By Fernando Berrocal

‍

You have a great business idea, but you don't have the necessary financial resources to put it into action. Nowadays, obtaining funding is a challenging process for most entrepreneurs due to the vast competition that they face. Finding an investor is never a straightforward process, and most entrepreneurs are concerned in their early stages due to a lack of finances. That's when they start thinking about “Startup Loans” as a feasible funding alternative to face this challenge.

‍

"Many startups looking to expand have one thing in common: they want additional funding to get started or expand their operations. Obtaining startup business financing is a decision that should not be treated lightly. Knowing the benefits and drawbacks is the best place to start," says Max Funding's Shane Perry.

Startup business loans are generally advantageous for entrepreneurs; however, sometimes they do have certain disadvantages. Here's a deeper look at the benefits and drawbacks of startup business loans so you can decide whether or not they're right for your business.

The Advantages of Getting a Startup Loan: Banks and loan providers will look at your business plan, which will describe how you expect to spend the funding you're looking for, but they won't have any say in how your organization runs or how you manage your money.  Lenders are not entitled to any of your earnings. The repayment of the debt is their primary concern.

‍

Many other sources of funding (such as credit cards and merchant banks) offer higher interest rates than beginning business loans, albeit the payback time varies depending on the provider.  Startup business loans can give considerable sums of money depending on the needs of your business. The funds are available right away, which in turn helps you build a good credit score (which helps you get future loans) and develops a good financial profile for your business right away.

The Drawbacks of Getting a Startup Loan: Many commercial banks and lenders have strict requirements for startup business loans. As a result, they demand more information, including a comprehensive overview of your business's future structure, basic business processes, information about other interested parties, cost and profit predictions, as well as a comprehensive evaluation process. Lenders also want to know that you have a good credit score and are reliable since this increases the likelihood of you repaying the loan.

‍

Interest rates imposed by commercial lenders are influenced mainly by national policy and market fluctuations. Rates may fluctuate, especially in the early phases, and earnings may be unable to keep up. Keep in mind that the first interest rates on startup business loans are frequently high.

Financial institutions typically require a personal asset (such as a stock portfolio or real estate) as collateral before lending you money. If your business collapses and you are unable to repay your loan to your lenders, they may be able to recover their debt by liquidating the collateral you provided. A bank loan is the bank's private property. As a result, a beginning business loan secured from a bank appears on the liabilities side of the balance sheet. Therefore, it affects the value of your business.

The Bottomline: In conclusion, before applying for a startup business loan, look into every detail carefully and weigh out the benefits and disadvantages. Keep in mind that each source of funding has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Based on your financial situation, business needs, and long-term goals, make an informed decision.

Ready to bring your startup to the next level? Apply to MassLight’s next batch. MassLight supplies capital and a dedicated tech team. We take equity in return. Have questions? Refer to our FAQ page.

‍

‍

‍