Microloans for Startups: Pros, Cons, and Best Providers

Microloans are small-scale business loans designed to help new and small businesses get started or grow. In the United States, the SBA microloan program and various nonprofit lenders offer these loans – often up to $50,000.

Such microloans for startups can provide crucial capital when traditional bank loans aren’t accessible to young companies. They are often easier to qualify for and may come with lower interest rates and business support services.

However, microloans also have limits (usually small loan amounts) and specific requirements. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain what microloans for startups are, outline their advantages and drawbacks, detail typical eligibility requirements, and highlight some of the best U.S. microloan programs and lenders.

By the end, you’ll know whether a microloan or micro business loan for startups is right for your company, and how to pursue one if it is.

What Are Microloans for Startups?

A microloan (or micro business loan) is a small loan typically under $50,000 that helps entrepreneurs and small businesses obtain financing. In the U.S., the SBA’s Microloan Program provides funding up to $50,000, with an average loan around $13,000.

Many nonprofit microlenders also make similar or even larger microloans. These loans can be used for most business purposes, such as:

Working capital (day-to-day expenses)
Inventory or supplies
Furniture, fixtures, machinery, or equipment

Microloan proceeds are restricted from certain uses – for example, they generally cannot be used to pay existing business debts or to purchase real estate.

Because of their small size, microloans are meant for modest capital needs (e.g. buying equipment for a workshop, funding a pilot run of products, or covering initial operating expenses).

Microloans for startups are usually offered by community-based intermediaries and nonprofit organizations, often with support from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

For example, the SBA provides funds to “intermediary lenders” – nonprofit community organizations – which in turn lend to new and growing businesses.

These microlenders often target entrepreneurs who are underserved by traditional finance, such as women, minorities, veterans, or people in low-income areas.

As a result, microloan programs tend to have flexible eligibility requirements that can accommodate startups with limited credit history or time in business. They may also bundle business training and mentoring with the loan to help entrepreneurs succeed.

In summary, a microloan (or micro business loan) for a startup is simply a small loan (usually ≤$50K) aimed at helping a young or small company purchase essential assets or cover early expenses.

These loans often come from specialized lenders with more lenient criteria than banks, but they cap at relatively low amounts.

Pros of Microloans for Startups

Microloans offer several distinct advantages for new business owners. Key benefits include:

Easier access and flexible eligibility. Many microloan programs have lenient credit requirements and may consider factors beyond credit score or time in business.

Nonprofit microlenders often make loans to startups or businesses with minimal revenue. For example, NerdWallet notes that SBA microloans are “administered by nonprofit community lenders and are typically easier to qualify for than larger-dollar loans”.

LendingTree similarly finds microloans have “lenient eligibility requirements,” often serving minority or women-owned businesses. This means a new entrepreneur with thin credit may still obtain funding.
Targeted support for underserved groups. A hallmark of microloan programs is focusing on minorities, women, veterans, and other underserved entrepreneurs. Many nonprofit microlenders explicitly prioritize these groups.

For example, Grameen America offers microloans specifically to low-income women entrepreneurs, while others (like LiftFund and Ascendus) target minority-owned startups.

By design, these programs help level the playing field for entrepreneurs who might not meet strict bank criteria.
Small, appropriate loan sizes. Because microloans are capped at relatively low amounts (usually ≤$50K), they are well-suited for the modest needs of startups.

If you need to buy a few machines, stock initial inventory, or hire a couple of employees, a $5,000–$50,000 loan might fit the bill exactly. Borrowing this scale avoids taking on excessive debt beyond your business’s needs.
Support and training. Many microloan providers also offer business coaching, mentoring or training as part of the loan package.

For instance, SBA intermediaries and community lenders typically “provide business training and educational resources” to borrowers.

This non-financial assistance can help a startup build skills in marketing, finance, or management. If you’re a new entrepreneur, this added guidance can be as valuable as the loan capital.
Competitive interest rates. Microloan interest rates can be quite reasonable, especially compared to alternatives like credit cards or merchant cash advances. SBA microloans, for example, typically carry interest rates between 8% and 13%.

According to LegalZoom, SBA microloans “generally have low interest rates” and favorable terms.

