 TITLE: What Is Debt Financing? CONTENT: Debt Financing Alternatives\n---------------------------\nIf you're interested in debt financing, you have a wealth of options to consider. The SBA offers loan guarantees that can help small business owners secure business loans with favorable rates and terms. Online lenders offer an alternative to banks, which can be conservative when it comes to business lending.\nAre you in need of emergency financing—or are you unsure of your ability to get a business loan? You might consider using credit cards to cover minor short-term gaps in funding: Just be wary of high interest rates that can make credit card debt more difficult to pay off. This plan works best when you have a clear plan for paying off your balance quickly. You might also look to friends and family for help, or even think about tapping your own home equity. Before you take this kind of leap, however, think through your ability to repay. Depleting your personal assets or failing to repay your loved ones can do lasting damage that goes well beyond business.\nAlternatively, consider other ways to finance your business. If you're open to equity financing, an angel investor may be able to provide financial backing and—in ideal circumstances—play an advisory role as you grow. You may be eligible for grants from the SBA, community agencies or nonprofits in your area. Crowdfunding sites like Kickstarter or GoFundMe may also help you raise a bit of capital to launch a new product or keep the doors open through a rough patch. END