The challenges small business owners face don’t just stop at Covid. In the current economic climate, costs are on a steady rise while revenues remain stagnant or fall even further. This is especially true for businesses that primarily serve local markets with limited options for diversifying their revenue streams.

With prices of goods and services going up due to inflation, it can become hard for smaller firms to compete with larger ones who have easier access to more resources. While adapting to new regulatory changes can help maintain profit margins, such as switching from selling physical items to offering digital purchases online, this doesn’t necessarily address the issue of higher expenses.

2023 will be an exciting but trying year for small businesses everywhere. Understanding these challenges will be essential to success in 2023.

Increased Competition from Established Businesses

It’s no secret that entering a new market is always a difficult undertaking regardless of your size. Even capable businesses with solid foundations, experienced management, and established capital can struggle to compete in developed markets.

However, as a small business, there are still ways to get ahead. Understanding the competition and working to differentiate your business can help you stand out. Taking advantage of digital strategies and leveraging relationships with local partners can give you an edge. Even if you’re entering a crowded market.

Increasing Brand Awareness

Many companies discover that having a unique personality or commitment to their clients can pay HUGE dividends. Particularly with improved customer loyalty that manifests in long-term, profit-driven relationships through brand awareness.

There are MANY ways to spread brand awareness, but we found the three most successful were blogging, PR, and co-marketing.

• Blogging: Crafting a dependable, premium blog will help amplify your brand visibility. Driving more visitors to your website and converting them into leads.
• PR:  the practice of managing the communication between an organization and its stakeholders. It involves utilizing various tactics such as media relations, crisis communications, content marketing, and influencer management to shape public perception in favor of the organization.
• Co-marketing: By joining forces with another enterprise, you will acquire a significant share of their credibility and standing while also creating passionate brand ambassadors beyond your circle.

Lead Generation

Another worthy strategy in the small business toolbox is placing a heightened emphasis on digital lead generation. More specifically, it’s about generating enough high-value leads to keep your sales team growing. Marketing agents identify lead generation as one of their top priorities.

Consequently, it is imperative to generate leads that are of both premium quality and vast quantity. While this does seem rather grim regarding the art of lead generation as a whole, it also highlights a potential area for growth.

Securing more leads starts with optimizing your website to drive conversions.

Take a serious look at your site and ask the following:

• Does each webpage guide users to take specific actions?
• Have you created dedicated landing pages for all your campaigns?
• How are you gathering customer information? How can you improve on it?
• Have you added effective Calls to Action on all your web pages?

Expansion Challenges Faced With Growth

Even when a business isn’t dependent on its founder, there will come a time when the issues from growth can be just as imposing as their benefits. As the business expands, it will need to create additional organizational structures, implement new processes, and delegate authority.

Scaling Properly

This is a tough one because every business situation is unique. This issue appears in just about every single area of business. From development, content, marketing, creation, hiring, etc.

Business executives often prioritize growth over everything else, regardless of the cost. However, if your organization expands rapidly, you’ll need to recruit expeditiously in order to keep up. This can lead directly back to the issue of finding the best talent. 

Moreover, it is not uncommon to be excited about landing a big client and the potential that comes with it. Unfortunately, being able to live up to their expectations can become quite arduous This presents another challenge for small business owners: scaling without sacrificing quality.

Scaling without sacrificing quality is the key to success for small business owners. With a strategic approach and the right tactics, you can ensure staff turnover is low and that your venture is on a steady path to growth. Make sure you have the right financing in place when your business starts

Balancing Quality and Growth

If you want to be successful, you must deliver outstanding customer service and pay great attention to detail. However, this can often become so demanding that small business owners find themselves unable to grow.

It may seem counterintuitive, but companies can be overwhelmed by their success. With exponential growth comes a flurry of commitments, numerous contracts, and mounting orders. All requiring greater cash flow need to meet day-to-day financial obligations such as bills, payroll, and supplies.

This does tend to be a theme regarding challenges that small business face. You must have the right financing in place when your company is skyrocketing. If not, you could find yourself unable to keep up with the pace of business due to insufficient funds.

The core principle of this trap is finding the right balance between perfectionism and cutting corners. Ensure your ventures have steady progress without damaging the reputation of your company. It’s up to you as an entrepreneur to establish what this balance looks like in practice!

Finding Qualified Talent in a Shrinking Labor Market

50% of business owners surveyed by CNBC stated that their biggest obstacle was finding quality labor.

This is a difficult number to reflect on, especially since most issues can’t be resolved without an efficient team who understands business objectives and are able to effectively collaborate together in order to meet them.

Attracting quality candidates is a troublesome task for 76% of hiring staff, and the cost of onboarding can consume an average budget with its whopping $4,000 price tag per new employee. In fact, if you have high turnover in your workforce due to failed recruitment efforts, all that money spent on acquiring talent becomes increasingly unwelcome.

Finding qualified candidates

As everyone knows, finding the right people for vacant positions has become more and more strenuous. The data suggests that in 2023 there will be an insufficiency of workers to fill job openings. With a current US unemployment rate of 3.7%, we have almost reached full employment! This goes to show you how necessary it is for your business not only to stand out from its competitors but also to convince these potential employees that this new opportunity is truly worth pursuing.

Increasing competition for qualified employees

From a marketing point of view, competition may be good for business. But when it comes to recruitment, the stakes are much higher. Recent evidence shows that hiring people has become increasingly competitive; you not only have to compete with your candidate’s current employer but also with other companies vying for similar talent as yourself.

Conclusion

While challenges continue to evolve, small business owners will have to stay ahead of the curve if they are to remain afloat and thrive in the 2023 economy. It’s important to keep an eye out for new trends that could impact your business in the future and be ready to adapt accordingly. Regardless of the challenges aside, with a well-planned strategy, businesses should still stand a chance of success. With the right mindset, you can look past even the toughest challenges and continue making progress toward your goals. No matter what challenges lie ahead, anything is possible with hard work and dedication!

Small business owners should always remember that every new challenge is an opportunity to grow and succeed. The challenges of 2023, are no exception. If faced with a proper strategy in place and can be overcome and used to our advantage.

If you have any more questions please contact one of our financial advisors today.

Are you a business owner? Do you know the ins and outs of the financials of your business? Knowing your business inside and out ensures your company runs smoothly and can grow.

