Access to capital has always been one of the biggest challenges for small businesses. Despite driving more than 50% of U.S. sales, many small businesses — especially those seeking short-term funding — find themselves overlooked by traditional banks. 

If your business needs quick capital to fill an order, purchase equipment, or bridge a temporary cash flow gap, alternative financing could be the solution you’ve been looking for. 

Why Don’t Banks Lend to Small Businesses Anymore? 

The reality is: banks often see small business loans — especially loans under $1 million — as unprofitable. 

Why is that? 

  • 📉 High overhead costs for small loan processing 
  • 🔍 Strict credit score requirements 
  • ️ Regulatory constraints that limit flexibility 

So, while banks prioritize large commercial clients, small and mid-sized businesses are left behind, even when they only need $20K–$250K in short-term capital. 

What Is Alternative Financing and Why Is It Growing? 

Alternative financing refers to non-bank lenders offering fast, flexible funding to businesses that banks often ignore. This includes options like: 

  • Revenue-Based Financing 
  • Merchant Cash Advances 
  • Short-Term Working Capital Loans 

These lenders are filling the funding gap — and doing it faster, with fewer requirements. 

How Are Alternative Funders Able to Help? 

Alternative lenders like CFG Merchant Solutions succeed where banks can’t by: 

  1. Going Digital

Most of the application and approval process is done entirely online. Business owners can apply in minutes, with approvals often made in 24 hours or less. 

 

  1. Using Big Data for Smarter Decisions

Instead of relying solely on credit scores, lenders evaluate: 

  • – Revenue and transaction history 
  • – Bank account activity 
  • – Credit card and payment behavior 
  • – Social proof (reviews, social media presence) 
  • – Business performance and deposit trends 
  •  

📊 These data-driven models allow lenders to make faster, more accurate decisions — even for businesses with imperfect credit. 

Are Alternative Financing Rates Higher? 

Yes — rates can be higher than bank loans, but you’re paying for speed, flexibility, and access. 

Your rate depends on: 

  • Time in business 
  • Monthly revenue 
  • Credit history 
  • Industry risk profile 

Most importantly, you’re not disqualified just because your credit isn’t perfect.

 

When used strategically, alternative financing is an investment in growth — not just a cost. 

Can Alternative Financing Really Help My Business Grow? 

Absolutely. Small businesses often seek short-term capital for: 

  • 1. Purchasing inventory to fulfill a large order 
  • 2. Upgrading or replacing equipment 
  • 3. Bridging gaps between invoices and payments 
  • 4. Launching marketing campaigns 
  • 5. Covering payroll or operational costs during slow periods 
  •  

CFG Merchant Solutions offers funding to help you move quickly, seize opportunities, and grow with confidence. 

Why Choose CFG Merchant Solutions? 

We’re more than just a lender — we’re a partner for your business’s growth. 

Here’s what you get with CFGMS: 

  • 🧠 10+ years of institutional investment and credit expertise 
  • 💡 Flexible financing tailored to your needs 
  • ️ Technology + human underwriting for smart, fast decisions 
  • 🏦 Direct funding with no brokers or middlemen 

 

We specialize in helping small and mid-sized businesses across the U.S., especially those that have been underserved by traditional banks. 

Apply for Small Business Funding Today 

Need quick access to capital? We’re ready to help. 

👉 Apply online now — it only takes minutes 
📞 Prefer to talk? Speak with a funding expert 

Let’s grow your business — together. 

FAQs: Alternative Financing for Small Businesses 

Q: What is alternative financing? 
A: It’s non-bank business funding, including short-term loans and cash advances, offered by private lenders who evaluate more than just credit score. 

Q: How quickly can I get funding? 
A: Many business owners receive funds within 24–48 hours of approval. 

Q: Will poor credit disqualify me? 
A: Not necessarily. Alternative lenders evaluate your business’s performance, not just your FICO score. 

Q: What can I use the funds for? 
A: Anything your business needs — inventory, payroll, marketing, repairs, or working capital.