Can You Get Startup Business Loans With No Money?

Starting a business is no small feat, especially when you’re short on capital. The truth is, traditional business loans often require strong cash flow, established revenue, and solid business history. But what if you’re just getting started and don’t have any of those things yet?

Fortunately, funding a startup with no money is possible. While it might require more creativity and planning, there are accessible options—some of which may be more strategic than they initially appear.

Funding Options for Startups With No Revenue

If your business is still in its early stages without consistent income or assets, here are a few funding solutions to consider:

1. Equipment Financing

2. Microloans

Microloans, typically up to $50,000, are ideal for small-scale startup needs. Offered by the SBA and nonprofit or community lenders, they often come with more flexible requirements, including lower credit thresholds and no revenue minimums.

3. Small Business Credit Cards

Business credit cards function much like personal ones and can provide immediate access to funds. They’re particularly helpful for covering operational costs like office supplies or travel. Approval is generally based on personal credit, and some offer introductory 0% APR terms—making them a strategic tool when used responsibly.

4. Accounts Receivable Financing

If your startup has clients but is waiting on payments, accounts receivable financing (or invoice factoring) lets you borrow against unpaid invoices. This isn’t ideal for brand-new businesses without any accounts receivable but can be helpful for businesses in that in-between phase.

5. Credit Card Stacking

One often overlooked yet increasingly popular strategy is credit card stacking. This involves applying for multiple business or personal credit cards with high limits and promotional 0% interest offers. Entrepreneurs use this method to access up to $100,000 in interest-free capital, giving them the breathing room to launch and grow before revenue kicks in.

Credit card stacking doesn’t require collateral, can be executed quickly, and—when managed well—can offer one of the most affordable paths to early-stage funding. It’s especially useful for founders with good personal credit but limited cash flow.

So, who is credit card stacking best suited for?
Credit card stacking is ideal for startup founders, e-commerce sellers, coaches, consultants, freelancers, and side hustlers with a 680+ credit score and low credit utilization. It’s perfect for those who need $20,000–$100,000 in fast, interest-free funding to launch or grow without relying on banks or giving up equity. Get pre-qualified without any negative impact to your credit score.

How to Get a Startup Business Loan With No Revenue

If you’re pursuing funding without a steady income stream, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to repay through other means. Here are some key steps:

Know Your Cash Flow and Assets

Start by building a projected cash flow statement and business budget. This helps show lenders how you plan to use the funds and how you intend to repay them.

Get Your Documents Ready

While requirements vary, most lenders evaluate:

Personal credit score
Business plan and financial projections
Available collateral (if any)
Capacity to repay from savings or other income
Time in business

Having these documents organized ahead of time can streamline the application process.

Calculate What You Can Afford to Repay

Don’t just focus on how much you can borrow—focus on what you can comfortably repay. Use online calculators to estimate your monthly payments based on different loan amounts and terms.

Compare Lenders

Once your documentation is ready, take time to compare options. You can approach lenders individually or use online marketplaces to receive multiple loan offers at once.

When Should You Consider a Loan With No Revenue?

There are specific circumstances where taking on debt early makes sense:

You’re Launching Your Business

Most startups need some working capital to get off the ground—whether it’s for inventory, payroll, or rent. If you anticipate revenue within a short timeframe, it could be reasonable to borrow now and repay soon after launch.

You Need Funds to Scale

Early growth often requires investment in staff, marketing, or inventory. If you’ve validated your business idea but lack the capital to grow, financing could help bridge the gap.

You Have a Repayment Plan

If you know how you’ll pay the loan back—whether through future revenue, personal savings, or other income sources—taking a calculated risk on early funding might be worthwhile.

Risks of Getting a Loan With No Money

Of course, borrowing without a financial cushion comes with serious risks. Many no-revenue loans require a personal guarantee, which makes you personally responsible if your business defaults. This could jeopardize your credit score, assets, or savings.

For that reason, consider whether the benefits outweigh the potential personal liability. If you can wait until your business is more stable, you may qualify for better rates and terms.

Alternatives to No-Revenue Business Loans

If taking on debt isn’t ideal right now, consider these alternatives:

For Early-Stage Startups:

Personal Loans: Easier to qualify for, but impact personal credit
Venture Capital: Equity-based, no repayment, but dilutes ownership
Crowdfunding: No repayment required, but takes effort to build traction

For Established Businesses:

Short-Term Loans: Require at least a few months in business
Business Lines of Credit: Revolving access to funds
Grants: Free capital, often with competitive applications

Final Thoughts

Getting funding for a startup without money is challenging—but far from impossible. Tools like microloans, equipment financing, and credit card stacking give early-stage entrepreneurs real options for launching their business.

If you’re strategic, responsible, and realistic about what you can afford, startup funding can act as the first major step in building something lasting. Just remember: the best financing is the kind that supports your growth without putting your future at unnecessary risk.