Why is it Difficult to Get a Startup Business Loan in India?



Recent initiatives by the government such as Make in India and Digital India have given entrepreneurs and startups a boost in India. However, getting funds for building a startup or a business is not an easy task. Getting a Business Loan in India is extremely difficult due to several reasons such as lack of collateral, cash flow issues, and reluctance on the part of lenders to invest in a business in its early stages, and many more.
When it comes to a Business Loan for a startup, there are various options available based on different requirements such as loans for setting up a business, working capital loans, cash advance loans, and so on. Entrepreneurs can raise capital in many ways including:

a) Availing loan from a bank, non-banking financial company (NBFC), or other financial institution.
b) Alternative routes such as crowdfunding.
c) Business funding by angel investors and venture capitalists.

Most banks and financial institutions today lend money based on the four essential C(s) listed below. However, startups find it difficult to meet each criterion making it hard for them to get loans from banks. These 4C(s) are:

1. Capital
2. Collateral
3. Capacity
4. Character

Difficulties Faced by Startups in Getting a Business Loan in India

Although there are different ways new entrepreneurs can raise funds for their business, without a solid credit history and proper revenue proof the chances of rejection of your startup Business Loan request are high. 

The main difficulties that lie in getting funds for a startup include the following reasons:

Time spent in business 

One main criterion for lenders while the approving loan application is the assessment of the risk involved. Although there are several factors that are considered during the process, the one that is specific to business credit is the total time the startup has been active for. Lenders typically approve of those businesses which have been functional for at least two years. In the case of startups, lenders are hesitant in providing them credit due to them not being in operation long enough and other financial proofs that the lenders feel are necessary to keep the business up and running.

Cash flow inadequacy

Any lender will always make sure that the entity or organisation they are funding is capable of repaying by ensuring if they have a regular cash flow stream in place. Startups, more often than not face situations where their expenditure is more than their profits which can lead to cash flow problems. This makes lenders doubtful of their repayment capability and hesitant to give them a loan.

No collateral

When it comes to startups, lenders usually do not want to take the risk of loaning money to businesses in their infancy without having something as collateral from them.  Since startups cannot promise any property or assets as collateral that the lenders can seize in the case of non-repayment, they are unwilling to fund them.

If you're an entrepreneur looking to raise capital for your startup, then getting a Business Loan in India is relatively easy if you opt for alternative lender routes such as crowdfunding, angel investors, and so on. Not only do they speed up the process but also offer several other advantages as well such as:

1. Flexible requirements and eligibility criteria.
2. Faster approvals and quick turnaround time.
3. Ease of online loan application.
4. Quick and sometimes instant loan disbursement after approval.

Parting Thoughts

For budding entrepreneurs looking for Business loans in India, it is advisable for them to seek out alternative lenders who acknowledge and weigh upon the business idea, and the market strategy employed rather than focusing on the cash flow history and other variables. If your startup has a solid strategy and a dynamic business plan, the chances of getting a loan increase substantially.






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