Can I get a startup loan with no business history?

Yes. This is the primary reason to use a personal loan for startup costs. The loan is underwritten based on your personal creditworthiness—your credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio—not the unproven potential of your business idea. Lenders are assessing your ability to repay based on your established financial habits, making it an ideal solution for brand-new ventures.

What's the smallest loan I can get for my side hustle?

Many online lenders in our network offer microloans starting as low as $500 or $1,000. This is perfect for micro-businesses that have very low startup costs, such as purchasing a software subscription, buying initial craft supplies, or paying for a professional logo design. It allows you to borrow only what you need and keep your monthly payments minimal.

Will applying for a small business loan affect my credit score?

Checking your rate and eligibility through our platform uses a 'soft credit inquiry,' which does not affect your credit score. You can see potential offers with peace of mind. A 'hard credit inquiry,' which can temporarily lower your score by a few points, only occurs if you select a specific loan offer and proceed with that lender's formal application process.

Can I use a personal loan to fund an Etsy shop or a virtual assistant business?

Absolutely. Most personal loans can be used for any legal purpose, and funding a small business is a very common use. For an Etsy shop, you could cover the cost of materials, shipping supplies, and listing fees. For a virtual assistant business, you might use the funds for a new computer, specialized software, professional development courses, or marketing your services.

How quickly can I get funds for my micro-business?

The process is designed for speed. After you submit your online application and are approved by a lender, the funds are often deposited directly into your bank account via ACH transfer. This typically happens within one to two business days, though some lenders may even offer next-day or same-day funding in certain cases.

What kind of income do I need to show for a $2,000 loan?

You don't need income from the business you're starting. Lenders will evaluate your personal income from your primary job, a part-time job, or other verifiable sources. They want to see that you have a stable and sufficient income to comfortably handle the new monthly loan payment on top of your existing financial obligations.

Are there specific 'side hustle loans' or should I just apply for a personal loan?

'Side hustle loan' or 'microloan for startup' are terms used to describe the purpose of the financing. The actual financial product you will be applying for is an unsecured personal loan. When you apply, you can often state 'business' or 'other' as the reason for the loan. The key is that you're getting a flexible personal loan and using it for your business needs.

Is a personal loan better than a business credit card for startup costs?

It depends on your needs. A personal loan is generally better for a single, large, upfront expense, as it provides a lump sum of cash with a fixed repayment schedule. A business credit card is often better suited for smaller, recurring operational expenses. For brand-new founders, a personal loan's fixed, lower APR is often more predictable and affordable than a credit card's high, variable APR.

Startup Business Loans Under $5,000

For founders of side hustles and micro-businesses who need a small amount of capital to get started, fast.

Check your rate

Traditional Business Loans Aren't Built for Your Side Hustle

Your $2,000 funding need is considered 'too small' for most banks.
Our lender network specializes in personal loans starting as low as $500, perfect for micro-business needs.
Business loan applications require revenue history you don't have yet.
Personal loans are based on your personal credit and income, not your business's non-existent track record.
You need capital to launch next week, not in three months.
The online process is fast, with funds often deposited in just 1-2 business days after approval.
Explaining your Etsy shop or virtual assistant gig to a loan officer feels pointless.
With a personal loan, the 'why' is less important; you have the flexibility to use the funds for any startup cost.

Funding Your Dream with a Small Personal Loan

That brilliant idea for an Etsy shop, a side hustle as a virtual assistant, or a micro-business selling custom crafts doesn't require a six-figure investment. Often, all that stands between your concept and your first sale is a few thousand dollars for inventory, registration, and basic marketing. For these situations, a small personal loan acts as the perfect launchpad. It's a simple, fast, and accessible form of startup funding designed for the scale of your ambition, providing the capital you need without the complex hurdles of traditional business financing.

Unlike a Small Business Administration (SBA) loan or a business line of credit, a personal loan for startup costs is unsecured and based on your individual financial profile. This means lenders are looking at your credit history and personal income, not a business plan or revenue projections. This is a critical advantage for aspiring entrepreneurs who are just getting started and have no business history to show. It levels the playing field, allowing your personal financial responsibility to unlock your business potential.

