How to Get Restaurant Funding

Step 1: Confirm Qualification

• US-based operating restaurant
• 6+ months in business (3 months sometimes accepted with strong revenue)
• $20K+ monthly revenue minimum
• FICO 500+ preferred
• No active bankruptcy

Step 2: Pick the Right Product

• Need money fast for any restaurant use → Working capital / MCA
• Buying specific equipment → Equipment financing
• Ongoing cash flow management → Line of credit
• Largest amount, lowest rate, can wait → SBA 7(a)
• Bad credit or new restaurant → Revenue-based financing

Step 3: Gather Documents

• 3 months of business bank statements (PDF)
• Driver license
• Voided check
• 5-minute application

No tax returns, no business plan, no P&L required.

Step 4: Apply Sequentially, Not Stacked

One direct lender at a time. Stacking creates underwriting noise and signals desperation.

Step 5: Demand Total Dollar Cost

Reject any lender refusing to disclose total dollar cost. Calculate: total repaid − amount funded = total cost.

Step 6: Use Funds Productively, Refinance

Deploy capital toward measurable ROI — equipment that increases capacity, marketing that drives bookings, inventory that turns. After 6-12 months clean repayment, refinance into better terms.