PROFITTHEORY

Startup funding

Startup Business Loans: Options Before You Launch

Most traditional lenders want two or more years of operating history, so a new LLC usually has limited loan options. Owner equity, SBA microloans, equipment financing and personal-credit-based products are more common starting points.

Estimates only. Results vary. No guarantee of approval, rates or savings.

Profit Theory is not a lender. Providers make all funding decisions; approval is never guaranteed.

Options, roughly in order of accessibility

  • Your own savings and friends-and-family equity.
  • Equipment financing, where the equipment secures the loan.
  • SBA microloans and community lenders (CDFIs).
  • SBA 7(a) for experienced operators with a strong plan and equity.
  • Business credit cards — useful, but expensive if balances carry.

Build the budget before you borrow

Underfunding is one of the most common startup mistakes. Use the planner below to see how long your cash lasts, then plan for a slower ramp than you expect.

Run the numbers

Blue = you enterGreen = calculatedGray = assumptionAmber/red = check this
$

Build-out, equipment, deposits, licenses, opening inventory.

$

Be conservative for the first 6 months.

$

Rent, payroll, software, insurance, owner draw.

$

Runway

7.5 months

Cash after launch

$45,000

Monthly net

-$6,000.00

6–12 months

Planning estimate only. Most lenders look for operating history; new businesses often rely on owner equity first.

Estimates only. Results vary. No guarantee of approval, rates or savings.

Talk with a financing specialist

Common questions

Can I get a business loan for a new LLC with no revenue?

It's difficult. Lenders generally rely on your personal credit, experience and collateral. Being realistic up front saves time and hard credit inquiries.

Will you introduce me to a lender anyway?

Only if an approved provider is a reasonable fit. If not, we'll say so and point you to planning resources instead.