California Small Business Loans
Apply in California with no credit score impact. Get funds as soon as the same day.†
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Fast Funding for California Businesses
Running a business in California is highly competitive, with dense local markets and little margin for delay. Whether you're navigating seasonal highs and lows, managing cash flow in a high-cost region, or jumping on a growth opportunity, access to capital can be the difference between maintaining momentum and missing an opportunity.
Fortunately, today’s lending landscape offers faster, more flexible options than a traditional bank. California small business owners can now turn to SBA Express programs, local Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and online lenders to get funding in days, not weeks. From working capital loans to lines of credit and merchant cash advances, there are tools designed to match your business needs.
Business Loan Types in California
California’s diverse economy and complex regulations demand flexible financing options. From tech startups in San Diego to family-run shops in Fresno, the right loan depends on your goals, stage, and cash flow needs. Understanding how these loan options differ can help you choose financing that aligns with your goals and stage of growth.
Business Line of Credit
A revolving credit line that lets you borrow what you need, when you need it — and only pay interest on what you use. Ideal for managing cash flow gaps, covering payroll, or funding short-term needs for California-based service businesses.
Business Term Loan
A business term loan is a lump sum of capital repaid over a set period. Great for larger investments like renovations, expansion, or refinancing. Term loans are often used by California businesses that want predictable payments and a clear payoff timeline.
SBA Loan
Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA loans (including SBA 7(a) and SBA 504) offer longer terms and lower interest rates. They’re often used for real estate, equipment purchases, or start-up costs — but approval can take longer.
Equipment Financing
Used to purchase or upgrade equipment, equipment financing lets you spread costs over time while keeping your operation running. Especially useful for restaurants, agriculture or commercial services in California that rely on up-to-date tools or vehicles.
Merchant Cash Advance
For businesses with strong card sales, a merchant cash advance offers quick funding repaid via a percentage of daily transactions. This funding type could be a fit for retail or hospitality businesses needing short-term working capital with flexible repayment.
Cash Flow Loans
Designed to cover operating expenses when revenue is delayed, cash flow loans rely more on your incoming funds than on collateral. A common choice for California businesses experiencing rapid growth or seasonal slowdowns.
What business loans are available through OnDeck in California?1
OnDeck has two funding options for business owners in the Golden State. After you apply, a loan advisor will let you know if you are eligible for a line of credit, a term loan or both.
OnDeck Line of Credit
A revolving credit line you can draw from 24/7 to receive funds within seconds.*
- Credit limits from $6K - $200K
- Flexible repayment terms of 12, 18 or 24 months
- Great for keeping funds on hand
OnDeck Term Loan
A one-time lump sum of cash with an eventual option to apply for more.
- Loan amounts from $5K - $400K
- Repayment terms up to 24 months
- Great for larger investments in your business
1In California, funding through OnDeck is issued by Celtic Bank.
How to apply for a California business loan.
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Step 1
Complete the application.
Our streamlined process is designed to be completed in just minutes.
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Step 2
Get a decision.
Work with an expert loan advisor to discuss eligibility and choose the best funding option for you.
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Step 3
Receive your funds.
Sign your contract and get funds sent to your bank account as soon as the same day.†
California Businesses OnDeck Serves
OnDeck has experience supporting small businesses across California, working with companies at different stages of growth across a wide range of industries. We understand the unique challenges California businesses face, from managing day-to-day operations to navigating periods of expansion in a fast-moving economy. Some of the most common industries we work with in California include:
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HVAC (plumbing, heating, AC)
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Admin Management and Consulting Services
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Real Estate and Brokers
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Lawyers
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Electricians
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Marketing Consulting
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For a list of industries OnDeck does not serve, view our Restricted Industries page.
FAQs: California Business Loans
Eligibility varies by lender and loan type, but most small business borrowers in California need to meet some common criteria. This includes being a U.S.-based, legally registered for-profit business, with at least 12 months in business, sufficient revenue and a qualifying credit score.
SBA loans require more: you must meet size standards, show a financing need, and be a U.S. citizen. These loans typically come with stricter documentation requirements.
California-specific programs, like CalCAP or the IBank Small Business Loan Guarantee Program, are often more flexible than SBA loans. They’re designed to support businesses with limited access to capital, often through loan guarantees or risk-sharing programs — including start-ups, lower-credit borrowers and those in underserved regions.
Requirements vary, so check directly with the lender before you apply.
California business owners have access to a wide range of loan types — from government-backed programs to fast, online alternatives. Small business loans in California generally fall into a few core categories, each offering different tradeoffs in terms of speed, flexibility and long-term cost. Core categories include:
SBA loans. Backed by the federal government, often used for larger purchases or real estate.
Bank or credit union loans. Brick-and-mortar lenders that often offer term loans, lines of credit and working capital funding.
CDFIs and nonprofit loans. Brick-and-mortar lenders that often offer term loans, lines of credit and working capital funding.
Online business loans. Online lenders offer small business funding in a quicker, easier manner than business loans offered by the bank or through the SBA.
Alternative financing. Revenue-based funding like merchant cash advances or invoice factoring.
Choosing the right option comes down to speed, flexibility and cost — and California business owners typically need to weigh all three.
Yes, the state of California offers several small business loan programs designed to expand access to capital:
IBank Small Business Loan Guarantee Program. Helps reduce lender risk and support approval for more businesses.
Jump Start Loan Program. Offers microloans through local Financial Development Corporations (FDCs).
CalCAP. Supports businesses with microloans, small business loans and collateral support for businesses that need help qualifying for traditional financing.
GoGreen Financing. Targets energy efficiency improvements and green upgrades.
Technical Assistance for Capital Readiness Program. Invests in businesses with fewer than 10 employees, small manufacturing companies and businesses owned by people from underserved communities.
Applying for a small business loan in California is simpler than you might think — especially with online lenders and state matching programs.
Here’s how the process works:
- Define your funding needs and purpose.
- Check your business credit score (and personal).
- Gather key documents: tax returns, bank statements, licenses, your business plan and your EIN.
- Use tools like SBA Lender Match to find a lender.
- Apply directly — online or through a loan advisor.
- Review and accept your offer once approved.
If you’re unsure which documents are required, reach out to OnDeck or another lender for guidance.
It depends. Traditional banks tend to prioritize strong credit scores, but many online lenders like OnDeck, and some California state programs look at a broader picture. That includes revenue, time in business and cash flow.
Options like merchant cash advances, revenue-based loans or state-supported guarantees (like CalCAP) may help entrepreneurs access funding even with lower credit.
Over time, repaying a business loan on schedule — even a smaller one — can help improve your business credit profile and expand your future options.