If you are running a business, you will likely come across EBIT and EBITDA. These terms measure similar things, as they both refer to the profitability of your business. However, some slight differences allow them to estimate profitability in varied ways.

To help you know everything about these concepts, we’ll give you the full rundown, including what they are and how to calculate them. We’ll also tell you when to use them and which measurement is best.

What Is EBIT?

As mentioned earlier, EBIT is a way to measure your organization’s profitability. EBIT stands for Earnings Before Interest and Taxes. If you use EBIT, you will know how your business is operating without the interference of the money spent on taxes and paying off debt using our PPP loan forgiveness simplification.

EBIT is a key calculation because it shows how much your company earns from its production and sales. Knowing the productivity of your business is vital because it allows you to see how your business will run in the future. 

The EBIT score of your business is advantageous for you to know. However, investors will also be curious about your EBIT score, as your company profitability is crucial information to give someone looking to buy into it.

Many times, a company’s net income can be deceiving as taxes and debt change. It is vital to take away these factors and look purely at profitability for both business owners and investors.

EBIT Formula: How to Calculate

Calculating EBIT is simple. One way to calculate EBIT is to add your net income, interest, and taxes. You must add interest and tax costs to net income because those expenses are not related to productivity. 

Another way to calculate EBIT is to subtract your COGS (Cost of Goods Sold) and operating expenses from revenue. You need to subtract the cost of goods sold and operating expenses from your revenue because these expenses are related to productivity.

Cost of goods sold refers to the amount of money it takes to make your product, including the materials used. Operating expenses are costs like employee wages, the cost to repair machines, marketing, etc. 

The EBIT formula will look like this:

Net Income + Interest + Tax = EBIT

Revenue – COGS – Operating Expenses = EBIT

If you see that the EBIT formula yields different results when you try to calculate EBIT for your business, do not panic. These equations provide an estimate. You use different financial aspects for each, so you will likely get a slightly different number. 

EBITDA Meaning- What It Is

Like EBIT, EBITDA is another way to measure the profitability of your business. EBITDA stands for Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, and Depreciation and Amortization. 

Depreciation refers to the value of an asset over time. Usually, assets will decrease in value over time. Amortization is similar to depreciation. It refers to the cost of an asset over time. 

So, the EBITDA meaning is similar to EBIT but does not include money lost to depreciation and amortization. Some believe that using EBITDA as a measure gives an inaccurate depiction of a business’s profitability. If a firm has many fixed assets, not including depreciation in the calculation of earnings can create an inaccurate picture of their profits.

How to Calculate EBITDA

Calculating EBITDA is slightly more complicated than calculating your EBIT, but it is still relatively simple. Like EBIT, there are two principal ways to calculate EBITDA. 

The first way to calculate EBITDA is to add operating income and depreciation and amortization. Operating income refers to the earnings of a company after operating expenses.

The second way to calculate EBITDA is to add net income, taxes, interest expense, depreciation, and amortization.

EBITDA calculations will look like this:

Operating Income + Depreciation and Amoritization = EBITDA

Net Income + Taxes + Interest Expense + Depreciation and Amoritization = EBITDA

Like the EBIT equations, you may get different EBITDA values if you try each formula. Again, each is just a close estimate, and both numbers will give you an idea of the profitability of your business.

EBIT vs EBITDA: When to Use

Because EBIT and EBITDA are so similar, it is sometimes difficult to know when it is appropriate to use EBIT vs EBITDA. Generally, you can use either to measure the profitability of your business. You can also calculate them side by side and compare the numbers. Knowing the EBIT vs EBITDA margin is very helpful in seeing your profitability. 

If your company has fewer fixed assets, you may prefer using EBIT. On the other hand, a company with more fixed assets may favor EBITDA. Just as applying for a small business loan can affect your credit score, the number of fixed assets you have can help you determine whether EBIT or EBITDA is better for your business. 

However, as both calculations are crucial to determining profitability, you may want to look at both every so often. Each can tell you useful information about the operations of your business and including EBITDA and EBIT on income statements can help you apply for loans or receive tax breaks. 

EBIT vs EBITDA: Which Is Better

While it is hard to say which is better overall in the competition of EBIT vs EBITDA, different people prefer them for varied purposes. However, some believe that EBITDA inaccurately portrays companies’ profitability because it adds back depreciation.

If a company operates with many fixed assets, it can make them look like they are doing better than they are. So, some investors prefer the EBIT measure for that reason. 

That said, companies with more fixed assets may prefer EBITDA as a measure because their numbers will likely be better. So, although some investors do not like it, EBITDA is generally preferred by business owners.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, you better understand EBIT and EBITDA and how these calculations can help your business. Neither measure is superior, but both can be important for evaluating business productivity.

Although these values can be significant, there are other essential calculations to determine the success of your business. Your EBIT or EBITDA result will not make or break your profits; they’re just helpful tools that can allow you to see what you need to work on to make your company a success. 

As a small business owner, you may be wondering if your employee retention tax credit (ERTC) plan is working as effectively as it could be. Fortunately, there are ways to analyze the effectiveness of your ERTC plan and make changes as necessary. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to assess the effectiveness of your ERTC plan and make improvements accordingly. Whether you’re just starting out with an ERTC plan or have had one in place for years, this information will be valuable in ensuring that your plan is working as effectively as possible.

Why You Should Make Up an ERTC Plan

Making an ERTC plan is one of the best ways to protect your finances in the event of unforeseen expenses. An ERTC plan gives you a financial cushion that can help cover costs from unexpected events such as job loss, medical bills, or home repairs. This type of planning ensures you have a backup plan should you find yourself unable to meet your financial obligations for any reason. Rather than using high-interest credit cards or borrowing money, it’s better to create an ERTC plan so you are well-prepared for anything that happens in the future. With careful planning and budgeting, having an ERTC plan in place can give you peace of mind knowing you have taken steps to secure your own financial well-being.

The employee retention credit deadline for the ERTC is set for December 31st, 2023. If your business wants to benefit from this important program before the end of 2023, it’s essential to analyze your ERTC plan now.

How to Know That Your ERTC Plan Is Effective

An effective ERTC plan should be designed with your company’s specific needs in mind. Once the plan is implemented, analyzing its performance regularly is key to determining whether it is truly effective. Ask yourself questions about the impact the plan has had on employee engagement, satisfaction, and morale. Review any survey feedback you may have gathered from employees to find out how your ERTC benefits are being used and valued. It’s also important to track participation rates within the plan so that you can determine if adjustments need to be made to increase enrollment and ongoing commitments from employees. Finally, analyzing costs associated with your ERTC will help you determine whether it’s providing an effective return on your investment.