Why a Personal Loan is the Smart Choice for Micro-Startups

When you only need a loan under $5,000, speed and simplicity are paramount. A personal loan excels here. The application process is typically entirely online, can be completed in minutes, and funding decisions are often made within hours. For a side hustle, this agility is key. It means you can jump on a bulk discount for supplies or secure a spot at a local market without waiting weeks for a bank committee's approval. The funds are deposited directly into your account, giving you immediate access to the cash you need to build momentum.

Furthermore, personal loans come with fixed interest rates and predictable monthly payments over a set term (e.g., 24 or 36 months). This structure is incredibly beneficial for a new business owner. You know exactly how much you need to pay each month, making it easy to incorporate the loan payment into your initial budget. There are no surprises, unlike a variable-rate credit card where payments can fluctuate. This financial predictability helps you manage cash flow effectively as you work to make your side gig profitable.

Your Path to a Small Startup Loan

1
Check your rate online
Our simple form takes about two minutes to complete and checking your eligibility will not impact your credit score.
2
Choose your loan offer
If you qualify, you can compare loan amounts, terms, and APRs from our network of lending partners to find the best fit.
3
Verify your information
Finalize your application by securely providing a few documents, such as a government-issued ID and proof of income.
4
Get your funds
Once approved, your money is often deposited directly into your bank account in as little as one business day.

See What You Could Qualify For

A quick check won't affect your credit score and lets you see real numbers for your side hustle.

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Understanding the Costs to Launch Your Side Hustle

Visualizing where the money goes can make the idea of a loan feel much more concrete. For most micro-businesses or side hustles, the initial costs are manageable and targeted. You're not renting office space or hiring a team; you're buying the essential tools and inventory to start generating revenue. A small loan of $2,000 can often cover 100% of these initial expenses.

Example: Launching an Etsy Shop with a $2,000 Loan

LLC Registration & Fees State filing fees	$150
Basic Supplies (Packaging, Labels, Printer) Initial inventory	$350
First Batch of Product Inventory Materials or wholesale cost	$1,000
Etsy/Shopify Setup & Basic Marketing Theme, initial ads	$500

Estimated monthly

~$97/mo

Based on a 2-year term at 15% APR

Loan amount: $500 – $5,000
APR: 7.99% – 35.99%
Term: 12 mo – 36 mo

Your actual APR depends on factors like credit score, requested loan amount, loan term, and credit history. Only borrowers with excellent credit will qualify for the lowest rates.

Find the Right Loan for Your Startup

Compare personalized offers from multiple lenders in one place.

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How Small Startup Loans Compare to Other Options

When you need less than $5,000, you have a few options. Each has its own pros and cons, but a personal loan often strikes the best balance of cost, speed, and structure for a new business venture. Using personal savings is always the cheapest option, but it's not feasible for everyone and can put your personal financial safety at risk. A loan allows you to keep your emergency fund intact while still pursuing your business idea.

Funding Options for Your Side Hustle

	Small Personal Loan	Business Credit Card	Friends & Family
Typical APR	8-35.99% (Fixed)	20-30% (Variable)	Varies (or 0%)
Funding Speed	1-3 business days	Instant (if approved)	Varies greatly
Repayment Structure	Fixed monthly payments	Revolving debt, min. payment	Informal, can strain relationships
Best For	A planned, one-time lump sum for initial startup costs.	Small, ongoing business expenses and building business credit.	When formal credit isn't an option and terms are clear.

What You'll Need to Qualify

Credit Score: Most lenders look for a FICO score of 600 or higher. A score above 670 will give you access to more options and better rates.
Verifiable Income: You'll need to show steady income from your primary job or other reliable sources to prove you can repay the loan.
Debt-to-Income (DTI) Ratio: Lenders check that your existing monthly debt payments aren't too high relative to your gross monthly income, typically preferring a DTI below 40%.
Bank Account: A valid U.S. checking account is required for identity verification and to receive the funds electronically.
Identification: You must be at least 18 years old and provide a valid Social Security Number and government-issued ID.

If your credit is borderline, you can strengthen your application by ensuring all your current bills are paid on time and checking your credit report for errors before you apply. Reducing credit card balances can also give your score a quick boost.

