Best Small-Business Loans for Women With Bad Credit

Fora Financial stands out as a fast funding option for borrowers who may fall short of qualifying for traditional bank financing. The lender can work with startups and borrowers with bad credit — as long as they have strong revenue. Fora offers large maximum loan amounts and can provide prepayment discounts for those who repay early.

• In business for at least six months.
• At least $20,000 per month in revenue.
• No open bankruptcies or dismissed bankruptcies within the past year.

Giggle Finance is specifically designed to offer small amounts of capital to freelancers, contractors and self-employed individuals. The company provides same-day funding through a simple application process. Giggle is also a standout option for borrowers with bad credit — as the company does not check your credit and instead uses your bank information to underwrite your application.

• Minimum credit score: All credit scores may be accepted (ranging from 300 to 850).
• Minimum time in business: Three months.
• Minimum annual revenue: $18,000.

SBA microloans are funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration and issued through approved intermediaries, typically nonprofit and community lenders. Microloans stand out as a choice for traditionally underserved businesses, such as startups, women-owned companies and businesses located in low-income communities. Although SBA microloans only provide up to $50,000, they offer competitive interest rates and repayment terms. They also have flexible eligibility requirements — making them a good option for borrowers who can’t qualify for other business loans.

• Be a U.S. business.
• Show your ability to repay the loan.
• Personal guarantee and collateral likely required.
• Specific financial qualifications determined by individual lender.

Rapid Finance’s online term loan is a good option for established businesses with lower credit scores. You can get large amounts of funding, with flexible repayment options and longer terms than some competitors offer. Rapid can approve applications within the same day and issue funds in as little as one business day.

• Valid proof of identity
• Business bank account
• Last three months of business bank statements

OnDeck’s short-term loan is a good option for making one-time investments in your business, such as opening a new location or renovating your space. This loan offers fast funding (sometimes as quickly as the same day) for borrowers who may not qualify for more traditional financing options. OnDeck’s short-term loan can also be used to establish and build business credit — as the lender reports your payment history to the three commercial credit bureaus.

• Minimum credit score: 625.
• Minimum time in business: 12 months.
• Minimum annual revenue: $100,000.
• Must have business bank account.

Triton Capital stands out as an online equipment lender for borrowers with lower credit scores. Triton Capital can finance new or used equipment in a variety of industries. The lender offers competitive interest rates, long repayment terms and flexible payment options. You may be able to get approved and receive funding in as fast as one business day.

• Minimum credit score: 580.
• Minimum time in business: 24 months.
• Minimum annual revenue: $150,000.

Accion Opportunity Fund (AOF) stands out as an affordable option for business owners who can’t qualify for traditional financing. AOF offers competitive interest rates, long repayment terms and flexible qualification requirements. Startups and borrowers with bad credit may qualify. This lender also targets its funding efforts toward minority-, women- and low-to-moderate-income entrepreneurs.

• Minimum credit score: 600.
• Minimum time in business: 12 months.
• Minimum annual revenue: $50,000.