When analyzing your ERTC plan, there are a few factors you should consider. The first is how much money you have set aside as part of the plan. This will depend on your specific circumstances and financial situation. You also need to consider how often you make deposits into the account and if this is enough to meet your needs when needed. Another important factor is how much interest you are earning from the account. It’s worth looking for higher-yielding accounts that can provide more return on investment for the same amount of money.

Finally, it’s essential to be aware of the employee retention credit deadline 2023 so that you don’t miss out on this opportunity. Although the ERTC plan is a great way to save for the future, taking advantage of this credit could be an even better option.

Based on the feedback, make changes to the ERTC plan accordingly

After receiving feedback from employees on how to improve the ERTC plan, steps were taken to make necessary adjustments. A new web page was added to the company website which summarizes how an employee can check their ERTC credit balance, how they decide what expenses are eligible for reimbursement, and how they can submit a claim. The Employee Relations Team also created new helpful resources such as job aides and how-to videos that explain how to use the ERTC plan with clear instructions that save time by avoiding any confusion while providing helpful tips on how employees can maximize their benefits. These changes should greatly enhance how employees use the ERTC plan and enable them to receive their reimbursements promptly.

Regular review is essential to ensuring the success of any employee retention program, so stay ahead of the employee retention credit deadline 2023 by analyzing the performance of your ERTC plan now. You may find that some adjustments need to be made, but with careful planning and thoughtful changes, you can create an ERTC plan that provides lasting benefits for your business and employees. Taking the time to review and analyze your ERTC plan can result in greater financial security for both you and your employees.  ­­­­­­­

Evaluate the effectiveness of the new ERTC plan after 6 months or 1 year

After six months or one year, it is clear to see that the new ERTC plan has been successful. The plan was developed to increase public participation, simplify reporting and enhance transparency as outlined in its core goals, and it is clear to see that these have been met and even surpassed. Companies have reported finding it easier to access government funding despite the further implementation of stricter grant guidelines. Additionally, citizens feel included in their local government’s decision-making process due to increased accessibility regarding meetings and legislation discussions. After an initial trial period, the success of the plan is undeniable, but continuous evaluation must be conducted going forward to ensure long-term benefits continue to be achieved.

Conclusion

Analyzing an ERTC Plan is a critical step for businesses that want to take full advantage of the employee retention credit before the 2023 deadline. By regularly analyzing your plan and consulting with a qualified tax professional, you can ensure that you’re getting all of the benefits available from this important program. Additionally, checking your credit status will help make sure that you don’t miss out on any credits or other opportunities provided by the employee retention credit. Taking these steps now can give your business peace of mind knowing that it’s taking full advantage of what this valuable program has to offer before time runs out in 2023!

*This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult with your accountant in regards to applicable tax credits for your business.

When it comes to individual and small business financing, microloans are all the rage these days. From funding a start-up to helping with business growth expenses, microloans have many functions that make them an attractive option for borrowers.

We are here to discuss everything you need to know about microloans. We will explain what is a microloan; we’ll also talk about eligibility and application requirements, microloan advantages and disadvantages, and where you can apply. Read on to learn more about microlending and how it can benefit you.

What Is a Microloan and What Can a Microloan Be Used For?

A microloan is a small loan, usually for a small business including LLCs, that funds business expenses. Microloans generally include loans up to $50,000, although some lenders have higher thresholds for what they consider microlending.

Interest rates on microloans tend to be low, although you may find microloans with higher interest rates. Additionally, the repayment terms of microloans tend to be short, anywhere from three to six years.

You can use microloans to fund any expenses that will help your business start or grow. This funding can include anything from new equipment to building expenses to manufacturing costs. If you want to start, reopen, augment, or improve your business, you can use microloans for just about any expenses.

Terms and Rates of SBA Microloans

One of the most popular types of microloans is the Small Business Administration (SBA) microloan. Nonprofit, community-based agencies administer these microloans, providing technical assistance and management in business growth and development along with funds.

The repayment terms of SBA microloans depend on lender requirements, the amount borrowed, and business needs. Borrowers can pay back SBA microloans over a few years, with a six-year maximum cap on repayment.

Interest rates for SBA microloans vary, dependent upon the community-based agencies administering the loans. If you borrow under the SBA microlending program, expect an interest rate between 8% and 13%.

Microloan Eligibility Requirements

Now that you know exactly what is a microloan, let’s explore eligibility requirements. There are varying eligibility requirements for microloans, dependent upon the lender or intermediary administering institution. In general, the following eligibility requirements tend to exist for microloans across lenders and intermediaries.

Small Business

First, lenders tend to reserve microloans for small businesses. So, you need to own a for-profit business, and it must meet eligibility requirements to be categorized as small by the SBA.

Credit Score

In addition to business size, lenders and intermediaries also set eligibility requirements around credit. Generally, lenders or intermediaries are looking for average credit or better to qualify a business as eligible for a microloan. Average credit usually includes any credit score of 575 or higher.

A low credit score does not necessarily disqualify a business from receiving a microloan. Other application elements, like high revenue or a co-signer, can make up for a lower-than-average credit score.

Loan Payback

Another vital eligibility requirement is the ability to pay back your microloan. You will likely need to submit a business plan demonstrating you have enough cash flow or high enough projected revenue to repay the loan.

Collateral

Businesses also need collateral or a personal guarantee to qualify for microloans. Business assets like equipment or real estate, or personal assets like a car or home are the most common collateral used to secure a microloan. This requirement makes microloans different from the unsecured guarantor loans to which small businesses sometimes turn for financing.

Good Character

Finally, most lenders and intermediaries require borrowers to show good character to qualify for a microloan. You can demonstrate good character by showing no criminal history for crimes like burglary, fraud, or theft.

Best Practices When Applying for a Microloan

As you put your application together for a microloan, there are a few best practice tips to follow.

Application Requirements

First, be sure to read the eligibility and application requirements thoroughly. It is vital that you not miss any application elements or fail any eligibility requirements if you want your application to be successful.