Nonprofit lenders like Accion Opportunity Fund may charge higher rates (often up to ~18%), but still usually less than many short-term loans. So, if you qualify, microloans can provide affordable financing.
Build business credit. Taking and repaying a microloan can help establish or improve your business credit history. Some programs (e.g. Grameen America) even report to credit bureaus.

By successfully managing a microloan, a startup can strengthen its financial track record, making it easier to qualify for larger loans later.

Overall, the pros of microloans include greater accessibility for startups, support for underserved entrepreneurs, appropriate loan sizes, helpful training, and competitive rates.

These features make microloans attractive for many new businesses, especially when traditional bank loans aren’t an option.

Cons of Microloans for Startups

While microloans have clear benefits, there are important limitations and drawbacks to consider:

Limited loan amounts. By definition, microloans are small. In the U.S., SBA microloans cap at $50,000, and many nonprofit lenders focus on much smaller sums (often $5,000–$20,000).

If your startup needs more capital than that—for example, to open a large facility or buy expensive real estate—a microloan alone won’t suffice. As NerdWallet notes, “Funding may not be sufficient for all borrowers” with microloans.
Collateral and personal guarantee requirements. Even though eligibility is flexible, most microloans still require some security. The SBA notes that most intermediaries ask for collateral and a personal guarantee from the owner.

That means you may have to pledge personal or business assets to secure the loan. If your startup has little collateral or you prefer not to personally guarantee debt, this can be a hurdle.
Shorter repayment terms. Microloans typically have shorter terms than standard business loans. SBA microloans have a maximum repayment term of 6–7 years, whereas larger SBA 7(a) loans can go up to 10–25 years.

Shorter terms mean higher monthly payments for the same loan amount. And some peer lenders (like Kiva or Grameen) often require even faster payback. This can strain a young business’s cash flow if payments are too aggressive.
Potentially higher interest (for some lenders). While SBA-backed microloans are fairly cheap, private microlenders may charge higher rates. For example, the Grameen America program charges 15%–18% APR, and some CDFI lenders may go into the high teens.

These rates can exceed those of larger bank loans. LegalZoom warns that microloans may “come with inflated interest,” though still typically less than credit cards. In short, not all microloans have low rates — you should compare carefully.
Restricted uses of funds. Microloan funds come with spending restrictions. As noted above, they generally cannot be used to refinance existing debt or to purchase real estate. This limits flexibility: if you need capital for debt consolidation or buying a storefront, you’ll need a different loan.
Regional availability. Many microloan lenders serve specific geographic regions or communities. According to NerdWallet, “options may be limited by your location” because many microlenders serve only their local or regional areas.

If you live outside a program’s service area, you may not qualify. This contrasts with online lenders, which usually have nationwide reach.
Longer approval process. The application and approval process for microloans can be slower and more involved than some online loans. Nonprofit intermediaries often require a thorough business plan, financial statements, and possibly participation in training classes.

LegalZoom notes that the SBA microloan process can be lengthy, involving a longer enrollment period. In practice, it can take several weeks or months to get funded, which may not suit urgent cash needs.
Not a quick or guaranteed fix. Microloans are not “instant cash.” They require planning and documentation. There is no guarantee of approval, especially if your business plan or credit profile is weak.

In summary, cons of microloans include small maximum amounts, collateral requirements, shorter terms, use restrictions, regional limitations, and potentially slower funding. Startups should weigh these against the benefits. If you need more money or faster funding, or if you cannot satisfy collateral requirements, another funding source might be better.

Microloan Eligibility and Application

Each microloan program has its own eligibility criteria, but several common themes emerge:

Business qualification. Typically, the borrower must have a for-profit small business (or startup) based in the U.S. Most programs, including SBA microloans, require that the business be operating and for-profit.

Some lenders may require at least a few months of operation, while others will lend to brand-new businesses. For example, the SBA report shows that 27% of SBA microloans in 2025 went to startups (businesses <2 years old), indicating that even very young companies can qualify.
Credit and personal background. Many microlenders look at the owner’s personal credit and financial history, but are more flexible than banks. Some (like Kiva or Grameen) have no minimum credit score requirement.

Others may require a modest score (e.g. 575 for Ascendus). In any case, you’ll usually need to provide personal financial statements and authorize a credit check. Factors such as prior bankruptcies may be considered.
Collateral and guarantee. As noted, many lenders require collateral (like equipment or real estate) or a personal guarantee.

