Monday, August 1, 2011

Guide to Small Business Loans

One of the most problematic hurdles in the way of setting up a business is of capital. This is predominantly true for the Canadian small business owners since a lot of financial institutes shy away from lending money to these owners. Due to global recession and a lot of loan defaulters raising their heads every now and then, most of the financial institutes in Canada prefer lending loans to the big and established companies only. But, one should not be disappointed as there are some solutions that could cater to the needs of Canadian small business owners. However, to attain those solutions, you need to be a great communicator, have a strong and successful business strategy as well as excellent planning and organizing skills.

Basically the sole concern of Canadian Banks is that the borrower would repay the amount lent by the bank in due course of time. For this, the lending institutions want to make sure that the borrower is having a business plan that has prospects of success. So, you have to make the lender satisfied by your answers regarding what your business will be about and if it retains the ability to draw customers and be successful. Business loans are normally applied by sole owners who have no strong property or bank balance to bring out as a collateral, therefore it's a much risky endeavor for lenders. Due to these uncertain factors, banks consider a lot of factors before approving your application for small business loans. However, here are some basic points that you can implement to be successful in your endeavor.

1. It is very critical that you have a strong and clean credit history as this is the first thing that any bank would look at when they get your application in hand. If you have a good credit history, then you can be confident in presenting your case in the light of practical explanations regarding your business. The lender can sense the surety in your voice and you never know it proves helpful in getting you the requested loan amount.

2. To improve your chances of getting loans, it is important that you invest a sound amount of capital in your business, before approaching the lender. Once the lender understands your confidence, success factor, responsible nature and the ability of having sound financial management, you can hope for some positive response.

3. You should be in possession of a sound business plan before knocking the door of the bank or any other lending institute in Canada. The lender needs to know if the money you are borrowing will be used in a productive venture or not. This helps the lender know, if the borrower eventually will be able to repay the amount or not. Therefore, it is important that your business plan should be good enough to stand strong in a competitive market.

4. If the lender is still reluctant over a strong business plan, then you can convince him with collaterals or any other form of loan guarantees. All this will contribute in a good possibility for getting small business loan in Canada.