Business Plan Preparation

Second, prepare a detailed business plan that shows exactly how you will spend microloan funds and how they will help your business start, grow, or improve. Be sure you know your business numbers inside and out; microlenders want to see that you understand your value and that they are investing well.

Interview Preparation

Finally, prepare and practice for your interview. Be ready to highlight all your business’s strengths and explain any deficiencies or weaknesses in your application. It never hurts to practice interviewing with a friend or colleague to be sure your interview goes as well as possible.

Where to Apply for Microloans in 2023 & Microloan Examples

In 2023, there are many places you can apply for a microloan. Some of the most attractive microloan examples for borrowers include the following.

SBA Microloans

Perhaps the most commonly used microlending program, SBA microloans targets businesses that may not receive stellar service from traditional lenders. These loans prioritize women, low-income, minority, and veteran business owners. You can apply for these microloans through an intermediary institution. Find your local intermediary on SBA’s list of lenders.

Accion Opportunity Fund

The Accion Opportunity Fund provides microloans up to $100,000 for minority borrowers, along with coaching, support, and technical assistance from peer business advisors. You can apply for this type of microloan on Accion Opportunity Fund’s small business loans webpage.

Kiva

If you are looking for the best interest rate available, you may want to turn to Kiva, which offers microloans at 0% interest. Kiva uses the power of crowdfunding to keep its loans at this null rate. Visit Kiva’s borrowing page to start your microloan application today.

Alternatives to SBA Microloans

While many borrowers turn to the SBA for microlending, there are many alternatives to SBA microloans. Two of the options mentioned above, the Accion Opportunity Fund and Kiva, are great alternatives to a traditional SBA microloan.

Venture Capital Firms

In addition to these lenders, start-ups and small businesses may turn to venture capital firms for microloans. Venture capital firms exist to provide funding for innovative businesses and ideas. Many of these firms offer financing in the form of microloans to fund start-up or growth expenses for new or expanding businesses.

Local Banks

Finally, you may be able to turn to your local bank to find an SBA microloan alternative. More and more banks are investing in small business borrowers through microlending, making this an excellent SBA alternative.

Wrap-up

If before you were wondering what is a microloan, now you know that it can help your small business start, grow, or improve. These small loans with low-interest rates and short repayment terms are often ideal financing options for small businesses looking to enhance their offerings and revenue.

There are many microlending options in 2023 and plenty of places to apply, including the SBA, nonprofits, and venture capital firms. Follow the tips in this article to get started on your microloan application today.

Understanding the difference between a payment gateway vs. payment processor can be challenging. While they both can do the same functions, they are two different platforms for taking payments. Understanding the differences between the two and how they work together is essential, so we have broken them down for you. 

What Is a Payment Processor?

On a basic level, a payment processor is an entity that oversees the entire transaction process from start to finish. It handles the transmission of a credit card transaction between a customer’s bank and the merchant’s financial institution once the transaction has been approved. It also handles the backend finalization of a credit card transaction.

What Is a Payment Gateway? 

A payment gateway is a technology that securely transmits customer payment data to various entities throughout the payment process. The payment gateway will send encrypted payment data to both the issuing and acquiring banks. The gateway will then return the approval or denial of the transaction.

Payment gateway technology can be used with traditional brick-and-mortar customers with point-of-sale systems (POS), online-only businesses, or those who use both channels.

Payment Gateway Encryption

Payment gateways are required to protect data using PCI standards set by the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). PCI DSS is used for brick-and-mortar and online shops using payment gateways. 

The four different methods used to secure data are:

1. Data Encryption
2. Secure Socket Layer (SSL)
3. Secure Electronic Transaction (SET)
4. Tokenization

Payment Gateway vs. Payment Processor: Similarities and Differences 

Similarities

Depending on the platform, a payment gateway and a payment processor can communicate with the customer’s bank and the merchant’s financial institution during the transaction process and when reconciling a batch with all the individual transactions for a particular business date.

Differences

What’s the difference between a payment gateway and payment processor? A gateway is typically the technology used to handle the acceptance of a payment by a customer. It is called a gateway because it is the first and last stop for a transaction. It takes the payment from the customer, ensures the payment is securely encrypted and transmitted to the payment processor, waits for the payment processor to handle everything in between, and then tells the customer if their transaction is approved or denied. 

A payment processor handles everything in between, as it is the mediator between the customer’s bank and the merchant’s financial institution. The payment processor handles all the logistics behind processing the card during and after the initial transaction. It communicates between the two institutions during the transaction and then handles the final processing of the transactions after the fact.

How They Work Together

A payment gateway and payment processor work together to ensure you can take payments from your customers securely and conveniently. When a customer runs a transaction, the payment gateway securely collects and sends the payment data to the merchant’s payment processing vendor. 

The payment processor then acts as the mediator between the merchant’s financial institution and the customer’s bank. The payment gateway then sends back the response to the customer. The payment processor will then reconcile the whole batch of transactions for the date of business in question.

Putting It All Together

Here are the five steps a payment gateway and payment takes from start to finish: 

1. A customer buys an item from a merchant through their online shop using a secured cart.
2. The payment gateway encrypts the payment data and securely transmits it to the payment processor. 
3. The payment processor handles the communication between financial institutions and receives a response.
4. The payment gateway then returns a response from the payment network. This information will determine if the customer’s payment was invalid or valid. If the customer’s payment is not valid, it will prompt them to pay with a different payment method. If the customer’s payment is valid, it allows the customer to complete the order.
5. The payment processor will complete the transaction at the end of the business day.

Is PayPal a Payment Gateway or Processor? 

PayPal can be a gateway, a processor, or both, depending on how you use their services. For instance, PayPal’s Commerce Platform service is an all-in-one payment gateway and processor package. If you are looking for just a payment gateway, then their Payflow service is a secure, PCI-compliant platform compatible with most online shopping carts that take over 25 different currencies. 

Is Stripe a Payment Gateway or Processor?

Stripe is both a payment gateway and a processor. You can also set up recurring payments from clients. Therefore, you won’t need any other solution if you decide to work with Stripe.

How to Pick Your Payment Gateway and Payment Processing Provider 

Do you need a payment gateway and a payment processor? Yes, you need both. So, you need to know how to pick these two service providers. 

Not all payment gateway and payment processing providers are built the same, just like not all businesses have the exact payment processing needs. Just because one payment processor works for a business doesn’t mean it will work for you, so you must first ask yourself several key questions to understand which platform is right for you and your business.

