A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Capital When You’re Just Getting Started
Starting a business is exciting—but also expensive. And if you haven’t made a single sale yet, the idea of getting funding can feel impossible.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need revenue or years of business history to get started.
Many entrepreneurs launch with limited resources and no track record. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to approach startup business funding with no revenue, what types of funding might be available, and how to prepare—even if you’re brand new.
Can You Really Get Funding with No Revenue?
Yes—though the options are a little different than traditional business loans.
Most banks and traditional lenders want to see at least 6 months of revenue before they consider a loan. But startups aren’t out of luck. Today’s funding landscape includes alternative lenders, creative financing tools, and credit-based solutions designed for early-stage businesses.
If you’re willing to be strategic, there are legitimate ways to access startup capital.
Best Startup Funding Options (When You Have No Revenue)
Credit Card Stacking
This is one of the most popular ways to fund a startup with no revenue. Credit card stacking involves applying for multiple 0% interest business credit cards at once—giving you access to $20,000 to $150,000+ in funding without needing income or collateral.
✔ Great for: founders with good personal credit (650+)
✔ Use for: marketing, equipment, launching your offer
Equipment Financing
If your startup needs tools or machinery (think: landscaping, mobile detailing, cleaning, etc.), you may qualify for equipment financing—even without revenue. The equipment itself often acts as collateral.
✔ Great for: service-based startups
✔ Use for: buying gear to start making money quickly
Microloans & Community Lenders
Some nonprofits, credit unions, or economic development centers offer microloans (typically under $50,000) to new businesses with strong business plans. These often focus on underserved communities, women-owned businesses, or first-time entrepreneurs.
✔ Great for: founders with a solid business concept and community support
✔ Use for: launching or covering initial expenses
📌 Tip: Look into your local SBA resource partner or SCORE chapter for leads.
Friends & Family Loans or Investment
If someone in your personal network believes in your idea, they may be willing to loan money or invest in your business. Just make sure to treat it like a real transaction—put terms in writing and set clear expectations.
✔ Great for: bootstrapping a simple startup
✔ Use for: getting started before applying elsewhere
What You’ll Need to Show Lenders or Advisors
Even if you don’t have sales, you’ll still want to prepare:
✅ A clear business idea or product
✅ A basic business plan or executive summary
✅ A budget showing how the money will be used
✅ A timeline for launching and generating revenue
✅ A decent personal credit score (for most unsecured funding)
Not sure where to start? Our free guide includes templates to help.
Real Talk: What to Avoid
Some funding offers sound great but can lead to trouble. Watch out for:
❌ High-interest payday-style business loans
❌ Brokers who charge large upfront fees
❌ Loans that require daily payments with no flexibility
Stick with trusted sources—and never sign something you don’t fully understand.
✅ Ready to Take the First Step?
Starting a business with no revenue doesn’t mean you’re out of options. You just need to be informed and strategic.
Download our Ultimate Business Funding Guide to explore funding options, get your plan together, and access the tools you need to start strong.
Or Get Pre-qualified (below) to see what you might already be eligible for—even as a startup.