This means you’re personally on the hook if the business can’t repay. A few programs (e.g. Kiva, Grameen) explicitly do not require collateral, using other underwriting methods.
Business plan and purpose. Lenders generally want a clear plan for how you’ll use the funds. You may need a business plan or budget showing how the loan will be used for eligible purposes (inventory, equipment, etc.).
Geographic or demographic criteria. Some microloan programs target specific regions or communities.

For example, many CDFIs focus on certain states or urban areas. Eligibility might be limited to residents of that area or to certain industries (e.g. agriculture, childcare). Others are national in scope.
Application documents. Expect to assemble key documents:
- Personal and business tax returns (usually 2–3 years).
- Personal and business bank statements.
- Business financial statements (profit/loss, balance sheet).
- Business plan or description of need.
- Personal résumé or background.
- Any legal documents (licenses, registrations).

In short, prepare to show who you are, what your business does, and how you’ll use and repay the loan. Some programs (like SBA intermediaries) also require you to complete training courses before disbursement.

How to apply

First, identify microloan programs available to you. A good starting point is the SBA’s microlender directory, which you can search by state to find approved lenders. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in your area may also offer microloans.

After finding a lender, reach out to discuss your plan. You’ll then fill out an application (often online or on paper) and submit your documents. The lender will review your credit, business plan, and financials, and may interview you. If approved, the loan terms (amount, rate, repayment schedule) will be set and disbursed.

Because each lender is different, it pays to ask for a list of requirements up front. In general, the easier-to-get programs will have more flexible credit requirements but may require extra support (like counseling).

As NerdWallet advises, “evaluate your business’s credentials” (credit, revenue, time in business, etc.) to anticipate which loan options you might qualify for.

Microloans vs Other Funding Options

When deciding on startup financing, it helps to compare microloans to alternative sources of capital:

Traditional SBA loans (7(a) or 504): These are larger government-backed loans. For instance, the SBA’s 7(a) loans can reach up to $5 million, but they typically require at least 1–2 years in business, stronger credit, and collateral.

They also take longer to approve. Microloans, by contrast, cap at $50,000 but often have more lenient terms for brand-new businesses. In practice, a startup that needs under $50K and can’t qualify for a 7(a) loan might choose a microloan first.
Bank or credit union loans: Traditional bank loans usually require solid credit and some operating history. New startups often cannot get bank loans without a significant track record. Microloans bridge that gap by focusing on very small businesses.

If your startup is slightly more established, a bank loan might offer better rates (since it’s secured by the bank) and higher amounts, but it’s much harder to get than a microloan for a novice entrepreneur.
Business lines of credit: A line of credit (LOC) gives flexibility – you can draw funds as needed, up to a limit. Some microlenders (including SBA intermediaries) do offer lines of credit, but many lines of credit are offered by banks or online lenders.

Lines of credit often require good credit and can have variable interest. If you only need intermittent financing for short-term expenses, a credit line could work.

However, banks may hesitate to give a line to a very new startup, whereas microloans focus on one-time lump-sum funding.
Personal funds or credit cards: Many entrepreneurs start by self-funding or using personal credit cards. While this avoids debt service constraints (beyond personal obligation), it can be risky and limit growth.

Personal credit cards often have high interest. Microloans may offer lower rates and larger sums than personal credit. However, personal loans might be quicker (since you already have the account), whereas a microloan application takes time.
Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter or equity crowdfunding sites can raise startup capital without taking debt. This avoids loan payments, but is only suitable if you have a product that can be pre-sold or an investor pitch.

Crowdfunding also requires marketing effort and has no guarantee of success. Microloans, on the other hand, require repayment but give you cash without giving up equity.
Grants and contests: Startup grants (often by governments or nonprofits) provide funding you don’t repay.

These can be ideal, but they’re usually highly competitive, limited in scope, and often smaller amounts than microloans. If you qualify, a grant is great, but you should consider microloans if grants aren’t available or enough.
Venture capital or angel investment: If your startup is in tech or a high-growth industry, you might attract investors who give you cash in exchange for equity. This is very different from microloans: it dilutes ownership but provides mentoring and large sums.

