SBA 7(a) Loan
The SBA 7(a) loan is a government-backed program that supports a wide range of uses—working capital, refinancing eligible business debt, equipment, leasehold improvements, and even business acquisition. While the SBA guarantees a portion of the loan to the lender, the borrower remains responsible for repayment. Typical features may include longer terms compared to many conventional loans and rates that are often variable, commonly tied to the Prime rate. Learn more at the official SBA 7(a) page and an overview from Investopedia.
- Good fit for: Expansion, working capital, refinancing certain debt, equipment, and acquisitions.
- Considerations: More documentation, underwriting time, and eligibility requirements compared to some alternatives.
Related reading: Complete SBA Loan Guide (7(a) requirements, rates)
SBA Express Loan
Part of the 7(a) family, SBA Express offers smaller loan sizes with streamlined processes relative to standard 7(a). Eligibility and terms vary by lender. See a practical primer here: SBA Express Loan Guide.
Term Loan for Small Business
A traditional business term loan offers a lump sum with fixed or variable rates and a set repayment schedule. Good for predictable projects with clear ROI. Compare considerations here: Term Loan and this in-depth guide: Term Loan for Small Business (2025).
Business Line of Credit
A revolving line lets you draw funds as needed and pay interest only on what you use—often well-suited to seasonality and short-term working capital. Learn more: Business Line of Credit and Business Line of Credit Guide.
Short Term Business Loan
Short-term financing typically features quicker decision cycles and shorter repayment horizons. It may cost more on an annualized basis but can be useful for time-sensitive opportunities or bridging cash flow gaps. Explore how structures work: Short-Term Online Loan.
Equipment Financing
For machinery, vehicles, and technology, equipment loans or leases are often underwritten to the asset itself, which can simplify collateral considerations. Compare formats here: Equipment Financing and read the 2025 guide: Equipment Financing Guide.
Invoice Factoring
If customers pay in 30–90 days, invoice factoring can accelerate cash by advancing on accounts receivable. Fees depend on volume, credit quality of your customers, and days outstanding. Deep dive: Invoice Factoring Guide.
Merchant Cash Advance
An MCA provides an upfront sum repaid via a share of future sales (or fixed ACH). It is not a loan, and typical costs can be higher than many alternatives. It’s often used when speed and flexible underwriting are priorities. Learn the mechanics and risks here: Merchant Cash Advance Guide.
Revenue-Based Financing
Repayment is tied to a percentage of monthly revenue until a pre-agreed cap is reached. This aligns payments with cash inflow variability. Explore how this model works here: Revenue-Based Financing.
Startup Business Funding
Pre-revenue or early-stage companies in Raleigh often piece together capital from personal savings, friends and family, microloans, revenue-based financing, equipment leases, and angel investors. Local angel networks include groups like Triangle Angel Partners (TAP). Learn about structured startup financing here: Startup Loan and consider external resources like Triangle Angel Partners.
Business Grants for Small Businesses
Grants are competitive and rarely a primary funding source for most for-profit companies. However, targeted opportunities exist:
Because grant programs change frequently, check eligibility windows and terms directly on the program websites.
