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What Are the Types of Business Loans Offered by Banks

Running a business requires continuous funding — whether it’s for expansion, managing daily operations, buying new equipment, or maintaining cash flow. Banks in India offer a variety of business loans to help entrepreneurs and business owners meet these financial requirements smoothly.

In this article, we’ll explain in simple terms what are the types of business loans offered by banks, how they work, and which loan might be the best fit for your business.


Understanding Business Loans

A business loan is a financial product that provides funds to individuals, startups, and companies to support their business-related activities. These loans can be secured or unsecured, depending on the lender’s requirements and the borrower’s creditworthiness.

Business loans help entrepreneurs:

  • Expand operations or open new branches
  • Manage working capital needs
  • Purchase machinery or raw materials
  • Pay suppliers and employees on time

Banks offer different types of business loans based on the purpose, repayment capacity, and size of the business.

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Top Types of Business Loans Offered by Banks

Banks in India provide a wide range of business loans to meet the needs of various industries and business sizes. Let’s look at the most common types of business loans available.


1. Term Loan

A term loan is one of the most popular types of business loans offered by banks. It provides a fixed amount of money for a specific purpose, which is repaid over a set period (term) through monthly EMIs.

Features of Term Loan:

  • Can be short-term (up to 1 year) or long-term (up to 10 years)
  • Fixed or floating interest rates
  • Suitable for business expansion, purchasing equipment, or renovating premises

Example: A manufacturing company may take a term loan to buy new machinery.

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2. Working Capital Loan

A working capital loan helps businesses manage daily operational expenses such as paying rent, salaries, or purchasing raw materials. It ensures smooth cash flow even during low-revenue periods.

Features:

  • Usually short-term in nature
  • Quick disbursal
  • Repayment through regular EMIs or lump sum payments

Best For: Traders, manufacturers, retailers, and small business owners.

Keywords: working capital loan, small business loan, MSME working capital funding.


3. Equipment Financing or Machinery Loan

Businesses often need heavy machinery or advanced tools to improve production. A machinery loan helps finance the purchase or upgrade of equipment.

Features:

  • Loan amount depends on equipment cost
  • Usually secured against the equipment itself
  • Competitive interest rates for manufacturing units

Example: A textile factory buying new stitching machines can opt for equipment financing.

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4. Business Line of Credit

A business line of credit works like a credit card for businesses. The bank sanctions a credit limit, and the borrower can withdraw funds as needed. Interest is charged only on the amount utilized.

Features:

  • Flexible borrowing and repayment
  • Ideal for short-term cash flow gaps
  • Reusable credit facility (revolving credit)

Best For: Small and medium enterprises with fluctuating cash needs.

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5. Overdraft Facility

The overdraft facility allows business owners to withdraw money from their current account even when the account balance is zero. It provides quick access to funds during emergencies.

Features:

  • Interest charged only on the utilized amount
  • Flexible repayment option
  • Limit decided based on business turnover and financial history

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6. Invoice Financing

Invoice financing, also known as invoice discounting or bill discounting, helps businesses unlock cash tied up in unpaid invoices. Banks lend a percentage (usually 80–90%) of the invoice value to maintain liquidity.

Features:

  • Quick access to funds
  • Short-term loan
  • Repayment when the customer clears the invoice

Example: A logistics company can use invoice financing to pay for fuel or salaries while waiting for client payments.

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7. Business Credit Card

A business credit card provides easy access to short-term credit for day-to-day business expenses. It helps maintain a clear record of business transactions and improves credit history.

Features:

  • Instant access to credit
  • Interest-free period up to 45 days
  • Rewards and cashback on business spends

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8. MSME Loans (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Loans)

Banks offer MSME loans under government schemes like CGTMSE, Mudra Yojana, and Stand-Up India to promote small business growth.

Features:

  • Collateral-free loans for small and medium businesses
  • Subsidized interest rates under government programs
  • Fast approval and minimal documentation

Best For: Small business owners, shopkeepers, traders, and women entrepreneurs.

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9. Startup Business Loans

For entrepreneurs launching new ventures, startup loans offer the financial support needed to get started.

Features:

  • Unsecured loans for new businesses
  • Loan amount based on projected income and business plan
  • Support for product development, marketing, or inventory purchase

Example: A tech startup can use this loan to develop its mobile app or hire new employees.

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10. Trade and Export Finance

Trade loans and export finance are designed for businesses involved in international trade. These loans support importers and exporters with working capital and foreign transaction needs.

Features:

  • Pre-shipment and post-shipment finance available
  • Helps manage international trade payments
  • Offered in both Indian and foreign currencies

Keywords: export finance, import loan, trade credit India.


How to Choose the Right Business Loan

Before applying for any loan, consider the following factors:

  1. Purpose of the loan – Define whether it’s for expansion, operations, or equipment purchase.
  2. Repayment capacity – Choose tenure and EMI that suit your income.
  3. Interest rate – Compare offers from multiple banks to find the best deal.
  4. Collateral requirement – Opt for unsecured loans if you don’t want to pledge assets.
  5. Lender reputation – Always choose reputed banks or NBFCs with transparent policies.

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Eligibility Criteria for Business Loans

While criteria differ across lenders, common eligibility conditions include:

  • Applicant Age: 21 to 65 years
  • Business Vintage: At least 1–3 years of operation
  • Annual Turnover: Minimum ₹10 lakhs (varies by lender)
  • Credit Score: 700 or above
  • Documents Required: PAN, Aadhaar, business registration certificate, bank statements, ITR, and financial reports.

Meeting these requirements helps you secure quick business loan approval from banks.


Benefits of Taking a Business Loan

  • Boosts cash flow and working capital
  • Funds expansion or diversification
  • Improves productivity through equipment financing
  • No need to dilute ownership or bring in investors
  • Flexible repayment options with fixed EMIs

A business loan empowers entrepreneurs to grow their business confidently and sustainably.


Conclusion – Choose the Right Business Loan for Your Growth

Understanding the different types of business loans offered by banks is the first step towards making a smart financial decision. Whether you are a small retailer, a startup founder, or a manufacturer, there’s a loan option that perfectly fits your business needs.

From term loans to working capital loans, MSME schemes, and startup funding, banks provide diverse options to help you achieve business growth without financial stress.

Choose wisely, borrow responsibly, and use funds effectively to turn your business goals into reality.

Read More: Trusted Financial Partner for a Stable and Prosperous Future, Your Trusted Partner for Fast and Reliable Loans, Education Loan – Secure Your Academic Future, Meet Your Financial Needs Easily with a Personal Loan, Business loans to boost your business growth, Your Trusted Partner for Better Financial Solutions

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