Here are the top ten questions you should ask yourself when picking a provider:

1. Do I want an all-in-one solution or individual platforms?
2. Do I need to integrate different payment methods now or in the future?
3. Will I need to take payments from international customers and take multiple currencies?
4. What type of service account can my business handle? For instance, can I pay monthly fees, variable fees, fixed fees per transaction, etc… 
5. Am I a new or growing business that needs extra support?
6. Will I be taking high-volume or high-value transactions?
7. Do I need extensive reporting or data?
8. Do I need my payment platform to be portable? 
9. Who offers me the best PCI compliance support?

Top Payment Processors In 2023

• PayPal: Best one-stop-shop provider
• Stripe: Best overall payment processor
• Square: Best for new/growing businesses
• Chase Payment Solutions: Best for online businesses
• Clover: Best for traditional point-of-sale systems
• Stax: Best for high-volume businesses

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between a payment gateway vs. payment processor can confuse you, but after reading this guide, you are now an expert! You now understand their differences and similarities and how they can work together to accomplish payment processing. We have also provided you with the six best payment processors in 2023 to make payment processes work for your specific situation.

You may have heard of CDFI loans, but you may not know what they are or how they can benefit your business. So, what is a CDFI loan? It is offered by Community Development Finance Institutions or CDFIs. They serve about 84% of low-income earning individuals, so the loans act as capital for existing businesses. 

CDFi loans offer low-interest rates, flexible repayment terms, and no prepayment penalties. The application process is also quick and easy, reflecting the unique challenges that small businesses face. Keep reading to learn more about what a CDFI loan is, its pros and cons, and how to apply for one.

Types of Loans Offered By CDFIs

There are a variety of loans offered by CDFIs, including:

• Start-Up 
• Expansion 
• Working capital 
• Real estate 
• Recovery and relief 

Each type of loan has its unique benefits, and it’s essential to choose a program that is best suited for your business or other community development projects.

Contact a CDFI lender in your area to learn more about the loans they offer.

CDFI Loan Requirements?

Your business must meet specific requirements to be eligible for a CDFI loan.

The location of the business should be in a low-income or distressed community. You also need to be engaged in sustainable economic development activities, such as job creation, employee training, or the promotion of entrepreneurship.

Your business should have a strong credit history and be able to repay the loan on time. CDFI loans are typically unavailable to businesses in financial difficulty.

How To Apply for a CDFI Loan?

To apply for a CDFI certification, you must provide the lender with basic information about your business. These details include your company name, address, contact information, and years in business.

Also, you need to provide documentation of the business’ financials, such as the most recent income tax return and balance sheet.

The lender will review the application and, if approved, give you the chance to discuss and create a repayment plan that fits your business needs.

How Can a CDFI Loan Benefit Your Business?

A CDFI loan can benefit your business in several ways.

Affordability

CDFI loans are more affordable than traditional options. In addition, they offer lower interest rates and longer repayment terms, which can help to manage your cash flow.

Availability

CDFI loans are available to businesses of all sizes, including startups and minority-owned ventures, which often have difficulty securing funding from traditional lenders.

Government Owned

With backup from the government, CDFI loan repayment guarantees you the confidence to invest in your business without worrying about the possibility of default.

What Are the Terms of a CDFI Loan?

The terms of a CDFI loan are more favorable than traditional bank loans, and the application process is more straightforward.

Private investors fund CDFI loans, so you don’t have to go through a bank for loan processing. This approach means obtaining a loan for business growth and expansion is relatively easy, and you won’t be required to deal with red tape and long wait times.

Where Can You Find a CDFI Lender?

Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are the lenders that offer loans to support small businesses financially. Most of these are government-owned and accessible in many areas, especially low-income ones.

You can find a list of CDFI lenders on the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund website.

CDFI Loans Pros and Cons for Small Businesses

So, is a CDFI loan right for you? Only you can decide that. But it’s essential to weigh all the pros and cons before deciding.

Pros

When it comes to pros, CDFI loans are particularly advantageous due to their low-interest rates, straightforward approval, and relatively few risks.

Low-Interest Rates

CDFIs offer low-interest rates to small businesses and a flexible repayment period. Smaller businesses can thus be better equipped to grow without the strain of dealing with an unfavorable loan.

Easy Approval

Loan approval requirements are accessible, unlike other institutions such as banks.

Minimal Risks

A CDFI loan offers a fixed interest rate. Customers know what they have to pay, so don’t have to navigate uncertainty for this source of financing.

Cons

While CDFI loans can be beneficial, there are a few cons.

Long Application Process

CDFIs have fewer assets; hence, the loan application process takes longer than banks.

Limited Availability

You may not be eligible for the subsidy if you don’t live in a target area.

What Is the Difference Between a Bank and a CDFI?

A bank is a profit-making institution in the business of making money. A CDFI, on the other hand, is a nonprofit organization focused on helping small businesses and low-income communities.

There are many types of CDFIs, but they are all mission-driven organizations offering various products and services. For example, they can provide you with a lower interest rate on your loan, help you find funding for your business, and give you technical assistance and training.

Some CDFIs participate in the SBA small business loan program. 

If you’re wondering how to become a CDFI, a business needs to apply to the CDFI Fund and meet specific criteria. What is the benefit of being a CDFI? Well, CDFI certification opens up the door to government funding from the US Treasury Department. 

What Are Some of CDFIs Success Stories

Many smaller businesses struggle to get traditional loans, so it’s unsurprising there are plenty of success stories involving CDFI loans. These businesses received the financing necessary to grow, including: 

• A manufacturing company that used a CDFI loan to purchase new equipment, allowing them to increase their productivity and create more jobs.
• A woman-owned construction company that used a CDFI loan to expand their business, hire more employees, and purchase new equipment.
• A small grocery store that used a CDFI loan to renovate and increase their inventory.

Conclusion

Now you have the answer to the question “what is a CDFI loan?” This kind of loan can be an excellent way for small businesses to get the financing they need to grow and expand.

These loans are for businesses from underserved areas or within specific categories, such as companies owned by women and minorities. If you’re looking for a loan to help your business reach its full potential, a CDFI loan could be the perfect option.

If you own a business, it is crucial to have good credit. You need good credit to take out loans and work with other businesses. Additionally, you should try to only work with companies and vendors with good credit. As a result, you must know how to run a business credit check.

