When people think about business financing (Equipment Financing), the first image that pops into their mind is usually a traditional bank—paperwork, long approval times, and, let’s be honest, a good chance of hearing “no.” But here’s the truth: banks aren’t the only game in town anymore.
Whether you’re a growing construction company needing new machinery, a restaurant looking to upgrade its kitchen, or a retailer prepping for the holiday season, alternative financing solutions are making big moves possible—without ever stepping foot inside a bank.
The Rise of Non-Bank Financing
Over the last decade, non-bank lenders have become a major force in commercial lending. Why? Because they’re fast, flexible, and often more creative when it comes to helping small and mid-sized businesses access the capital they need. At Fundswell Consulting Group, we’ve seen firsthand how clients have financed everything from forklifts to full-on facility expansions—all without the traditional red tape.
Let’s explore some real-world examples of what can be financed through alternative lending, and how smart business owners are using these tools to grow without sacrificing equity or getting stuck in slow approval cycles.
1. Equipment Financing
Need a new bulldozer? Medical imaging machine? Commercial kitchen upgrade? Equipment financing lets you borrow the capital to purchase or lease heavy-duty tools and machinery—with the equipment itself often serving as collateral. According to Investopedia, equipment financing allows businesses to acquire machinery or technology while preserving cash flow.
✅ Real Example: A landscaping business in Illinois used equipment financing to purchase $120K worth of heavy-duty mowers, trailers, and loaders. They were approved in 48 hours—no bank involved.
Pro Tip: This type of financing often has favorable terms because the equipment retains value. Plus, it can be tax-deductible under IRS Section 179.
2. Commercial Real Estate
Yes—you can finance real estate acquisitions, rehabs, and even construction without going through a traditional bank. Many private lenders and financing platforms offer asset-based loans or bridge loans to help you secure properties faster and with fewer restrictions.
✅ Real Example: A logistics company in Texas acquired a $2.4M warehouse using an asset-based loan with a 10% down payment, no tax returns required, and funded in 15 business days.
Bonus: These loans are ideal for borrowers with less-than-perfect credit or who need a quick close in a competitive market.
3. Working Capital
Need funds to cover payroll, marketing, or short-term operational costs? Working capital loans—especially revenue-based financing—are one of the fastest-growing segments of non-bank lending. These loans are based on your daily or monthly revenue, not just your credit score.
✅ Real Example: A growing eCommerce store in Florida used $75K in working capital to boost its ad spend ahead of Q4. They saw a 3x return and repaid the loan in 6 months.
Best For: Seasonal businesses, service companies, and startups in need of short-term liquidity.
4. Inventory Financing
If you’re in retail, manufacturing, or wholesale, you already know the pain of needing to buy inventory before you’ve sold any product. Inventory financing helps you stock up in advance—without tying up your cash flow.
✅ Real Example: A women’s fashion brand used $150K in inventory financing to launch a fall collection and secured a major retail partnership because they could meet volume demands upfront.
Fun Fact: Inventory financing can also be paired with PO financing (purchase order financing) to cover end-to-end logistics.
The Real Benefit? Speed + Strategy
Unlike banks, alternative lenders focus on your business potential, not just your FICO score. Decisions are faster (sometimes same-day!), and terms can be tailored to your specific situation. With the right consulting partner—yes, like us—you can build a custom financing stack that supports your growth without locking you into inflexible agreements.
5. Franchise or Business Expansion
Ready to open a second location or scale operations? Alternative lenders offer expansion loans that can cover renovations, hiring, marketing, and more. These loans are often unsecured, meaning you don’t need to put up real estate or equipment as collateral.
✅ Real Example: A fast-casual restaurant chain expanded into two new cities using a $350K expansion loan structured over 24 months—with approval in just 3 days.
The Smart Way to Start
If you’ve ever thought, “I’d grow faster if I had the money,” you’re probably right—and you don’t need to wait on a bank to get started.
We help clients every day navigate this world of flexible, strategic, non-bank funding. From a single equipment lease to a full business growth plan, there’s a smart, accessible solution out there—and we’re here to help you find it.
Need help figuring out what you can finance right now?
👉 Let’s talk. Schedule a free Success Scan and we’ll show you what’s possible—today.
