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Starting or expanding a business in a rural area comes with unique challenges—limited access to capital, fewer financial institutions, and infrastructure gaps. Yet rural entrepreneurs drive job creation, innovation, and local resilience. That’s why rural business loans are critical to empowering growth in underserved regions.
Running a business often means juggling expenses, payroll, inventory, and growth plans—sometimes with limited cash on hand. When traditional loans aren’t accessible or fast enough, asset-based lending (ABL) can be a powerful solution to free up working capital using the assets you already own.
Winning a government contract can be a game-changer for your business. But fulfilling that contract often requires upfront costs—paying suppliers, hiring staff, buying materials—well before your government client pays you. That’s where government contract financing comes in.
Running a nonprofit takes vision, compassion, and—often—more funding than donations alone can provide. Whether you're facing cash flow gaps, launching a new program, or upgrading your facilities, loans for non-profit organizations can be a powerful tool to sustain and grow your mission.
Access to capital has long been one of the biggest hurdles for women entrepreneurs. Despite running nearly half of all businesses in the U.S., women-owned companies often receive less funding, smaller loans, and fewer investment opportunities. Thankfully, that’s changing—thanks to an increasing number of loans and grants available specifically for women entrepreneurs.
Sustainability isn’t just good for the planet—it’s smart business. Eco-conscious companies are attracting loyal customers, saving on utility costs, and complying with evolving regulations. But implementing green initiatives often comes with upfront expenses. That’s where green business loans come in—offering financing solutions specifically tailored to support environmentally responsible projects.
Access to capital remains one of the biggest challenges for minority entrepreneurs. Fortunately, there are several special loan programs designed to support minority-owned businesses through affordable financing, training, and long-term guidance. Whether you’re launching a startup or scaling a growing company, these loan options are tailored to help you succeed.
Veterans bring leadership, discipline, and resilience to the business world. But like any entrepreneur, access to capital is key to launching, expanding, or stabilizing a company. Fortunately, there are loan options specifically tailored to support veteran-owned businesses. From low-interest SBA programs to nonprofit lenders, veterans have access to unique funding opportunities built with their service and business goals in mind.
Veteran-focused loan programs often include:
Competitive interest rates
Lower fees or waived guarantee charges
Flexible eligibility criteria
Business training and mentorship alongside capital
Streamlined applications for military service members and spouses
These benefits are designed to help veteran entrepreneurs transition successfully from service to self-employment.
SBA 7(a) and SBA Express Loans (with Veteran Incentives)
The SBA doesn’t offer loans directly, but it guarantees a portion of loans made by approved lenders. Veteran-owned businesses can apply for:
SBA 7(a) Loans: Up to $5 million for working capital, real estate, or equipment. Veterans may qualify for reduced guarantee fees.
SBA Express Loans: Faster approvals (within 36 hours), with loans up to $500,000. The SBA guarantees up to 50%.
Veteran-owned businesses also receive priority processing on Express applications.
Previously known as the SBA Veterans Advantage, this program is now folded into SBA 7(a) and Express loans. Key benefits:
Fee waivers for loans under $500,000
Available to veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists, National Guard members, and their spouses or widows
This lowers the total cost of borrowing, making it ideal for startups and small expansions.
This unique SBA disaster loan provides funds to small businesses when an essential employee (often the owner) is called to active duty.
Key details:
Loans up to $2 million
Interest rates around 4%
Terms up to 30 years
Must demonstrate economic injury directly tied to the call-up
It’s a safety net that protects veteran-owned businesses during active service interruptions.
StreetShares is a veteran-run financial platform offering both traditional business loans and grants.
Loans from $2,000 to $250,000
Short-term and working capital options
Competitive rates for veterans with good credit
May include access to the Veteran Business Grant Program, where select businesses receive non-repayable funds
StreetShares is built to serve military-affiliated businesses, often looking at character and mission—not just credit scores.
LiftFund is a nonprofit that offers microloans and training programs to underserved entrepreneurs, including veterans.
Loans from $500 to $500,000
Low interest rates, flexible terms
No prepayment penalties
Business guidance, financial education, and mentoring included
LiftFund operates in select states—check their coverage before applying.
For veteran-owned startups, especially those with high-growth potential, Hivers and Strivers is a unique source of funding.
Angel investing group focused on West Point, ROTC, and military academy grads
Provides capital in exchange for equity (not a loan)
Ideal for tech, health, and service-driven ventures
While not a loan, it’s a valuable option if you’re scaling a high-growth veteran-owned business.
Verify eligibility (DD-214, military ID, or spouse documentation)
Determine funding needs: startup costs, working capital, equipment, etc.
Choose the best loan type (SBA, nonprofit, short-term)
Gather financial documents (business plan, tax returns, credit report)
Apply through approved lenders or SBA partners
Explore additional training or mentorship opportunities
Track usage and ROI of funds to prepare for repayment or refinancing
SBA Office of Veterans Business Development – Support programs, grants, and loan resources
Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs) – Free counseling and loan prep
StreetShares Foundation – Grants and veteran business community
LiftFund Veteran Loans – Microloans and mentorship
Bunker Labs – Entrepreneurial support and funding connections
Veteran-owned businesses are vital to the American economy. With special loan programs, waived fees, and dedicated resources, veteran entrepreneurs can access the capital they need to launch and lead. Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale, there's a funding solution designed with your service—and your success—in mind.
Natural disasters, economic downturns, and unexpected crises can cripple a small business overnight. Whether it’s a hurricane, wildfire, pandemic, or supply chain collapse, recovery takes time—and money. That’s where SBA Disaster Loans come in. These government-backed loans provide affordable, flexible funding to help your business survive and rebuild.
If you're planning to buy a franchise and need a loan to finance it, the Franchise Disclosure Document—or FDD—is one of the most important tools in the process. This legal document outlines critical details about the franchise opportunity and plays a major role in whether lenders approve your loan.
