Business expansion is one of the primary reasons that small businesses seek out financing. But if your business is taking on its first big expansion or you are relatively new to the modern world of financing, finding the best financing solution for your expansion may seem daunting. After all, both expansion and financing are not one-size-fits all, especially when considering that different type of business growth call for certain types of business financing. How do you determine which type of business financing is best for your expansion plans?
Types of Business Financing that Fund Expansion
Let’s go product by product and lay out some use cases where one type of financing may fit better than another.
The Versatile Nature of Business Loans
It is very common to pair a business loan with expansion because business loans are so versatile. Business loans allow an owner to take out a lump sum of capital after making an agreement to pay that sum back over time with predetermined interest. So, any kind of expansion that calls for a lump sum of money, (that would mean most) could likely be expedited with a business loan.
Any kind of expansion – from mergers to real estate has the potential to increase profits, especially with an owner who knows their industry well. Using a business loan to strategically expand your operation is so common, then, because it fits so many practical use cases. Further, business loans tend to have much longer repayment terms compared to other types of financing. This means that business loans may be the preferred choice for expansions that take longer to break even or require a significant amount of capital upfront.
Expansion Through Equipment
If your expansion is going to require new equipment, then equipment financing is an excellent option to consider. Equipment financing, as the name implies, is a financing product specifically for acquiring equipment. This means that the total value of the loan should not exceed the price of that equipment, plus interest. Further, in many equipment financing cases, the equipment itself can be used as collateral for the loan. The terms of the loan, also, are often based on the life expectancy of the machinery itself.
Expediting your ability to acquire new equipment is a great way to increase your profits faster. For example, a trucking company could use equipment financing to expand its fleet. This trucking company could then increase its capacity to take on orders thereby meeting expectations for that return on investment.
Leverage Outstanding Invoices to Fund Expansion
By leveraging invoice factoring, small businesses can access immediate cash flow by selling their outstanding invoices to a factoring company at a discounted rate. This infusion of funds can then go toward growth-related needs such as expanding operations, hiring staff, investing in marketing, or purchasing inventory. Unlike traditional financing options, invoice factoring often doesn’t require traditional collateral (the invoice, itself, can typically be used as the collateral) and it doesn’t have a lengthy approval process, making it an attractive option for small businesses looking to expand quickly.
By staying proactive in managing finances and working closely with your factoring partner, small business owners can leverage invoice factoring as a strategic tool to fuel growth and achieve their expansion objectives.
Expansion Opportunites Funded by Future Revenue
Revenue-based Financing offers an alternative funding solution for small businesses looking to fuel growth. This financial tool allows businesses to receive a lump sum upfront in exchange for a percentage of future credit card sales. Unlike traditional loans, RBF are based on a business’s projected revenue rather than credit history, making them accessible to businesses with limited credit or those in need of quick funding. The flexibility and speed of RBF makes it an appealing option for businesses looking to seize growth opportunities without the constraints of traditional lending processes.
To effectively leverage RBF for small business growth, it’s essential to understand the terms and repayment structure. While RBF offers quick access to capital, they typically come with higher fees and shorter repayment periods compared to traditional loans. Small businesses should carefully evaluate the terms of their specific RBF deal and make sure they have a clear plan for repayment that won’t strain cash flow.
Make sure to explore multiple RBF providers to find the best fit for your needs, considering factors such as fees, repayment terms, and customer service reputation. By using RBF strategically and responsibly, small businesses can accelerate their growth trajectory and achieve their expansion goals.
Expand with Government-Backed Funds
Small Business Administration (SBA) loans offer a valuable avenue for small businesses to secure financing and foster growth. These loans, backed by the federal government, provide businesses with access to capital for various growth initiatives, including expansion, equipment purchases, working capital, and more. SBA loans often feature longer repayment terms and lower interest rates compared to conventional loans, making them an attractive option for businesses seeking affordable financing options. Moreover, the SBA’s guarantee mitigates risk for lenders, making it easier for small businesses to qualify, even if they lack extensive credit history or collateral. By leveraging SBA loans, small businesses can unlock the financial resources needed to scale operations, enter new markets, hire additional staff, and ultimately realize their growth potential.
Expanding Your Business and Your Receivables
Smart financing can be a strategic move for small businesses aiming to expand their operations and reach new heights of success. Whether through traditional bank loans, SBA loans, revenue-based financing, or invoice factoring, businesses have a range of financing options available to expedite expansion. However, it’s crucial for business owners to carefully evaluate their needs, assess the terms and conditions of each loan product, and develop a comprehensive repayment plan to ensure financial stability and success in the long term. By leveraging loans responsibly and strategically, small businesses can overcome financial barriers, seize growth opportunities, and achieve their goals, ultimately paving the way for expansion and growth that lasts.