Explore funding

Common funding options, in plain language

Each option below explains what it is, what needs it may fit, and questions to ask about eligibility, costs, repayment, and restrictions. No funding is guaranteed, and approval always depends on the provider.

What do you need funding for?

Optional. This organizes the educational information below—it does not predict eligibility or recommend a particular lender.

Business loans

What it is

Money borrowed from a bank or other lender and repaid with interest on a set schedule.

What it may fit

Larger, defined purchases—such as equipment—or growth plans with a clear cost.

Questions to ask

  • What are the eligibility requirements?
  • What is the total cost of borrowing, including interest and fees?
  • What is the repayment schedule?
  • Is collateral or a personal guarantee required?

Business lines of credit

What it is

Flexible access to money up to a set limit. You draw what you need and typically pay interest only on what you use.

What it may fit

Ongoing or uneven costs, such as everyday operating expenses or bridging slow months.

Questions to ask

  • What is the credit limit and how is it set?
  • What interest rate and fees apply to what I draw?
  • Are there requirements to keep the line open?
  • What happens if I miss a payment?

SBA-backed loans

What it is

Loans made by participating lenders and partially guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The SBA sets guidelines, but the loan comes from the lender, not directly from the SBA. Programs include 7(a), 504, and microloans.

What it may fit

A range of needs—starting, operating, equipment, or expansion—depending on the specific program.

Questions to ask

  • Which SBA program fits my situation, and am I eligible?
  • What will the lender require for the application?
  • What are the total costs, fees, and repayment terms?
  • SBA-backed loans are loans, not grants—can my business repay this debt?

Grants and targeted programs

What it is

Money that typically does not need to be repaid. Grants are limited and usually restricted to specific purposes, industries, or eligibility criteria. The SBA states that it does not provide grants for starting and expanding a business; some of its grants go to organizations that support entrepreneurs.

What it may fit

Specific situations that match a program’s stated purpose—not general startup or expansion costs.

Questions to ask

  • What exactly may this grant pay for, and who is eligible?
  • What is the application deadline and process?
  • Are there reporting or matching-fund requirements?
  • Is this offer from a verifiable official source? Be cautious of anyone guaranteeing a grant for a fee.

Community lenders and microloans

What it is

Smaller loans from nonprofit or community-based lenders. SBA microloans provide up to $50,000 through SBA-approved intermediary lenders, which make the credit decisions and set terms. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) are specialized institutions that serve low-income communities and people who lack access to traditional financing.

What it may fit

Smaller amounts, newer businesses, or owners who may not qualify for traditional bank financing.

Questions to ask

  • What is the maximum loan size and what can it pay for?
  • What are the interest rate, fees, and repayment terms?
  • Does the lender offer coaching or application help?
  • Is this lender a recognized intermediary or certified CDFI?

Grants are limited and often have specific eligibility rules or permitted uses. Not every business qualifies for a grant, SBA-backed loans are loans rather than grants, and no funding is guaranteed.

Wisconsin & local resources

These resources serve specific geographic areas—check each one’s scope. Directories are labeled as directories and guidance providers as guidance providers.

Local — Menomonee Falls, WI

Village of Menomonee Falls — Prospective Businesses

A village contact and information page for businesses looking to locate, open, or expand in Menomonee Falls. Village staff can share information on possible financing resources, permitting, and community connections. It is a starting point for questions, not a funding application.

Visit official page

Local — Menomonee Falls, WI

Village of Menomonee Falls — Development Programs

An overview of local economic-development tools, including loan funds, tax increment financing, and industrial revenue bonds, plus partnerships with county and state organizations. It is a guide to programs and partners rather than a single grant or offer—ask the village about current availability and eligibility.

Visit official page

Statewide — Wisconsin

WEDC — Start In Wisconsin

An online directory of entrepreneur-support organizations and networking resources across Wisconsin, with a calendar of events. It is a directory that helps you find guidance providers; it does not itself provide funding.

Visit official page

Links checked October 2026.