Before you start working with a new company, you should perform a business credit check on them. Additionally, it is important to periodically perform business credit checks on your business. By doing so, you can address or dispute sections of your business’s credit profile.

Why Monitoring Your Own Business Credit Profile Is Important

Knowing how to run a business credit check on your company is more important than performing them on other businesses. If you find that a company you considered working with has bad credit, you can drop them and work with someone else. However, if the credit check on your business is poor, you will lose business with most other companies.

The most significant reason to learn how to run a business credit check on your company is so that you can get financing from banks. Banks are unlikely to extend lines of credit to businesses or people with bad credit. If they do, they will demand a higher interest rate. Suppliers will run the same checks before extending lines of credit to your company.

Another thing to consider is that customers often check credit ratings to assess the long-term health of your company. Not only will this affect the number of sales you get, but it will affect the price of your stocks in the market.

What Score Do You Need for Business Credit?

To answer this question, we must first address the scale on which business credit scores are assessed. Business credit scores range from 0 to 100. Small and large companies use the same scale.

Most small business lending companies require a minimum credit score of 75. However, 75 is just the cutoff, and many companies prefer higher scores. So, the better your business credit score, the better interest rates you will get on your lines of credit.

When Should Your Business Perform a Credit Check?

You should always run a credit check on a company before you enter business with them. By checking their credit, you can see if any red flags pop up that will cause you to question the partnership. Additionally, it will let you assess risk, determine payment patterns, and identify potential conflicts of interest. You should avoid working with businesses with bad credit because they can bring your company down with them.

As for performing credit checks on your business, there is no set rule for how often you should do them. Performing them at the end of each quarter is smart because you can see if anything changed. You can then reassess and make adjustments so that your business is more successful in the next part of the year.

Additionally, you should perform a credit check on your business before and after you make any significant change to your business. For example, opening up a new location or branch could have a significant effect on your business’s credit profile. You need to know if the changes were good or bad.

What Information Will You Need to Check Your Score?

To learn how to run a business credit check, you need access to all your company’s financial reports. Your best option is to pay for a business credit report online. Several providers let you see your company’s credit score.

Additionally, when you subscribe to one of these packages, they will provide advice on how to improve your company’s credit score. 

Unfortunately, most packages require that you pay a fee, but are there any free options for checking a business credit score? Yes, there are a few free options, but they usually provide less information to users.

How to Run Your Business Credit Check

The first step is to register your business with a business credit reporting bureau. You must select a membership level. The higher the level, the more thorough the report you will get. Once you register online, confirm your account, and pay the fee, you can immediately request a credit check for your business.

After requesting a credit check, you must input various financial and business information. Depending on how thorough a report you requested, it may take a long time to enter all of this information. As a result, it is smart to get your financial reports in order before requesting a credit check.

Depending on the company, it may take varying amounts of time to perform the check. You will receive an email alert when the report is ready to view. You will receive a score ranging from 1 to 100.

A score above 75 means the company pays all bills on time. Conversely, a score below 30 indicates your company is likely to file for bankruptcy. 

What Factors Affect a Business Credit Check?

Several factors affect business credit scores. The most important is the financial reliability of your company. If your company consistently pays its bills, it will likely receive a high credit score.

Red Flag Alert’s Business Credit Reporting 

Red Flag Alert is a company that has worked for 15 years to provide extensive business credit checks with solutions for bad credit scores. They use a credit checking system that makes it easy for you to see how much trouble your business is in.

Any company with a red flag has a chance of falling into insolvency. Sixty percent of companies with three red flags will fall into insolvency within seven days.

Red Flag Alert is a popular option because it provides specific company credit check scores, solutions, and the best course of action for your company.

Final Thoughts

If you own a business, you should learn how to run a business credit check. You should be able to perform checks on your business and all companies you plan to work with. Doing so will help you in the short and long term.

Receivable financing is when a business receives funding based on its invoices. It is a tool used by many companies to help them survive dry periods between payments. 

Receivable financing is essential because not all clients pay immediately upon the completion of services. Some only pay on a set schedule, and as a result, you could be waiting for their payment for up to 90 days. Even when clients pay on time, delays can cause problems with cash flow. Receivable financing is a tool to support businesses with cash flow issues.

Why Consider Receivable Financing for Business

Large businesses do not need to worry about late payments. If there is a late payment, they can handle the short-term loss of income. Additionally, if a business fails to make a payment, they have large teams of lawyers to get their money. Unfortunately, small businesses do not have the same luxury.

Small business owners are often victims of late and missing payments. While it is not the fault of the small business owner when a payment is late, they need to prepare for these scenarios.

Unfortunately, it is challenging for small businesses to acquire traditional loans from banks. Most of these loans require collateral that small companies do not have. As a result, receivable financing is the best option for small businesses.

Receivable financing can provide small business owners with solutions to short-term cash flow gaps. You can use this money to pay bills while waiting to pay invoices. Additionally, you can use it to expand more rapidly so that you can make more money in the future.

How Receivables Loan Works

A receivables loan is a revolving line of credit similar to what you have with a credit card. It is an extended line of credit you can borrow against at any time. Small business owners can use this money to pay for inventory, employees, or expansion. Owners can also use a receivable loan when small businesses face short-term cash flow problems.

What Are the Four Common Forms of Receivable Financing?

Receivable financing can come in four common forms. The most common form is traditional factoring. This type of receivable financing has the borrower sell their receivables to a factoring establishment, and that establishment then sells them at a lower price. The price is dependent on the quality of the receivables. Unfortunately, this method can be expensive because of all the extra fees. So, you should only use factoring when 100% necessary.

Asset-backed securities are another type of receivable financing often used by larger businesses. A fixed-income channel supplies coupon-based payments by taking money from clusters of underlying assets. Usually, people or companies will receive funding with their mortgage as the main asset. 

Accounts receivable loans are good options for small businesses with short-term cash flow issues. This method allows companies to receive 80% of the current value of their pending receivables. Using this method, the borrower is not at risk because they only use money another owes them. If the company has not paid you the money they owe, the bank will instead go after the company or person who failed to make the payment.

Finally, selective receivable funding is an option for businesses. With this method, companies can receive full payment on their outstanding invoices immediately. Financing rates are usually lower with this method because it does not appear on the balance sheet. Additionally, this method does not affect the company’s other debts.

