Funding
Securing the right funding is a critical step in buying or selling a business. Just as with the transaction itself, navigating financing options can be complex and overwhelming. Partnering with experienced professionals who understand the lending landscape can simplify the process, helping you identify the best sources of capital and structure deals that align with your goals. With the right guidance, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your funding strategy supports a successful transaction.
Funding Sources
Lines of Credit
Flexible access to working capital when you need it.
Cash Flow Financing
Improve liquidity and manage day-to-day operations.
Acquisition Financing
Fund business purchases and expansions.
Equipment Financing
Acquire machinery and technology with manageable payments.
Leasing
Flexible lease options for equipment and assets.
Start-up Loans
Tailored funding designed for new businesses.
Real Estate Loans
Finance commercial property purchases or developments.
Bridge Financing
Short-term funding to cover gaps until long-term financing arrives.
Purchase Order (PO) Financing
Secure funding to fulfill large customer orders.
Export/Trade Financing
Support for international trade transactions.
Construction Loans
Financing to support building and development projects.
Grants
Free funding from governments for specific projects with no repayment required.
Bank Financing
Bank financing is often a key component when purchasing a business, providing buyers with the capital needed to complete the transaction and support future growth. However, securing the right loan can be complex, with varying requirements, terms, and structures to consider. Partnering with experienced advisors who understand both the acquisition process and the lending landscape can help you identify the best financing options that align with your goals. With the right guidance, you can move forward with confidence, knowing your funding strategy supports a successful purchase. See the Big 5 banks below for more information on available financing programs.
- Other (National, CWB)
Other Sources of Credit
BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada)
Flexible, long-term financing tailored to entrepreneurs, supporting higher-risk or growth businesses.
CSBFP (Canada Small Business Financing Program)
Government-guaranteed loans through banks/credit unions; ideal for equipment, leasehold improvements, and real estate.
Community Futures
Rural-focused, flexible loans and support for startups and existing businesses in local communities.
WeBC (formerly Women’s Enterprise Centre)
Financing and advisory support for women entrepreneurs.
Indigenous Financing
Aboriginal Financial Institutions, and regional Indigenous lending programs.
Credit Unions (Vancity, Coast Capital, First CU)
More relationship-driven, sometimes more flexible than banks.
Alternative Lenders
B Lenders
Non-bank institutions (e.g., Bridgewater, Home Trust) with higher rates, more flexible terms.
Private Lenders
Individuals or private funds; faster approvals, very high rates, often last-resort or short-term.
Online Lenders / Fintechs
Faster applications, less security needed (e.g., Thinking Capital, OnDeck, Clearco for e-commerce).
Commercial Lending Brokers
Commercial lending brokers act as intermediaries between businesses and lenders, helping borrowers find the most suitable financing options. They shop the market to compare lenders, negotiate terms on your behalf, and structure solutions tailored to your needs, typically charging a percentage of the funds borrowed as their fee.
