration in each state. You can also find online learning and workshops for a variety of small business subjects. SCORE connects you with a viable network of experienced mentors.

Securing a business loan: Final thoughts

Financing is vital to get the ball rolling for your enterprise, and you’ll want to do all you can to increase your chances of being approved for a small business loan. Keep these suggestions in mind to improve your odds of success.

If you’re looking to get small business financing for your business, apply now for a loan!

Loan Resources

Business Term Loan, SBA loan, Small Business Loan