Factoring Vs Receivable Financing

While there are several types of receivable financing, it mostly comes down to whether you should use factoring or receivable financing. Factoring is the more expensive of the two options, but it is easier to acquire. Established businesses with a long history of good credit and cash flow are the only entities that can obtain receivable financing. As a result, factoring is a good option for new companies that still need to establish their finances. 

Benefits of Receivable Financing

Receivable financing is one of the best options available to businesses with short-term cash flow issues. It can help your business get through periods when payments are late or absent. Notably, there are several great benefits of receivable financing. 

Receivable financing can be quickly approved, and as a result, you can receive the funding quickly. Additionally, you do not need collateral to receive this type of financing, and you do not need to do much paperwork.

Furthermore, this type of financing is very flexible, so you can choose the time at which you receive your funding. So, you can use receivable financing to smooth out your cash flow over time.

How to Get Receivable Financing in 2023

So, how does receivables financing work, and how can you get it in 2023? First, you must meet specific requirements. You must own a B2B or B2G business that has been running for at least six months. That business must have a minimum of $50,000 in annual business revenue, creditworthy customers, and outstanding receivables.

If you meet these requirements, you must collect all essential financial documents. Then, you should choose the type of receivables to finance and submit your accounts to a financing application. Depending on the state of your business and its credit, you will receive a receivable advance. Finally, you will need to pay back what was lent to you once your customer pays their invoice.

Receivables Financing Companies in 2023

To get receivable financing, you must apply to a company that supplies it. Fortunately, there are several great receivable financing companies available in 2023. Some good options include FundThrough, First Commercial Credit, Crestmark, Universal Funding Corporation, and Lendio. Each provides high advance rates for companies in need of quick personal business loans.

Final Thoughts

Receivable financing is necessary for many small businesses to survive. Small businesses cannot afford to have a lull in cash flow when dealing with late invoice payments. Fortunately, receivable financing can provide short-term financial relief to companies in need.

Launching and operating a business is no easy task. The main reason businesses fail is due to a lack of funding or available capital. Financial strain can also contribute to burnout, driving many entrepreneurs out of the market.

However, many business owners are unfamiliar with available financing resources that can save their organizations in moments of hardship. We have researched and assembled the best same-day business loans to help you finance your entrepreneurial dream. With this guide, you can identify the best same-day business grant for your company and ease your financial stress.

What Is a Same-Day Business Loan?

Most small business loans take months to process. For organizations facing financial hardship, this can be a prohibitive factor in applying for grants.

Same-day business loans provide emergency funding that appears in your business account within 24 hours. These loans are suitable for urgent matters and small projects and are typically ineligible for large-scale and long-term endeavors. Same-day business loans generally have looser credit requirements, making the application process efficient and easy.

Additionally, same-day loans tend to have higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms than traditional loans.

There are eight types of same-day business loans that you can obtain for your business.

Term Loan

Businesses typically acquire term loans for business-related investments and repay them at a regular rate over a set period of time.

Term loans have few credit and application requirements and are available within 1-3 business days. We award term loans to businesses older than three months.

Repayment terms range from six months to ten years, and you can work with an advisor to lower interest rates depending on your needs.

Business Line of Credit

A business line of credit (LOC) offers financing with flexibility, so you qualify for an amount and only borrow what you need. LOCs are suitable for short-term needs like buying inventory or covering payroll and offer similar benefits as term loans; you can borrow between $10,000 and $5 million and repay within six months up to 10 years.

Equipment Financing

Equipment financing refers to loans awarded for specific tools or machinery you need for your business. The amount you receive depends on the price of the item you need, but funds range between $10,000 and $5 million. Businesses typically receive funds within two to five business days, and repayment terms vary between one and five years.

SBA Loan

SBA loans, or loans guaranteed by the Small Business Association, are protected loans for small businesses that generally cover growth expenses or working capital. Loan amounts vary from $10,000 to $5 million. Most SBA loans are available within 45 days, and repayment terms range from 10-25 years.

Accounts Receivable Financing

Accounts Receivable (AR) financing is a type of loan that enables companies to receive funds related to a fraction of their accounts receivable. You can turn accounts receivable into the capital from $10,000 to $5 million without notifying customers.

Businesses receive AR funds between two and five days, and repayment terms lie between six months and ten years.

Asset-Based Loan

Financiers award asset-based loans for large-scale investments or projects. Asset-based loans appear within 1-3 business days and are backed by assets and range between $10,000 and $5 million, with repayment terms between six months and ten years.

Franchise Financing

Franchise Financing is usually available for franchise fees and start-up costs. Funds arrive within 2-7 business days and range between $10,000 and $5 million, with repayment terms from six months to ten years.

Merchant Cash Advance

A Merchant Cash Advance is an alternative financing service that provides small businesses with lump sum funds between $5,000 and $10,000. This flexible financing option does not require collateral, and repayment terms lie between six months and ten years. MCAs are more flexible and specific to a business’s needs than traditional loans.

Why a Same Day Business Loan?

Same-day funds can relieve urgent financial pressure; they are quick, easy loans available same day.

Same-day business loans are best for organizations facing emergencies that require financial solutions. Because same-day loans typically have fewer eligibility requirements than long-term loans and grants, they are ideal for those who may not meet the traditional criteria.

Additionally, same-day loans often offer less capital than long-term loans, so they are best for small projects and most suitable for small and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs.

The Pros and Cons of Same Day Business Loans

While quick and easy loans same day is relatively simple, there are several important factors to consider before applying.

The Benefits of Same Day Business Loans

Same-day business loans are fast and accessible. Flexible eligibility criteria and low credit requirements accommodate otherwise ineligible applicants, and funds appear within 24 hours.

Leading providers typically offer financing services, from credit lines to term loans. The application process is often more accessible and efficient than more significant, long-term loans.

The Drawbacks of Same Day Business Loans

Same-day business loans can entail several drawbacks. First, the amount of funding is typically lower than that of traditional loans. Additionally, same-day loans may have higher interest rates and shorter repayment periods. Some loans may also have monthly revenue requirements.

Lastly, same-day loans are not conducive to larger projects and are occasionally unavailable in certain states and industries.

Same Day Business Loan Rates

Most same-day business loans offer between $5,000 to $400,000 in capital though some may offer up to $3,000,000. In contrast, we offer loans up to $5 million to accommodate your needs.

