Startup and Early-Stage businesses may need to take non-traditional paths for funding as the business may not have produced enough social proof to access funding through traditional outlets. With my experience in community development, there may be additional outlets to research within your local community that be helpful in your business funding search. Below are guides, tips, and resources to consider not related to your business plan, that may be an option to aid your funding eligibility.

Funding Tips

  • An outlet to overcome lack of business history is leveraging personal experience and growth of business owner.

    • Find local non-profit credit repair program if credit needs repaired. (Lean on your credit history if in good standing without business history)

    • Obtain free or low-cost certifications relevant to your industry. This shows additional motivation and encouragement to successfully operate the business.

    • Leverage work experience of all staff and partners relevant to business operations.

  • Core SBA Partners

    • Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs). May be an avenue to receive free business consulting, training, and workshops that may be helpful to mention to access funding.

    • SCORE offers free mentoring from experienced volunteers, online resources, templates, and workshops covering topics like eCommerce, crisis management, and business planning. SCORE​

    • Women's Business Centers deliver targeted counseling, networking, and classes for women entrepreneurs, focusing on overcoming economic or social barriers.​

    Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) centers offer consulting for high-growth minority businesses, including capital access and market expansion.​

    Local and State Resources

    • State programs like Ohio SBDCs and SSBCI Technical Assistance prepare businesses for financing through tailored support

    • Seek local Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). May be an option for more flexibility lending terms and underwriting requirements.

    • Nonprofit lending avenues near you. There’s often a business practices and technical assistance approach to their funding, making underwriting more flexibile.

    • Look into programs such as: The State Small Business Credit Initiative