Most microloan-recipients are not seeking VC – microloans are more suited to modest, community-based businesses rather than high-growth startups.

In summary, microloans occupy the niche of small-scale, debt financing with relatively easy access. If you only need a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, and you have limited business history, a microloan may be easier to get than a bank loan, but will involve repayment.

If you need larger funding or want to avoid debt, you’d look elsewhere. It’s often wise to use microloans in combination with other funding – for instance, using a microloan for startup costs while planning to expand later with a bank loan or investor funding.

Best Microloan Providers for Startups (U.S.)

The following are some of the top microloan programs and lenders available to U.S. startups. Each has its own focus, terms, and eligibility. Review them to see which fits your needs:

Provider / Program	Loan Amount	Interest Rate	Key Features
SBA Microloan Program	Up to $50,000	~8–13% (varies by lender)	Up to 7-year term; administered through nonprofit intermediaries; eligible for many business uses. Average loan ~$13–16K.
Accion Opportunity Fund	$5,000–$100,000	5.99%–17.99%	Leading nonprofit small business lender; no minimum credit score; loans up to $100K; offers coaching/training; no prepayment penalty.
LiftFund (CDFI)	Varies (from $5K)	~10% typical	Community lender in 15 states; issues SBA microloans and other SBA loans; specializes in underserved entrepreneurs; provides group training and one-on-one coaching.
Kiva U.S.	Up to $15,000	0% (interest-free)	Peer-to-peer crowdfunding lender; interest-free loans; requires “social underwriting” (friends/family help lend); 36-month max term; nationwide, focuses on community backing.
Grameen America	$500–$2,000 initial	15%–18%	Women’s microlending nonprofit; requires formation of a small group of borrowers; includes financial training for women entrepreneurs; no credit score required.
Ascendus	$500–$50,000	~7.5% and up	Nonprofit lender; accessible to borrowers with credit scores as low as 575; offers microloans plus larger business loans; provides training and supports entrepreneurs of color.

Each row above provides a snapshot. More detail on the top ones follows:

SBA Microloan Program

The U.S. Small Business Administration’s Microloan Program is the primary federal source of microloans. SBA doesn’t lend directly but funds intermediary lenders (usually nonprofits or community lenders) that operate nationwide.

Key points: loans up to $50,000 (average ~$13–16K); terms up to 6–7 years; interest rates typically 8%–13%. These loans can cover standard business uses (working capital, equipment, etc.).

Eligibility is flexible (requirements vary by intermediary), but they usually require a personal guarantee and possibly collateral.

SBA microloans are generally considered a good fit when you need under $50K and want a lower rate than a merchant cash advance. To apply, find an SBA-approved microloan intermediary in your state via the SBA website.

Accion Opportunity Fund (AOF)

Accion Opportunity Fund is a leading nonprofit small-business lender (part of the global Accion network). It offers loans $5,000 to $100,000 with terms of 1–5 years.

Importantly, AOF has no minimum credit score, making it accessible if your credit is low. Interest rates range roughly 6%–18% (depending on credit and loan type). AOF does not charge prepayment penalties and provides borrowers with educational resources and support.

It focuses on startups and businesses that may not qualify elsewhere. If you are in one of AOF’s 45 state service areas, it’s worth applying. Be prepared to show some revenue history and a plan for use of funds.

LiftFund

LiftFund is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) headquartered in Texas but serving 15 states. It provides SBA microloans (and other SBA loans) to small businesses, with loans typically starting at $5,000 and interest around 10% (can vary).

LiftFund specializes in startups and entrepreneurs with limited credit, collateral or experience. The application requires being 21+, and excludes businesses in some industries (for instance, no adult entertainment).

A standout feature is the business training: LiftFund offers workshops and one-on-one business coaching for borrowers. If your startup is in one of LiftFund’s served states (e.g. AL, GA, FL, TX, NY, etc.), they are a strong candidate.

Kiva U.S.

Kiva is a unique peer-to-peer microloan platform that offers interest-free loans up to $15,000. To get a Kiva loan, you first apply on their website and pass a prequalification.

Then you must attract loans from your personal network: friends and family are invited to co-lend the amount, which establishes “social underwriting.” After you reach the initial goal, Kiva opens the loan to the public to crowdfund the rest.

There is no minimum credit score, no income requirement, and no collateral. If successfully funded, you have up to 36 months to repay.

