• Alternative Lending for Businesses

    At Camino Financial, we know that traditional financing doesn't always fit the unique needs of entrepreneurs. That's why we specialize in alternative business loans that offer flexibility, speed, and accessibility. Our innovative financing solutions are tailored to empower businesses like yours, ensuring that you have the necessary resources to thrive in today's competitive market.
    Senior businessman smiles confidently, holding tablet, as young woman reviews loan application in modern office workspace
  • What is Alternative Lending?

    Alternative lending refers to non-traditional financing options outside of conventional banks or credit unions. Its main differentiator is that it offers flexible, accessible, and often technology-driven loan solutions for businesses seeking capital.


    Alternative lending is often synonymous with accessible funding options, especially for small businesses that may not qualify for traditional loans.

  • Camino Financial’s Alternative Business Loans

    • Varied loan amounts

    • Fixed

      Interest rates

    • Repayment terms

  • Why Apply With Camino Financial

    We offer a lending experience for businesses seeking alternatives to traditional banks. Our streamlined, transparent process ensures quick and clear access to funds. Whether you're scaling up, tackling new challenges, or seizing unique opportunities, our tailor-made credit product can fit the unique pulse of your business. Let us empower your businesses with an alternative small business loan that is as dynamic and innovative as your vision.
    Smiling executives review tablet in office, team working at table behind
  • Our Basic Business Loan Application Requirements

    Have an SSN

    Minimum credit score of 670

    Business in operation for a minimum of 12 months

    Annual sales above $30,000

    Current on outstanding credit obligations

    No filed tax liens, judgments, credit freezes, or bankruptcies in the past 24 months

    Must operate within permitted industries and states

  • Differences Between Traditional and Alternative Loans

    Alternative LendingTraditional Lending
    SourceOffered primarily by online lenders that utilize technology for the application, assessment, and funding processes.Offered by banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions
    Loan Approval ProcessGenerally quicker, with a streamlined online process. Can take just a few days.Often lengthy, with a lot of paperwork. Can take weeks to months.
    FlexibilityOffers more flexible terms, tailored to individual needs.Generally more rigid in terms and conditions.
    Technology UseHeavily relies on technology for operations, customer interaction, and risk assessment.Increasingly incorporating technology, but still largely operates within a traditional framework.
    AccessibilityMore accessible, especially for underserved or non-traditional borrowers, with entirely online processes.May require a physical presence or may not cater to underserved markets due to strict lending criteria.
    Customer RelationshipOften aims for a more personalized approach, leveraging data and technology to meet customer needs.Relationships can be personal, especially with smaller banks, but often feel transactional.
  • Is Alternative Lending Right for My Business?

    Alternative lending could be the perfect solution for your business if you're looking for fast, flexible funding, often with less paperwork.

    Unlike traditional banks—which may have stringent requirements and lengthy processes—alternative lenders offer a variety of loan products tailored to meet diverse business needs.

    This modern approach to financing is designed to support businesses at every stage, making it a viable choice for those who may not qualify for traditional loans or who need capital more rapidly.

  • Benefits of Camino Financial's Alternative Business Funding

    ● A fully online application process ● Fixed interest rates for the life of your loan ● Our application process safeguards your information ● No fees for paying off the loan early ● Outstanding customer support ● Transparent processing fees
    Two professionals warmly shaking hands in a meeting, signifying a successful funding partnership.
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  • Ways You Can Invest an Alternative Loan

    1

    Expansion projects

    Financing the opening of new locations or expanding the physical size of existing operations.

    2

    Technology upgrades

    Investing in new technology, software, or online platforms to enhance efficiency and customer experience.

    3

    Hiring staff

    Securing funds to hire additional employees during peak seasons or for expanding operations.

    4

    Marketing campaigns

    Funding for advertising or marketing initiatives to reach new markets or boost sales.

    5

    Debt consolidation

    Combining multiple debts into a single loan with potentially lower interest rates and easier management.

    6

    Inventory purchase

    Bulk purchasing or stocking up on inventory before high-demand seasons or to take advantage of supplier discounts.

    7

    Working capital

    Boosting everyday operational funds to cover short-term expenses, such as rent, utilities, and payroll, ensuring smooth business operations.

    Confident professional woman smiling, arms crossed
  • Discover Camino Financial's Convenient Loan Management

    Get a visual overview of loan status. Track payment history and request more capital through your personalized member account portal.
  • How to Apply for Business Funding

  • FAQs

    Alternative loans, offered by non-bank institutions, provide financing to those who may not qualify for traditional loans. They usually have flexible eligibility criteria and can be used for various purposes but often come with higher interest rates and fees. These loans might offer quick approval and flexible terms.

    The better choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances.


    Traditional business loans typically offer lower interest rates and longer repayment terms but require a strong credit history and extensive documentation.


    Alternative business financing is more accessible, especially for businesses with less established credit histories or those needing quick funding, but could come with higher costs and shorter repayment terms.

    Yes. As a BBB-accredited business with an A+ rating and an average of 4.2 stars across more than 400  reviews prove it.

    Camino Financial uses the same technology that banks use to protect your private information.

    • Have a Social Security Number (ITIN is not accepted).

    • Business must have been operational for at least 12 months.

    • A credit score of 670 or higher is required.

    • Specialty Trade Contractors with a FICO score of 650 or above.

    • Must have annual sales exceeding $30,000

    • Must be up-to-date on all existing credit responsibilities.

    • No record of tax liens, judgments, credit .freezes, or bankruptcies in the last 24 months

    • Not operating in prohibited sectors.

    • No businesses that have secured an HCD loan within the previous 90 days.

    • Not located in HI, NJ, PR, MI, NV, or the Caribbean Islands.

    No, you need to be a United States citizen with an SSN to qualify for a business loan through Camino Financial.

    No, we cater our business loans to businesses that have established credit history.

    No, we don’t require any type of collateral, only a UCC lien.

  • Keep Reading

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  • Camino Financial does not extend small business loans to businesses operating within these industries: Transportation, Warehousing, Real estate, Financial investing or processing, Cannabis industries, Adult entertainment, Car dealerships, Credit unions, and other sectors Specialty Trade Contractors require a FICO score of 650 or above. No businesses that have secured an HCD loan within the previous 90 days. Not located in HI, MI, NV, NJ, PR, MA, NY, ND, OH, PA, or TN; plus IN, NE, or WV for Sole Props.

  • Stay connected

    Join a community of over 40,000 micro-entrepreneurs for access to informative resources, helpful tips, and best practices on growing your business

  • Mission-driven company

    Camino Financial is a nationally certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). By partnering with other mission-aligned organizations, Camino Financial is able to pool and distribute low-cost funding and educational resources to underbanked minority-owned businesses. Camino Financial is headquartered in Reston, Virginia with a supporting office in Mexico City, Mexico.

© 2024 by Camino Financial, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Salas & Company LLC dba Camino Financial is a Licensed Finance Lender & Broker in California.
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11600 Sunrise Valley Drive, Reston, VA 20191 | info@caminofinancial.com| Tel (800) 852-0655

NMLS License: Salas & Company LLC #2186459 | CFL License: Salas & Company LLC (DBA Camino Financial) #60DBO-43053

CDFI Certification Number: 181CE054231