Microlending is how businesses can borrow money from lenders, often through an online platform. This type of lending has become popular in recent years as a way for small business owners to get the financing they need to grow their businesses.
What Is Microlending?
Microlending is a way for small businesses to borrow money from lenders, often through an online platform. The term “micro” refers to the size of the loans and their purpose. This is because microloans are usually designed to help people start or expand existing businesses and pay living expenses (housing, food).
Although there has been some controversy over the interest rates charged by lenders, microloans are often more accessible than traditional bank loans.
How does Microlending work?
Microlending was developed as an alternative to loan sharking when people with low credit scores are forced to borrow money at high-interest rates from illegal lenders.
Microlending platforms exist to help connect borrowers who need small loans with investors who want to make a social impact by funding businesses that might not otherwise get the opportunity to grow. Lantern by SoFi will provide you with more information about microlending and how to pay your SBA loan.
Pros of Microlending
Microlending can help people get into business owners who might not otherwise be able to do so. It is an accessible form of financing for small businesses. Microloans can help entrepreneurs pay living expenses while starting or expanding their businesses.
Lenders often have a social mission in addition to making money. This can provide entrepreneurs with other support to succeed, such as mentoring or business development services. Microlending platforms have helped create jobs and economic growth in developing countries around the world.
Cons of Microlending
Microloans are often offered at higher interest rates than traditional bank loans. There is less risk involved for microlenders who lend small amounts and do not require collateral. It has been argued that microlenders exploit people who might not otherwise get loans elsewhere.
Another demerit of microlending is the limitations of the loan amount. Some microlending platforms have caps on the loan amount they will authorize. This means that entrepreneurs who need larger loans might not be able to get them from some lenders, limiting their ability to grow and expand as needed.
Microloans limit how funds may be used, which can hamper the growth of businesses. For example, many microloans are only available to be used for specific purposes. This can restrict entrepreneurs from using funds in ways that could lead to even greater success and potentially more revenue.
Microloans are often short-term, and the repayment schedules can add up quickly if borrowers cannot make their payments on time or in full. This can also lead to high-interest rates, which may discourage borrowers from repaying the loan at all.
In conclusion, microlending can be an excellent way for small businesses to get the financing they need to grow. However, it is crucial to carefully weigh the pros and cons before taking out a microloan. Such consideration would help you avoid financial burdens in the future and guide you in making an informed financial decision.
