9 things you must do to maximize your chances of obtaining a small business loan

To get approval for your small business loan application, you
must be able to meet the lending criteria set down.  Some organisations are
more risk averse than others, and will therefore have more stringent criteria.
To vastly increase your chances of a successful funding application, you will
need to present the following information:

1. The reason for the loan.  The lender
will be looking for something that fits within the normal range and expertise of
your business.  The amount may cover a number of items, so you will need to
cover each.

2. The amount required, and the repayment
term of the small business loan you want.  (e.g. $10,000 term 5 years,
payable quarterly).

3. Details of how you will repay the amount
borrowed. For example,  “From the increase in profits of reduced running
costs of the Whizzbang Go4It”

4. Details of security you will be able to
offer to the lender.  This will act as reassurance for the lender. If
you’re not prepared to put up some aspect of security, then why should they?

5. You will need to include your business
plan which will serve to answer essential questions relating to management
capabilities, information about the market you operate in.  What kind of
business you are in etc.

6. 3 Years financial statements.  You
will need to present quality financial information from your accounting
software, preferably signed off by your accountant or tax advisor.

7. Latest Set of Management accounts. Again
produced from your accounting software.

8. Accounts receivables (debtors) and
payables (creditors) ageing reports.

9. Principals financial statements. –
Particularly required if some form of security is necessary.

If you are a new company, the emphasis is
going to be on your business plan , and the security (also called collateral)
you or your business can provide against the loan.

You must take the time to practice presenting
your case to the bank or lender to iron out any glitches.  Practice on your
colleagues and family (you never know, they might be so impressed, they'll
invest or lend!).  It may help to role play the lender and come up with as
many pointy questions as possible.  The more time you take the better your
chances will be. (But remember, don’t fall into the analysis paralysis trap!)

Good luck!