Avoid These Common Microloan Mistakes

Borrowing Too Much: Only take what you absolutely need. A $2,000 loan is much easier to manage than a $5,000 loan if your initial costs are low. Map out every expense first to arrive at a realistic number.
Ignoring the APR: Focus on the Annual Percentage Rate (APR), which includes fees, not just the interest rate. The APR represents the true cost of borrowing and is the best metric for comparing loan offers.
Mixing Funds Carelessly: Even though it's a personal loan, open a separate, free business checking account. Deposit the loan there and run all business expenses through it. This makes bookkeeping and taxes infinitely easier.
Having No Repayment Plan: Before you sign, have a clear idea of how you'll make the monthly payments, especially for the first few months before your side hustle generates consistent income. Build it into your personal budget.
Skipping the Fine Print: Look for prepayment penalties. Most personal loans from reputable lenders don't have them, meaning you can pay off the loan early without a fee once your business takes off.

Ready to take the next step?

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Small Startup Loan Questions

Can I get a startup loan with no business history?
Yes. This is the primary reason to use a personal loan for startup costs. The loan is underwritten based on your personal creditworthiness—your credit score, income, and debt-to-income ratio—not the unproven potential of your business idea. Lenders are assessing your ability to repay based on your established financial habits, making it an ideal solution for brand-new ventures.
What's the smallest loan I can get for my side hustle?
Many online lenders in our network offer microloans starting as low as $500 or $1,000. This is perfect for micro-businesses that have very low startup costs, such as purchasing a software subscription, buying initial craft supplies, or paying for a professional logo design. It allows you to borrow only what you need and keep your monthly payments minimal.
Will applying for a small business loan affect my credit score?
Checking your rate and eligibility through our platform uses a 'soft credit inquiry,' which does not affect your credit score. You can see potential offers with peace of mind. A 'hard credit inquiry,' which can temporarily lower your score by a few points, only occurs if you select a specific loan offer and proceed with that lender's formal application process.
Can I use a personal loan to fund an Etsy shop or a virtual assistant business?
Absolutely. Most personal loans can be used for any legal purpose, and funding a small business is a very common use. For an Etsy shop, you could cover the cost of materials, shipping supplies, and listing fees. For a virtual assistant business, you might use the funds for a new computer, specialized software, professional development courses, or marketing your services.
How quickly can I get funds for my micro-business?
The process is designed for speed. After you submit your online application and are approved by a lender, the funds are often deposited directly into your bank account via ACH transfer. This typically happens within one to two business days, though some lenders may even offer next-day or same-day funding in certain cases.
What kind of income do I need to show for a $2,000 loan?
You don't need income from the business you're starting. Lenders will evaluate your personal income from your primary job, a part-time job, or other verifiable sources. They want to see that you have a stable and sufficient income to comfortably handle the new monthly loan payment on top of your existing financial obligations.
Are there specific 'side hustle loans' or should I just apply for a personal loan?
'Side hustle loan' or 'microloan for startup' are terms used to describe the purpose of the financing. The actual financial product you will be applying for is an unsecured personal loan. When you apply, you can often state 'business' or 'other' as the reason for the loan. The key is that you're getting a flexible personal loan and using it for your business needs.
Is a personal loan better than a business credit card for startup costs?
It depends on your needs. A personal loan is generally better for a single, large, upfront expense, as it provides a lump sum of cash with a fixed repayment schedule. A business credit card is often better suited for smaller, recurring operational expenses. For brand-new founders, a personal loan's fixed, lower APR is often more predictable and affordable than a credit card's high, variable APR.

Turn your side hustle into your main hustle

Personal loan disclosure

Money Savvy is not a lender. We are a marketing service that connects consumers with participating lenders. Rates, amounts, and terms vary by lender, your credit history, and other factors.

Loan amounts: $1,000 – $100,000
Repayment terms: 3 – 84 months
Min APR: 5.99%
Max APR: 35.99%
Origination fees: 0% – 10% of the loan amount
Late fees: May apply; vary by lender

Representative example: A $10,000 loan with a 36-month term at an 18.99% APR would have an approximate monthly payment of $366.39 and a total cost of $13,190.04, including interest and a $500 origination fee.

Your actual APR depends on your credit score, income, and other factors. Only borrow what you can afford to repay.

California residents: California Financing Law disclosures available upon request.