Kiva is best for small funding needs (<$15K) and for borrowers with a supportive community. Because it’s interest-free, it’s an excellent option if you can manage the time and networking requirement.

Grameen America

Grameen America offers microloans specifically to low-income women entrepreneurs. Their loans start at $500–$2,000 (first-time loans), with a 6-month term for each loan cycle. Borrowers form a peer group of five women and undergo financial training together.

After training, each receives an individual microloan and repays it weekly within the group context. Interest rates are about 15–18%. The program is available in select cities and Connecticut, and requires no minimum credit score, business income, or collateral.

For low-income women, Grameen provides capital plus community support, but the loan amounts are quite small compared to other microloans.

Other Notable Microlenders

Ascendus (formerly LiftFund’s predecessor): A CDFI offering loans up to $50,000. It is known for accepting low-credit borrowers (min score ~575) and considering overall potential. Ascendus also provides business training.
Accion Miami/Dallas/Philadelphia (various branches): Local Accion offices offer similar microloan programs in various regions, often with slightly different terms than AOF’s national program.
Opportunity Fund: The former name for Accion AOF; some local community lenders still use this name.
Local Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and CDFIs: Many states have community lenders (e.g. Chicago Urban League, Rural Action, PCDC) that make microloans; check if your state’s SBDC or CDFI has a loan program.

Provider	Loan Size	Interest Rate	Key Points
SBA Microloan	Up to $50,000	~8–13%	SBA-funded via intermediaries; average loan ~$13K; up to 7-year term; broad eligible uses.
Accion AOF	$5K–$100K	5.99–17.99%	National nonprofit; no minimum credit score; education & coaching provided; no prepayment penalty.
LiftFund	~$5K+	~10%	CDFI in 15 states; offers SBA microloans & 504; flexible for startups; training included.
Kiva U.S.	Up to $15K	0% (interest-free)	Peer-to-peer loan; social underwriting by friends/family; 36-month max; minimal eligibility.
Grameen America	$500–$2K (initial)	15–18%	For women entrepreneurs; group lending model; weekly payments; training provided.
Ascendus	$500–$50K	7.5%+	Nonprofit; low credit score (575) suffices; offers additional business resources and mentoring.

This table should help you compare the major options. After considering terms and eligibility, contact the lender(s) that match your needs to start the application process.

How to Apply for a Microloan

If a microloan seems right for your startup, here are steps to apply:

Evaluate options and eligibility. Review the programs above and others in your area. Use the SBA’s microlender directory to find local intermediaries. Consider any demographic or industry focus. Check that your startup meets basic criteria (e.g. type of business, location).
Prepare your documents. Assemble financial paperwork: personal and business tax returns, bank statements, profit/loss statements, business plan or summary, loan purpose statement. Each lender will have specific requirements, but common needs are documented in our sources. Highlight how the loan will help your business grow.
Contact lenders. Reach out to 1–3 microlenders. You can often apply online or set up a meeting. Ask each lender what they require (credit score, collateral, training). Be clear about the loan amount you need and how you’ll use it.
Submit application. Complete the lender’s application form fully. Attach or upload your documents. Some microlenders will have you attend an information session or training as part of the process (especially SBA intermediaries).
Follow up and negotiate. Once submitted, the lender will review your credit and business plan. They may ask for clarifications or further documentation. If approved, review the loan agreement carefully: note the interest rate, repayment schedule, and any fees or collateral requirements.
Close and receive funds. Sign the final loan documents. Some programs (like the SBA microloan) may disburse funds as a lump sum. Others might release funds in stages or as reimbursements. Plan for how you will promptly spend or allocate the funds according to your budget.

Keep in mind that even with easier eligibility, approval is not guaranteed. Lenders will evaluate your ability to repay. If you are initially denied, ask the lender for feedback and consider improving your business plan or credit before reapplying later.

Tip: Because each lender has different forms and processes, it’s wise to collect and organize your documents in advance (e.g. have your latest tax returns, bank statements and ID ready). This can speed up applications and improve your chances.

FAQs

Q1: What kinds of startups qualify for microloans?

A: Most microloan programs target new or small businesses across a variety of industries. In the U.S., startups (even those under 2 years old) can get SBA microloans – in fact, 27% of SBA microloans went to businesses less than 2 years old in FY2025.

