Funding Resources

There are options available other than a conventional business loan. Many small business lending programs include assistance with business development in addition to loans.

Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Locator

CDFIs are private financial institutions that are 100% dedicated to delivering responsible, affordable lending to help low-income, low-wealth, and other disadvantaged people and communities join the economic mainstream. Use Opportunity Finance Network’s CDFI Locator to find CDFIs in your area.

Peer-to-Peer Lending

Prosper

Prosper is a leading online destination for borrowing money and investing in loans. Prosper’s auction model provides an open and transparent way to get a personal loan or invest in loans on terms that can be favorable to everyone involved in the transaction.

Kiva Micro-Lending for Entrepreneurs

Kiva, an online micro-lending service that has facilitated low-interest loans to small businesses and entrepreneurs in developing countries since 2005, offers its service to low-income entrepreneurs in the United States as well.

Lending Club

Lending Club is a social lending network that brings together investors and creditworthy borrowers to provide personal and small business loans at rates that are reported to be generally better than those offered by traditional banks.