Alternative Capital Sourcing for (Not Only) Ecommerce and Manufacturing

Growing a business often requires using the right kind of capital at the right time. And I’ve used creative financing extensively in my own companies, so I understand which types of funding work well in specific situations, and which to avoid. And I have strong, trusted contacts who can bring you clear information, and others who can source the best possible deal terms to fit your profile. So if you’re looking to fuel growth, bridge a cash flow gap, or prepare for a major opportunity, I can connect you with the right resources.

Every company should start with founder money if available, and friends & family money where possible too. Founders should also consider whether they’ll willing to sell equity in their company, and whether potential equity partners will provide value beyond liquidity. Debt allows you to keep full ownership, but it adds pressure to cash flow, and there are limits to how much you can get. And It’s important to be careful what you put at risk, even if you think you have years to build before you would ever have to worry. Be realistic about what could go wrong, and never reckless.

Few early stage companies can access as much capital as they’d like from traditional banks, the SBA, and low/no interest credit cards. These are the traditional, ideal ways to borrow, and nearly everyone should start there, after personal contributions. Supplier/vender payment terms might also be available if you ask (or early payment discounts), especially if you can explain in detail how this will help you increase the volume you do with them. True cash flow mastery also involves concepts such as postponement (see this Substack). Finally, when these are all tapped out or can’t move the needle fast enough, alternative lending is often there to fill the gap.

These options are often structured in ways most people are unfamiliar with, and the lenders don’t always see it as their responsibility put them in familiar terms. I’m doing that for you here instead. My focus is to not only connect you with the best alternative lenders you can use, but to help make sure you understand the offers really well.

If it sounds useful I can also connect you with skilled professionals who will have your back every step of the way. Including not only people within the private lending ecosystem, but also independent financial planners, accountants, profitability experts, and fractional CFOs specialized in ecommerce and manufacturing, who can help you develop a deep, strategic understanding of your numbers. My goal is for you get the right funding on the right terms, and to be successful with what you need it for. That includes operations support if you need it, because as an ops expert (see my bio), I get hands on there for clients myself.

Fill out the contact form below to get in touch and learn how I can help with your particular goals.

Merchant Cash Advance (MCA)

MCA lenders purchase a cut of future revenue at a discount. They close in days and don’t require credit checks. They get some criticism in ecommerce circles due to high fees and repayment terms that squeeze cash flow, but they still get used quite often. So often in fact, that Shopify, Amazon, and Paypal all offer some version of them. And for the right purpose they work well, such as preparing for a high season, entering new markets, or strengthening revenue ahead of an exit. They’re not ideal as general “working capital”, as they’re often marketed. But in a pinch, they’ll keep you going.

Revenue-Based Financing (RBF)

RBF is similar to MCA, in that lenders buy a portion of future revenue at a discount. But these deals are bigger, at $150k to $5 million and up, as opposed to MCAs which usually top out below $100k. (Both might offer up to about 1 month of your revenue). RBF terms are generally much friendlier, because the bigger companies that qualify are lower risk. Fees are lower, term length can be longer, and payback schedules can be weekly, biweekly, or monthly, instead of daily. A lot of this can be negotiable. And importantly, revenue-based financing usually does not require a personal guarantee.

Term Loan

Term loans provide businesses with a lump sum of capital that is repaid over a fixed period, typically with regular monthly payments. They can be secured or unsecured, with interest rates and terms based on factors like credit history, business performance, and collateral. Term loans are well-suited for larger, long-term investments such as expanding operations, purchasing property, or funding major strategic initiatives, where predictable repayment schedules help with financial planning.

Line of Credit (LOC)

A business line of credit works like a flexible borrowing account. You can draw funds when you need them, repay, and draw again, up to your approved limit. Interest is typically only charged on the amount you use. LOCs are valuable for managing cash flow, covering short-term expenses, or handling unexpected opportunities or challenges without committing to a fixed loan amount. They’re very advantageous for businesses with seasonal or fluctuating revenue, and the best time to apply for one is when you don’t have an urgent need for it.

Purchase Order Financing

Purchase Order financing allows you to accept and fulfill large customer orders without tying up your own cash. A lender advances funds to pay your suppliers directly, ensuring you can deliver on time. Once your customer pays their invoice, the lender takes their repayment plus fees, and you keep the balance. This can be a lifeline for growing companies that land big contracts but don’t yet have the working capital to cover upfront production or import costs, including recently increased tariffs.

Equipment Financing

Equipment financing helps you purchase or lease the machinery, vehicles, or technology your business needs without paying the full amount upfront. The equipment itself often serves as collateral, which can make approval easier and interest rates more favorable. This type of financing lets you keep cash free for other needs while upgrading or expanding your operational capabilities, whether you’re replacing outdated tools or investing in cutting-edge equipment to gain a competitive edge.

Invoice Factoring

Invoice factoring converts your unpaid invoices into immediate working capital. You sell your accounts receivable to a factoring company at a discount, and they advance you most of the invoice value, often within 24 hours. When your customer pays, the factor collects the payment and sends you the remainder, minus their fees. This is a fast way to improve cash flow, especially for businesses with long payment terms or slow-paying clients.

Mortgage Financing

Mortgage financing can let your property equity work in your favor by leveraging it in exchange for financing that you can put towards your business. Mortgage financing can help you purchase new real estate, renovate or expand existing facilities, or fund other major growth initiatives. Whether through commercial mortgages, refinance options, or equity loans, these products offer competitive rates and longer repayment terms, making them a solid choice for businesses investing in high-value, long-term assets.