Go Back
What Are Microloans and How Do They Work To Help Small Businesses

What Are Microloans and How Do They Work To Help Small Businesses?

By Prerna Banwait | October 21, 2022

How often do you hold back because of the lack of extra funds? It’s common for a business to see limited growth due to low capital. A microloan can make a significant difference in business expansion and assist with various other improvements.

Obtaining a loan from a traditional lender can be a lengthy process, and often business owners cannot proceed with their plans due to rejection. Understanding what a microloan is and how your business can grow using it can benefit your company.

What are Microloans? 

​​​​There are nations where many people can’t access financial institutions to get monetary help. That’s why microloans become vital tools for entrepreneurship and economic growth. They can benefit many entrepreneurs, especially those without other financial assistance. But what are micro-loans, and how do they work?

Microloans are small loans, specifically designed for entrepreneurs and small businesses in developing countries. Because they are small and accessible to a wide range of borrowers, microloans are an essential tool for economic development and poverty alleviation.

Microloans are typically provided by microfinance institutions (MFIs), which are specialized financial institutions that offer financial services to low-income households and small businesses. MFIs use a variety of lending models, but the most common is the group lending model. Borrowers form small groups and guarantee each other’s loans. This model helps to reduce the risk of loan default and makes it easier for MFIs to reach small borrowers in remote areas.

There are many benefits to obtaining a microloan, some of which are mentioned below:

1. Microloans can help entrepreneurs start or grow a business.

2. Microloans can be used for a variety of business-related purposes, such as purchasing inventory, equipment, or supplies.

3. Microloans can be easier to qualify for than traditional bank loans.

4. Microloans are faster to obtain. 

5. They can help with repairs and emergencies.

There are also some risks of taking out a microloan:

1. The loan may need to be repaid quickly, typically within a year.

2. The interest rate on the loan may be higher than the interest rate on a traditional bank loan, depending on the lender.

3. The loan may be secured using personal assets, such as a home or car referred to as collateral.

4. Some lenders require you to have a good credit score. 

Repayment rates for microloans are typically high, due to the use of group guarantees. Also, most microloan borrowers have a solid incentive to repay their loans to maintain access to credit. This makes microloans an attractive option for lenders and has helped to spur the growth of the microfinance industry.

Microloans are an effective tool for promoting entrepreneurship and economic growth in developing countries.

A study by the Consultative Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP) found that microloans increased business profits by an average of 34 percent. In addition, microloans have been shown to have a positive impact on employment, with borrowers typically hiring one or two additional employees after the loan. They are an aid to minorities who face a difficult time obtaining a loan from traditional lenders. Low-income individuals or women in specific countries who face discrimination can significantly benefit from a microloan.

Microloans are not without their critics. Some argue that they can trap borrowers in a cycle of debt, often needing to take out new loans to repay their existing debt. Others argue that microloans do not always reach the poorest and most vulnerable people in society. They are often unable to meet the eligibility criteria for microloans. Microlending platforms such as Lendee consider every applicant, irrespective of their background or financial status. Lendee is flexible and allows borrowers to get help quickly from the right borrowers.

Despite these criticisms, microloans remain an important tool for promoting economic development and poverty alleviation in the developing world. When used appropriately, microloans can help to create jobs, spur economic growth, and improve the lives of millions of people.

How Do Microloans Work?

Microloans are also available through several online lenders. These lenders typically have a lower interest rate than the SBA, but the loan amount is usually smaller. The process of applying for and receiving a microloan is typically much simpler and quicker than applying for a traditional bank loan. Most microlenders have an online application process, and you may be able to receive funding in as little as a few days.

When you apply for a microloan, you will generally be required to provide some basic information. It includes details about yourself and your business, like your business plan and financial projections. The microlender will then review your application and decide whether or not to approve your loan.

If your loan is approved, you will be given a specific loan amount and required to sign a promissory note. The promissory note will outline the terms of your loan, including the interest rate, repayment schedule, and fees associated with late or missed payments.

Once you have signed the promissory note, the microlender will typically disburse the funds to you via direct deposit into your business bank account. You can then use the loan funds for any of the approved purposes outlined in your loan agreement.

Repaying Your Microloan

Microloans generally have shorter repayment terms than traditional bank loans. Plus, you will be required to start making payments on your loan soon after receiving it. Most microlenders will automatically deduct your loan payments from your business bank account on a predetermined schedule.

If you cannot make a loan payment when it is due, you should immediately contact your microlender to discuss your options. Most microlenders are willing to work with borrowers facing difficulty in making loan payments. But they may charge late fees if you do not make payments as scheduled.

Endnote 

Overall, a microloan proves time and again how it benefits small business entrepreneurs and other individuals. 

Obtaining one is easy, and for most, it’s a better option than going through the complicated processes of traditional financing. If you’re looking for a trusted microlending platform, download the Lendee app now. 

Regardless of your credit score, you’ll be able to get help. Lendee connects you with a wide network of lenders to select the best option. You get loans at a fair rate and flexible payment terms. Overall, you have the power to go for a deal that suits you best.

To learn more about obtaining a microloan, visit lendee.com or raise a microloan request on this money-borrowing app directly to get help instantly!