Launching a startup is thrilling—but finding money to fuel it when you have no revenue? That’s the tough part. The good news? Startup funding without revenue is possible. Whether you’re pre-revenue, have no collateral, or just need guidance, we’ve got real strategies that work.
In this guide, we’ll walk through 7 proven ways to get capital for your startup in 2025—no revenue required. We’ll also explore how a Business Warrior small business loan can fit into your funding plan, and we’ll drop in smart internal links, FAQs, and tips to make your journey smoother.
SBA Microloans and Community Lenders
If you’re just starting out, SBA microloans might be your best friend. These are smaller loans—up to $50,000—designed for startups and small businesses that may not qualify for traditional loans.
You don’t need revenue, but you do need a plan. Most lenders want to see a solid business idea and a bit of skin in the game (like sweat equity or a small investment).
🧭 Pro Tip: If you’re unsure how the SBA loan application process works, check out our guide: SBA Loan Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for Small Business Owners
Revenue-Based Financing for Future Earnings
No revenue yet? That’s okay—if you have projected income or contracts in place, some lenders will offer revenue-based financing.
You repay the loan as a percentage of your future income. It’s flexible, and your monthly payments rise and fall with your cash flow. This is a great fit for SaaS businesses, subscription-based services, or product launches.
Equipment Loans with Zero Down Payment
You don’t always need to buy expensive gear outright. Many lenders now offer zero down equipment loans, meaning you can get machinery or tech without a massive upfront cost.
These loans are secured by the equipment itself, so even if you don’t have revenue, lenders have assurance they’ll be repaid.
🧠 Think Ahead: If you rely heavily on tools or tech, these loans can free up your working capital for marketing or hiring.
Business Warrior Small Business Loan
The Business Warrior small business loan is made for early-stage businesses. They assess your funding needs holistically—beyond just credit score or revenue—and offer quick decisions with transparent terms.
Whether you’re building your first storefront or scaling a service business, Business Warrior can be a flexible funding partner.
This type of loan is especially useful if you want:
- Fast funding (often within 48 hours)
- No prepayment penalties
- A lender that understands startup challenges
Crowdfunding & Pre-Sales
Why not get your customers to fund your launch? Crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or Indiegogo are ideal for product-based startups.
Pitch your idea, set funding goals, and offer incentives. Many entrepreneurs raise thousands—sometimes millions—before ever generating revenue.
💬 Real Talk: Crowdfunding success depends heavily on marketing. A great pitch video, a clear mission, and community engagement are essential.
Secured and Unsecured Business Lines of Credit
Even with no revenue, you may qualify for a secured or unsecured line of credit. If you have assets (like equipment, vehicles, or a co-signer), a secured line could be your way in.
If not, some fintech lenders offer unsecured lines based on your credit or future potential.
Read more in our blog: Secured vs Unsecured Business Lines of Credit: Which Is Best for Your Business?
📊 Compare Options:
Loan Type | Revenue Needed | Risk Level | Turnaround Time |
SBA Microloan | No | Low | 1-2 weeks |
Revenue-Based Financing | Future rev OK | Medium | 3-5 days |
Zero Down Equipment Loan | No | Low-Med | 1 week |
Business Warrior Loan | No | Low | 24-48 hours |
Crowdfunding | No | Medium | Campaign based |
Secured Credit Line | No (but assets) | Medium | 2-4 days |
Alternative Loans for Founders with No Credit
If your credit history is thin—or non-existent—don’t worry. There are still options.
Online lenders, credit unions, and nonprofit loan programs offer alternative business loans for startups with no credit history.
Check out our detailed guide on this: Top Alternative Business Loans for Startups with No Credit History
These lenders often consider factors like:
- Business plan quality
- Market potential
- Industry background
FAQs: Startup Funding Without Revenue
Q1. Can I get a startup loan with no revenue and no credit?
Yes. Lenders like Business Warrior and nonprofit microloan programs offer flexible funding for startups with no revenue or credit history.
Q2. What’s the easiest loan to get with no revenue?
SBA microloans, crowdfunding, and revenue-based financing are often easiest to access with no income.
Q3. Are zero down equipment loans safe?
Yes—as long as the terms are clear. These loans use the equipment itself as collateral.
Q4. How can I increase my chances of loan approval without revenue?
Build a solid business plan, explore multiple funding sources, and consider partnerships or co-signers.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let “No Revenue” Stop You
Starting from scratch doesn’t mean starting from nothing. With tools like zero down equipment loans, revenue-based financing, and the Business Warrior small business loan, you can build momentum faster than you think.
Explore your options, prepare your pitch, and use resources like our SBA loan guide to map your journey.
BusinessLoanWarrior.com is here to help you power through the funding maze—so you can focus on building something amazing.
