The best small business loans for Chicago, IL
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Industries we work with in Chicago, IL
We're proud to work with small businesses across various industries in Chicago, IL. Whether you're in healthcare, construction, or technology, we're here to help you grow and succeed. Our financing solutions are customized to meet your needs, so you can focus on what you do best - running your business!
Here are some of the many industries we serve:
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Construction
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Medical Practices
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Beauty Salons
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Retail Stores
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Restaurants
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Hotels
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Manufacturing
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Staffing
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Automotive Businesses
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Landscaping
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Toy Businesses
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Transportation
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IT
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Professional Services
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Veterinary Practices
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Franchise Businesses

See why thousands of businesses have made SMB Compass
the top-rated small business loan provider in Chicago, IL
Learn more about our loan packages
The best small business loan in Chicago, IL
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SBA Loans
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Term Loan
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Invoice Financing
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Business Line of Credit
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Inventory Financing
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Bridge Loans
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Equipment Financing
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Asset Based Loans
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Purchase Order Financing
FAQs about small business loans in Chicago, IL
If you’re looking to get a small business loan in Chicago, IL, here’s what you should do:
- Know what you need. Before applying for a loan, get a clear idea of how much money your business needs and how you will use the funds. Doing so can help identify the best type of loan for your needs.
- Check your credit score. Many lenders in Chicago, IL, will look at your credit score when reviewing your application, so knowing where you stand is important. If your score is less than ideal, consider improving it by making timely payments, keeping old accounts open, and limiting new credit applications.
- Research lenders. Many different types of lenders offer small business loans in Chicago, IL, including banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Research to find out which ones best fit your needs and qualifications.
- Prepare your application. Once you’ve identified potential lenders, prepare your loan application carefully. This may include providing financial statements, tax returns, and other documentation demonstrating your ability to repay the loan.
- Apply for the loan. If you’ve found a lender you’re comfortable with, it’s time to start your application. The process varies from lender to lender, but essentially, you need to submit your loan application along with the required documents. You also need to prepare to answer any additional questions the lender may have.
- Wait for a decision. The lender will then review your application and decide whether to approve your loan or not. Funding speed depends on the lender and loan type. Banks usually take weeks or months, while online lenders can fund your business in a day.

Chicago IL
It is generally difficult to borrow 100% of the funds you need for a business loan in Chicago, IL, or anywhere else. Lenders typically require borrowers to provide some form of collateral, like personal or business assets, to guarantee that they’ll repay the loan.
Lenders may also require a down payment or contribution to show your commitment to the project, reducing the lender's risk and increasing the likelihood that you’ll pay off the loan.
In some cases, government-backed loan programs like the Small Business Administration (SBA) may offer loans with more flexible terms. Still, even in these cases, borrowers must usually contribute some of their own funds or assets.
While it may be difficult to borrow 100% of the funds needed for a business loan, it's always best to speak with lenders or financial institutions to explore your options and find a loan product that meets your specific needs and requirements.
You may be eligible for a business loan if you are a business owner in Chicago, IL. However, eligibility requirements can vary depending on the lender, loan type, and other factors. Here are some general requirements to keep in mind:
First, lenders will typically look at your credit score to determine your creditworthiness. A good credit score can increase your chances of loan approval. However, some lenders may still be willing to work with you even if you have less-than-perfect credit.
Second, lenders may require you to have been in business for a certain amount of time and have a certain level of revenue or financial stability. They want to ensure that your business has a proven track record of success and can generate enough revenue to repay the loan.
Third, some lenders may require you to provide collateral to secure the loan. This means you'll need assets, such as equipment or real estate, to be used as collateral.
Fourth, lenders may require you to provide a detailed business plan that outlines how you will use the loan funds and how your business will generate revenue to repay the loan.
Fifth, your business must be registered as a legal entity and be in good standing. This means you'll need all the necessary licenses, permits, and registrations to operate your business legally.
Finally, some lenders may have restrictions on the types of businesses they will lend to or the industries they will work with. It's important to research and find a lender that is a good fit for your business and loan needs.
Overall, eligibility requirements can vary depending on the lender and loan type, but with careful planning and preparation, you can increase your chances of being approved for a business loan in Chicago, IL.
If you're looking to get a business loan in Chicago, IL, it's unlikely that you'll be able to do so with no money down. Lenders generally require borrowers to provide collateral or make a down payment to secure the loan and show their commitment to the project.
Collateral can come from personal or business assets, such as real estate, equipment, or inventory. A down payment, on the other hand, shows that you're invested in the project and willing to share the risk with the lender. This reduces the lender's risk and increases the likelihood of loan approval.
While it is not always possible to obtain a $50,000 loan in one day in Chicago, IL, some online lenders offer same-day funding for certain loans. However, it's important to research all the requirements and eligibility criteria before applying for a loan and compare different offers from different lenders to get the most favorable terms possible. Additionally, some lenders may require collateral such as equipment or real estate to secure the loan, so consider this when shopping for the best deal.