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General

What are the best lenders for a startup business?

Written by
Alex Morgan · Head of Credit
Reviewed by
Betty Francis · Chief Compliance Officer
Last reviewed
June 12, 2026
Short Answer
Startups (under 24 months) qualify for SBA Microloans, SBA 7(a) when buying an established business, equipment financing collateralized by the asset, and revenue-based working capital after 6 months of bank statements.

Detail

True startups don't meet the SBA 7(a) 24-month operating test as a standalone borrower, but four paths still work. First, SBA 7(a) for acquisition — the 24-month test runs against the target business, so a new entity can buy an established business with SBA 7(a) financing. Second, SBA Microloan up to $50K. Third, equipment financing — because the equipment is the collateral, revenue history matters less. Fourth, revenue-based working capital, available after 6 months of bank statements and $15K+ monthly deposits. Inflection Financing underwrites all four of these paths in-house.

Key facts

  • SBA 7(a) for acquisition — 24-month test runs against the target
  • SBA Microloan: up to $50K
  • Equipment financing: collateralized by the asset, lighter revenue test
  • Revenue-based working capital: 6 months of bank statements
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