Looking for a business line of credit for your startup without revenue? Discover flexible funding options designed to support early-stage businesses with no established income. Learn how to qualify, secure financing, and grow your startup even without revenue streams. Explore ways to access the capital you need to succeed today!
A business line of credit for startups without revenue can be a valuable financing option for new entrepreneurs seeking flexibility. Although many lenders prefer established businesses, some offer lines of credit specifically designed for startups, even if they lack significant revenue.
These lines of credit allow startups to borrow funds as needed, charging interest only on the amount used. Approval criteria may include personal credit scores, business plans, and the potential for future revenue rather than current earnings.
Securing a line of credit can help cover operational costs, manage cash flow, and invest in growth opportunities. It’s important for startups to shop around and compare lenders to find the best terms and conditions that suit their unique situation.
what is business line of credit?
A business line of credit functions similarly to a credit card, providing access to a set amount of funds. You can withdraw as needed and pay interest only on the amount used, not the total available. Some lines of credit have a fixed expiration, while others are revolving, allowing ongoing access to funds.
How does a business line of credit work?
When you secure a business line of credit, you’re given a credit limit to borrow from as needed, rather than receiving the full amount upfront like a traditional loan. This period of withdrawing funds is called the draw period.
Unlike a standard business loan, you only pay interest on the amount you borrow, not the entire credit limit. The draw period usually lasts 12 to 24 months, but can extend up to five years. Afterward, the repayment period begins, and you can no longer withdraw funds. The outstanding balance
Business line of credit requirements
To qualify for a business line of credit, the following requirements are typically needed:
Business History
Lenders often prefer businesses that have been operational for at least 6 months to 2 years.
Revenue
A minimum annual revenue or consistent cash flow may be required, depending on the lender.
Credit Score
A good personal or business credit score, generally 600 or higher, is important.
Collateral
Some lines of credit may require collateral, such as inventory, equipment, or accounts receivable, especially for higher limits.
Financial Documents
Lenders may ask for business financial statements, tax returns, and bank account details.
Business Plan
A clear business plan and use of funds may be required to demonstrate how the credit will support business growth.
Meeting these requirements improves the chances of approval and access to better terms. and interest must be repaid by a set date, typically ranging from six months to five years.
Business line of credit rates
Current business line of credit rates
As with any type of financing, terms and interest rates for business lines of credit can differ between lenders and fluctuate with market conditions. Below are the latest interest rates from some of the most popular business line of credit providers.
Average Business line of credit rates 2024
Lender | Line of credit starting rates |
Bank of America | 9.50% APR |
Fundible | 1.00% monthly rate (average) |
SMB Compass | 7.99% APR |
Wells Fargo | 10.25% APR |
Lendio | 8.00% to 60.00% APR |
Bluevine | 7.80% simple interest |
TD Bank | 9.24% APR |
Fundbox | 4.66% or 8.99% weekly fee |
OnDeck | 55.90% APR (average) |
Backd | 30.00% APR |
Unsecured business line of credit for new business
An unsecured business line of credit for a new business provides flexible financing without requiring collateral. This type of credit allows startups to borrow funds as needed, up to a set limit, with interest charged only on the amount used. Unlike secured credit, no assets are required, making it easier for new businesses to access funds. Approval is typically based on personal or business credit scores and financial history. This option can be ideal for managing cash flow, covering operating expenses, or funding growth without risking business assets.
Small business line of credit
A small business line of credit offers flexible financing, allowing businesses to borrow up to a set limit as needed. Unlike a traditional loan, interest is only charged on the amount used, not the full credit limit. This option is ideal for managing cash flow, covering short-term expenses, or funding growth. Businesses can draw from the line of credit multiple times, making it a convenient solution for fluctuating financial needs. Approval depends on factors like credit score, revenue, and business history, and it can be either secured or unsecured.
A small business line of credit is more similar to a small business credit card than a traditional loan. Like an unsecured business loan, it provides access to funds for any business expense. However, unlike a loan, there’s no lump-sum disbursement at the start that requires fixed monthly payments.
This type of credit undergoes a credit review and is typically renewed annually. It operates as a revolving line, much like a credit card: interest begins to accrue once you draw funds, and as you pay down your balance, the amount repaid (excluding interest) becomes available to borrow again. The lender will also establish a borrowing limit.