Getting The Lowdown On Government And Non-government Business Loans
Canadian small businesses can choose from non-government and government business loans, with funds offered to finance business expansion, setups, and operations. Businesses that apply through the Canada Small Business Financing Program can borrow up to $500,000. Up to $300,000 can be used for the improvement or purchase of machinery and equipment (used and new) and the purchase of leasehold improvements or the improvement of leasehold properties.
Money in the form of small business loans can be used to finance franchise leasehold equipments, commercial vehicles, land and buildings, and production equipment. Businesses can use the money to finance software, telecommunications and computer equipment and restaurant and hotel equipment. Financial institutions that participate in the program offer secured business loans meaning that they take security in the assets (equipment, land) being financed. Financial institutions may require unsecured guarantees but not exceeding 25 percent of the amount borrowed.
Government business loans are a good option for startups and established businesses that seek to expand or make improvements. While interest rates vary from one financial institution to another, borrowers can choose from variable and fixed interest rate. Borrowers also pay a registration fee equal to 2 percent of the loan amount. Borrowers pay this fee to their bank of choice.
Financial institutions are tasked with advancing and administering loans under the Canada Small Business Financing Program. They are required to follow the same procedures that they would for standard business loans. A number of financial establishments participate in the program, among which BMO Bank of Montreal, National Bank of Canada, Scotiabank, credit unions, and others.
As an alternative to government business loans, businesses may check with a credit union or bank of choice. Requirements and lending criteria vary from lender to lender. Many financial establishments will want to look at income and expenses (including other loans). Applicants may include a list of securities such as buildings and land, equipment, fixtures and settings, commercial vehicles, etc. Businesses should prove ownership of any buildings and land offered as collateral. Financial institutions typically advance about 60 percent of their value. Borrowers who use equipment as collateral should give values and description. Financial establishments usually lend 50 percent of their market value. Fixtures and settings are in the same category – financial establishments advance around fifty percent of their realizable value. Business owners can offer commercial vehicles against the loan, and most financial institutions lend about 60 percent of the vehicle’s realizable value. Regarding shares, financial institutions advance around 60 percent of the shares’ current market value. Most financial institutions will not accept goodwill as collateral. Applicants may offer life insurance policies against the loan. Note that some financial establishments require that applicants have guarantors, and they should offer names of business partners, relatives, and friends who are willing to act as guarantors. They should be people of substance.
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