Nonprofit lenders often focus on underserved entrepreneurs (women, minorities, veterans). The key is meeting the lender’s specific criteria (e.g. location, business type). Check individual programs – many explicitly welcome startups.

Q2: How is a microloan different from a regular small business loan?

A: A microloan is simply a smaller loan, usually under $50,000. Regular small business loans (like SBA 7(a) or bank term loans) often start higher. Microloans generally have more flexible eligibility (easier for startups) but are for much smaller amounts.

Interest rates on microloans can be competitive but sometimes higher if the lender is a nonprofit. And microloans often come with business support services. In contrast, traditional loans may offer more money or longer terms but have stricter requirements. For example, an SBA 7(a) loan can go up to $5 million but usually needs at least one year in business.

Q3: Can I use a microloan to pay off other debts or buy a building?

A: Generally no. SBA microloans and most nonprofit microloans cannot be used to refinance existing debt or purchase real estate. They are intended for expanding the business (new equipment, inventory, working capital).

If you need to refinance debt or buy property, you’ll need a different loan product. Always check the lender’s approved uses of funds.

Q4: What is the interest rate and repayment term on a microloan?

A: It depends on the lender. SBA microloans typically have 8%–13% interest and up to 6–7 years to repay. Other lenders vary: some microlenders might charge 5%–18% and terms from 1 to 7 years.

For example, Grameen America charges 15%–18% over a 6-month cycle, while Kiva loans are interest-free with a 36-month term. Always ask the lender to quote the specific APR and term for your situation before accepting.

Q5: How do I find a microloan provider in my state?

A: Start with the SBA’s Microlender Directory on , which lets you search approved SBA microloan intermediaries by state. Also check your state or local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) or Economic Development agency – they often know about local CDFIs and nonprofit lenders.

Alternatively, websites of national organizations like LiftFund or Accion will list their eligible states on their sites. If nothing fits, you might consider online microloan platforms like Kiva U.S. (nationwide).

Q6: What if I’m not approved for a microloan?

A: If denied, ask the lender for reasons. You may need to improve your credit, provide more documentation, or build a more solid business plan.

Meanwhile, you could seek other funding (e.g. a business line of credit, bootstrapping, or angel investment). Some entrepreneurs reapply after strengthening their finances. Also, consider smaller community lenders or crowd-sourced funding as interim options.

Q7: Are online microloans available?

A: Yes, some online lenders and CDFIs offer microloan-style products. For example, companies like LendingTree or Fundera aggregate microloan offers, and organizations like Accion/DigitalUndivided provide online applications.

However, true interest-free microloans (like Kiva) are still rare online. Always verify the lender’s credentials – prefer SBA-approved intermediaries or well-known nonprofits.

Q8: Can my startup get multiple microloans from different sources?

A: Potentially, yes, but it depends on the lenders and your ability to repay. Some entrepreneurs take a small loan from one microlender and later seek another (or scale up to a larger loan).

Just ensure that each lender approves of your total debt load. Note that SBA guidelines may limit concurrent SBA microloans (you typically repay one before getting another). Always maintain a manageable repayment schedule.

Conclusion

Microloans for startups can be a powerful tool to get a small business off the ground or through an early hurdle. They offer accessible capital when traditional loans are out of reach, often with supportive features like mentorship and lenient credit checks.

However, they come with trade-offs: the amounts are limited (typically max $50K), and borrowers often must provide collateral or personal guarantees. Interest rates vary by lender (some are quite competitive, others higher), and the approval process can take time.

For many entrepreneurs, microloans fill a unique niche: they finance small-scale needs (inventory, equipment, working capital) without the strict requirements of a bank. If used wisely, they can help a startup prove its viability and build credit for future financing.

Before applying, compare programs (using our table and summaries), check your eligibility, and consider the pros and cons carefully. By understanding the terms and planning your loan use, you can maximize the benefits of a microloan for your startup’s success.

Ultimately, microloans are one piece of the startup funding puzzle. They’re best for specific situations: when you need a modest amount, have limited credit history, and can use the funds for approved business purposes.

If that matches your needs, reach out to an SBA microlender or nonprofit finance provider today – they may be more ready to lend you money than you think.