BDC Hamburger Icon

Menu

Close
BDC Logo
Search Icon
Search Icon

Business Funding

Launching and growing a business takes capital, and there are a lot of places to find it. Determining which source of funding is right for your business can be a challenge. Fortunately we’ve made it easy to learn about your financing options and identify which ones will set your business up for long-term success.

Latest: Advice, Tips and Resources

Article
Need a Loan? Lending Trends That Affect Your Chances of Getting Funds
By Jennifer Dublino | May 01, 2024

From tighter lending criteria to the rise of payment processors, many changes are underway in small business lending.

Article
Types of Fast Business Loans
By Max Freedman | May 01, 2024

Find out which fast lending methods you can choose from when you need a business loan and what you need in order to apply.

Article
Capital vs. Operating Grants: Which Does Your Business Need?
By Donna Fuscaldo | May 01, 2024

Capital and operating grants are two different ways to fund your business. Here's what you need to know before applying for a business grant.

Article
Is a Line of Credit or a Term Loan Better For Your Business?
By Donna Fuscaldo | April 23, 2024

You need to know which type of loan is best for your small business's situation. Learn the difference between term loans and lines of credit.

Article
Financing Your Retail Store
By Julie Thompson | April 15, 2024

Most entrepreneurs turn to small business loans when seeking startup cash, but there are other ways to raise working capital for a store. Learn more here.

Article
Do You Understand the Fine Print of Your Loan Agreement?
By Siri Hedreen | April 15, 2024

Important information is tucked away in the fine print of a loan agreement. Learn what to look for and what you're agreeing to before you sign it.

Article
What to Do If You Can’t Get a Business Loan
By Donna Fuscaldo | April 11, 2024

Here's what to do if you can't get a business loan, and why being turned away isn't the end of the world.

Article
Things to Consider Before Presenting Your Idea to Investors
By Jennifer Dublino | April 10, 2024

Investor presentations require careful planning and organization. Learn what to consider before presenting an idea to investors and signs you're not ready.

Article
The SBSS Score Explained: What It Is and Why It Matters When Applying for a Loan
By Jamie Johnson | March 25, 2024

Your SBSS score matters when you're applying for a small business loan. Here's what you need to know.

Article
What Is a Hard Money Loan?
By Simone Johnson | March 06, 2024

Hard money loans make sense for businesses that need fast capital or can't access other financing, but a payback plan is key for this type of lending.

Article
Business Loan Terms You Should Know
By Simone Johnson | March 06, 2024

When seeking a business loan for your small business, it's important to understand the terms banks use. Learn the most important business loan terms.

Article
Top Small Business Grants
By Simone Johnson | March 06, 2024

Small business grants are basically free money from federal, state or privately funded programs. Learn about small business grants and how to apply.

Article
The Risks Associated With a Personal Guarantee
By Jennifer Post | February 12, 2024

Many small business loans require the business owner to sign a personal guarantee. Learn about the risks of personally guaranteeing a loan.

Article
What Is a High-Risk Business Loan and What Industries Can It Help?
By Simone Johnson | February 08, 2024

If your company is considered too risky by traditional lenders, a high-risk business loan might offer financing options.

Article
How to Calculate Loan Payments
By Mike Berner | February 01, 2024

When considering accepting a business loan, it's important to develop a repayment plan. Learn about the calculation formula, amortization and more.

Article
How to Know an Investor Is Offering You a Good Deal
By Adam Uzialko | January 30, 2024

Before you sell equity, make sure the capital is well worth it. Here's how to spot a good investment deal.

Article
What SMBs Need to Know When Choosing a Small Business Loan
By Mike Berner | January 03, 2024

Read what experts say about obtaining funding for a small business.

Article
The Best Business Grants for Women
By Kiely Kuligowski | January 03, 2024

Women-run businesses make up nearly half of all businesses, yet they're far behind in business funding. Learn about grants for women entrepreneurs to help close the gap.

Article
What’s the Difference Between a Grant and a Business Loan?
By Skye Schooley | January 03, 2024

Learn whether a grant or loan is better for your business, the different types of each, how to choose between them and the best loan providers.

Article
Pros and Cons of Merchant Cash Advance Loans
By Max Freedman | December 12, 2023

Considering a merchant cash advance for your business? Before accepting one, learn the pros and cons.

Article
How a Cash Advance Works
By Donna Fuscaldo | November 10, 2023

Cash advances are short-term loans that don't need an application or credit check, but they aren't always a good option. Learn cash advance pros and cons.

Founder vs. Investor book cover
Article
Founder vs. Investor: A Playbook for Getting Capital and Not Losing Your Company
By Dawn Allcot | October 03, 2023

A Q&A with authors Elizabeth Joy Zalman and Jerry Neumann

Article
Private Equity vs. Venture Capital: What’s the Difference?
By Donna Fuscaldo | April 07, 2023

Businesses can get a capital infusion via private equity and venture capital funding. Learn the differences between the two to choose the right option.

Article
How to Find and Attract Business Investors
By Jennifer Dublino | March 22, 2023

Startups often turn to investors to help grow their businesses. Learn how to find a business investor and what to look for.