Interest rates typically range between 4.80% to 29.90% on average and sometimes appear as factor rates, representing the percentage of a loan expressed as a decimal figure.

Alternative to Same-Day Business Loans

Other financing options present different benefits and drawbacks. For example, small businesses like restaurants and entrepreneurs have several different funding options.

Below are several examples of alternative loans.

Startup Funding

Startup Business Funding is a startup loan (often available the same day) for entrepreneurs and new businesses to acquire the capital they need to grow.

Credit Card Processing

Credit card processing is a financial service that helps businesses to lower credit card processing fees and save funds to allocate them elsewhere.

Fix N Flip Loans

Fix N Flip loans suit real estate developers, investors, and builders. This loan allows you to finance rehab purchases and obtain fast funding to pay for your projects.

How Fast Can You Get Approved for a Business Loan in 2023?

Nowadays, some business loans are available within several hours. Most lenders require 24 hours to accept, process, and provide the loan, but alternative lenders are increasingly speeding up the process, and you can obtain a loan within hours of your application.

How To Get a Business Loan in 24 Hours

Obtaining a same-day business loan in 24 hours is relatively simple. First, find a financial service provider or willing lender. Then, gather any information and documents you may need, including your identification, EIN, credit score, and bank statements.

Follow the 15-second application process and enter your personal information. You will meet with an advisor to evaluate your options. Choose a loan and await approval within the next few hours. If approved, you will receive your funds within 24 hours.

Before You Go

If you have decided to obtain a same-day business loan or are interested in doing so in the future, contact our financial service experts. The application process takes only 15 seconds, and you will meet with a dedicated Business Financing Advisor as soon as possible to help you decide on the best same-day business loan to meet your needs.

Your business-and your wallet-will surely benefit.

Shifting to solar energy can be a great environmentally-friendly investment for your business. It can lead to benefits such as significant tax credits and opportunities to reduce costs. Since solar energy is eco-friendly, it’ll serve to attract workers and clients. However, even with such benefits, solar energy isn’t suitable for every small business. 

So, how do you know if you should use solar to power your small business? There’s no universal answer. There’s no one answer to how much cash a business should have on hand. It depends on specific factors related to the business. To know if using solar is right for you, you need to examine its benefits and disadvantages. Keep reading to learn more about solar energy pros and cons.

Should Your Business Invest in Solar?

You might be wondering, should your business invest in solar? Before answering that question, you first need to understand solar energy. So, how does solar energy work? As a source of energy, solar energy is helpful in lighting, heating, and cooling businesses and homes. There are different solar technologies that people use.

The most common one is solar photovoltaic technology. It transforms sunlight into electricity. Others are passive solar technology and solar water heating. The first one warms places during winter. The latter provides hot water. Solar has many advantages, but that doesn’t mean it suits all businesses. Some of these benefits are:

• It limits operating costs
• Having the reputation of being environmentally conscious acts as an efficient marketing tool
• It’s a low-risk investment 
• It’s low-maintenance

However, solar energy also has its disadvantages. Setting it up may be costly, and you need to stay in one place for a long time to reap the benefits. To know whether you should invest in it or not, weigh the solar energy pros and cons.

Solar Power Benefits for Your Small Businesses

The demand for electric power is continuously increasing. With the high cost of oil, most people and businesses are now turning to solar energy. In the United States, it’s common to see companies installing solar panels for their energy needs.

The benefits of solar energy are numerous. For one, it reduces your business’s dependence on non-renewable sources of energy. It is also quite cost-effective. Another reason why solar energy is a popular choice is its sustainability. That quality also serves to draw in clients. 

Customers come to your business for the goods and services you offer. However, using solar energy will attract them to your organization, where they can make a purchase. Using solar informs others of your values and works as a great PR tool. 

The Pros of Solar Energy 

As mentioned earlier, you need complete information before choosing whether to use solar. As a business owner, you may wonder just how good is solar power. To answer that, here are some advantages of solar energy for your business.

Lower Operating Costs

When you shift to solar energy, you’ll see a significant reduction in your energy cost. That’s because when you use solar, you harness your own electricity. Thus, you can eliminate a significant part of your electric bill. When moving to solar energy, the initial investment can be higher than that of conventional energy sources.

However, installing solar panels is a long-term investment. What you save in energy costs can cover the high investment cost over the years. Eventually, you’ll reach a point of continued cost savings. Also, solar panels last for many years, meaning you’ll reap the benefits for a long time. 

It Safeguards You From Increasing Electricity Costs

The price of electricity is almost certain to rise over the years. With solar, you can protect your business from the increase in rates. 

Another benefit of solar is that you may generate surplus energy and sell it. If that happens, you can enjoy more income. It’s also a way of giving back to your community.

Tax Incentives

Solar energy is beneficial for the environment, and the government appreciates that. They want more firms to turn to solar. Thus, they provide businesses with tax-saving incentives. Examples of the incentives include the Solar Investment Tax Credit and the 100% bonus depreciation.

It Enhances the Value of Your Business

Many customers and employees care about the sustainability of a business. So, sustainable practices like solar energy will attract both groups. Thus, you might want to include the use of solar in your marketing strategy.

In addition, if you have surplus energy that you sell to your community, it will create a good image. It can also help you develop a good relationship with them. There are many ways in which your relationships today can create opportunities for tomorrow.

The Cons of Solar Energy 

Considering solar energy’s pros and cons is essential in making the right choice. Some of the disadvantages of solar energy are:

High Cost of Investment

Shifting to solar energy requires high upfront costs. So, when making the change, look at it as a long-term investment. You’ll use the energy source for a couple of years before it can cover the initial cost. 

Moving Too Soon Will Cause You To Lose Out on the Investment

Some people may want to move their organization to a different place a few years after shifting to solar energy. If that’s your intention, it may be wise to install the panels once you’re settled. That’s because you need to stay in the solar-fitted building for some years to reap the benefits. If you leave too soon, you may lose out on your investment. 

Are Solar Panels Worth It for a Business?

A common question among business owners is, are solar panels worth it for a business? To answer that, consider solar energy’s pros and cons. That includes various things, including taking a closer look at the tax savings and examining the pros and cons of solar energy on the environment. 

In Conclusion 

For most businesses, the benefits of solar energy outweigh the disadvantages. But, the solution may not be right for you. So, make sure you assess the pros and cons of solar energy before deciding.