 TITLE: Can You Get a Personal Loan to Start a Business? CONTENT: Alternatives to Using a Personal Loan to Start a Business\n---------------------------------------------------------\nDepending on your situation and goals, here are some other ways you may be able to fund your new business idea:\n*   **Business credit card**: Business credit cards offer a revolving line of credit you can use over and over again. Some even provide an introductory 0% APR promotion, so you can take time to pay off startup costs without interest. Plus, you may be able to earn rewards and enjoy other perks. However, interest rates can be upwards of 20%, depending on your credit.\n*   **SBA microloan**: The SBA microloan program offers loans up to $50,000 and is specifically designed for startups and expansion. Of course, lenders can set their own eligibility criteria, so you may still need to meet requirements for time in business and revenues to get approved.\n*   **Nonprofit microloan**: Microlending platforms like Kiva offer small loans with low or even 0% interest rates. The catch is that you need to get people in your community, such as friends and family, to fund a small portion of the loan.\n*   **Crowdfunding platforms**: If you're developing a product, consider using websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo to get initial funding for your business plan. Instead of paying the money back, you'll give funders early access to your product. END