Starting a small business usually requires capital. More often than not, startup loans and other forms of borrowing are needed.
Having poor credit makes it harder to borrow money. That’s the point. Unfortunately, that means it’s more challenging to start a business.
While launching a startup without sufficient credit is not easy, there are ways to get it done. The following are five worth giving a try:
Build credit
The best way to stop poor credit from negatively affecting your life is to make it better. If the problem is a lack of history, use a credit starter loan if you have poor credit and live in Missouri and other states where these loans are available. Another option is to start responsibly using credit cards every month. This is done using credit for essential purchases, like groceries and gas, then paying the bill in full every month. You’re taking a small extra step in your everyday routine but building credit in the process. Once your credit history and score is where it needs to be, go forward with your small business dreams.
Sell assets
Not everyone has a family farm they can sell to get the money to start a business. However, many people may have various assets they can sell for cash fast. This money can be used to start a business. It’s essential to be sensible when applying this approach; don’t compromise the wellbeing of yourself and your family by selling everything beneath your feet and above your head. Keep it limited to possessions and property you can live without.
Find reasonable lenders
The truth is many lending institutions will agree to work with aspiring business owners even if they have less than perfect credit. The interest rates tend to be high, and the terms are strict, but these loans provide those with poor credit the means to start their own business. It might be the only option available, so make it count.
Find a co-signer or business partner
Another way for people with poor credit to get startup capital is to seek a co-signer or business partner. In the case of a co-signer, someone with better credit shares responsibility for repaying the loan, which gives lenders peace of mind. A business partner is a bit different. The typical arrangement involves someone buying a stake in the enterprise in exchange for the investment capital. That means a large percentage of the business profits go to the partner. It’s a popular choice, but one that’s not for everyone. What’s more, not every prospective business partner will be interested in getting involved in your startup.
Save up
Lastly, those without the credit to be approved for business loans can put their entrepreneurial dreams on hold for a few years while they save the cash to get started. This option has the added benefit of giving you time to improve your credit too. By the time you’re ready to commit to your business dream, you’ll be doubly prepared to finance the operation.
It’s hard to start a business with less than perfect credit. However, it’s not impossible. More times than not, it comes down to finding alternative ways of securing startup capital. Ultimately, the solution will always be the same: better credit means better access to business loans.
