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A Guide to Alternative Investments


Alternative Investments 101

SoFi’s Alt Investment Guide for Beginners

Alternative investments — which fall outside the realm of conventional assets like stocks and bonds — were once considered too high risk for ordinary investors. Now alternative strategies are becoming more accessible through mutual funds and ETFs, and may even be available in some employer-sponsored retirement plans starting in 2026.

Thanks to their low correlation with traditional asset classes, alternatives may offer investors certain benefits. Alts can increase portfolio diversification, which may help offset some risk factors and improve risk-adjusted returns.

Alts include a range of assets including commodities, art, and collectibles, as well as alternative strategies such as investing in derivatives, real estate, private equity, and more.

Because alts tend to be very complex, fairly illiquid, and high risk, these investments do require careful management. To that end, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of some of the most common alternative investment choices.

Many colorful objects, small toys, chess pieces sit on platforms, representing the complexity of alternative investments.

Alternative Investments: An Overview

The term “alternative” refers to investments that are alternatives to conventional strategies — not necessarily substitutes for them. To invest wisely in alts, it’s important to consider the potential risks and benefits of these assets. Alts tend to be complex, lightly regulated, and less transparent than other asset classes.

In addition, investors should bear in mind that alts can differ widely from one another in terms of their structure, fees, liquidity, tax treatment, and more.

what are alt investments

What Are Alternative Investments?

what are alt investments

Why Do Alternative Investments Matter?

Ways to Invest in Real Estate Funds

Real estate is a common type of alternative investment because real estate values tend not to correlate with stock market performance, and thus they may provide a potential buffer against volatility. You can invest in various types of properties directly, or buy shares of publicly traded Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), as well as mutual funds and ETFs that provide access to this asset class.

pros and cons of reits

How to Invest in Real Estate: A Beginner’s Guide

pros and cons of reits

What’s a Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) and How to Invest In One

pros and cons of reits

Pros & Cons of Investing in REITs

Exploring Commodity Funds

Commodities are raw materials (e.g., precious metals, oil and gas, agricultural products) that are used in manufacturing or for consumption. Owing to the relatively steady demand for most commodities, these can be a hedge against inflation. That said, demand for different commodities can fluctuate — and commodities can be vulnerable to environmental and political risks.

Investors can access commodities via commodity stocks, mutual funds, and ETFs.

what are commodities

What Are Commodities? How Do They Fit Into the Stock Market?

how to invest in commodities

How to Invest in Commodities

commodities trading guide for beginners

Commodities Trading Guide for Beginners

The World of Foreign Currency Funds

Foreign currency investing, often referred to as forex, is one of the largest and most liquid global markets. Forex trading offers the potential for diversification and tends to cost less than other types of alts. That noted, trading currencies directly can be quite volatile, and investors may prefer the relative stability of mutual funds or ETFs that provide exposure to foreign currencies.

investing tips and options for retirement

The Essential Guide to Investing in Foreign Currency

how to rebalance your 401k

What Is Forex Trading?
A Guide for Beginners

what is a currency carry trade in forex markets

What Is a Currency Carry Trade in Forex Markets?

Overview of Private Equity and Venture Capital Funds

Private equity provides investors with an opportunity to own a stake in smaller and early-stage companies that need capital to regain their footing, make a pivot, or (in the case of venture capital) get off to a strong start. As such, the risks of many PE and VC projects tend to be high — although there is also the potential for substantial profits when companies succeed.

High investment minimums have made it difficult for retailers to access these investments, but that has been changing as more private equity funds are designed with retail investors in mind.

investing tips and options for retirement

What Is Private Equity?

how to rebalance your 401k

Venture Capital: What Is It and How Does It Work?

private equity vs venture capital

Private Equity vs Venture Capital: What’s the Difference?

Understanding Private Credit

Private credit is a form of lending from non-bank financial institutions. Sometimes called direct lending or private debt, private credit allows smaller companies to seek financing via channels outside of traditional bank loans.

Private credit can be a boon to businesses by supplying much-needed capital. And, as a type of alternative investment, it can create opportunities for investors who pool funds in order to issue loans — which in turn generate income for investors through interest payments. Private credit may utilize a range of strategies, each with its own risk and reward factors, so it’s important to understand the structures involved.

what is private credit

What Is Private Credit?

private credit vs private equity

Private Credit vs. Private Equity: What’s the Difference?

private equity vs venture capital

What Is an Interval Fund?

New Vehicles for Alternative Investments

Today, alternative investment options are rapidly evolving to provide lower-cost, more liquid choices for retail investors through mutual funds, ETFs, and other vehicles (including some retirement accounts), many of them offered by well-established asset managers.

As always, investors need to do their due diligence to understand the potential pros and cons of these investments.

investing tips and options for retirement

ETFs vs Mutual Funds: Learning the Difference

how to rebalance your 401k

Understanding the Different Types of Mutual Funds

mutual funds vs stocks

Mutual Funds vs Stocks: Differences and How to Choose

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Liz Looks at: Good Signs in Markets

Don’t Fight the Tide

Last week I was upbeat that the market environment remains resilient and positive, even with the recent geopolitical volatility. This week, I continue to see encouraging signals about cyclicality and broadening strength.

The consensus call continues to be that markets will experience a broadening out in 2026, bringing parts that have been underloved back into the spotlight. My take has been similar, due to solid growth and earnings expectations, a Federal Reserve that appears at-the-ready to provide liquidity when necessary, and an investing environment that continues to be optimistic about AI.

But are markets demonstrating that same optimism?…To gauge the market mood, let’s look at some classic examples of positive signs.

On a broad index basis, the gap between the market-cap weighted S&P 500 and the equal-weighted S&P 500 has closed considerably this month. This can be seen as confirmation that broadening strength is underway, as other stocks outside of the Mag 7 and mega-cap tech are finding upside.



Pedal to the Metal

Another indicator that markets are feeling constructive? The activity in Industrial Metals commodities and Materials stocks. When economies are in a cyclical expansionary period, we would expect a reaction from these areas, which are closely related because many of the materials stocks are tied to mining.

Year-to-date, both Industrial Metals (copper, aluminum, nickel, zinc, and lead) and the Materials sector have had very strong results, with industrial metals up 6.9% and Materials up 7.3%. The S&P, on the other hand, is only up 1.2%.



Sectors like Industrials and Energy have also come out of the gates strong in 2026.

Value As the Top Dog?

I’m hesitant to point this signal out for fear of jinxing it, but value stocks are having a moment. Investors have been waiting for them to beat growth stocks for over 15 years. There have been many false starts, and this may prove to be another one, but very quietly the Russell 1000 Value index has outperformed the Russell 1000 Growth index since markets hit a rough patch in November.



This is yet another indication that other stocks in the universe are finding their way into investors’ portfolios and may continue to do so as the year progresses. This isn’t to say that growth stocks are unattractive; I still believe they are the lifeblood of this market. Consumer and investor sentiment relies on growth stocks to continue producing solid results and to keep AI optimism alive.

But perhaps finally we are in a market environment where diversifying into other sectors can be a fruitful approach. Doing so would quell some investor fears about market concentration, and serve as an encouraging sign that stocks with more attractive valuations can produce attractive results. It’s certainly a theme I’m willing to stick with this year.

 
 
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Want more insights from Liz? The Important Part: Investing With Liz Thomas, a podcast from SoFi, takes listeners through today’s top-of-mind themes in investing and breaks them down into digestible and actionable pieces.

Listen & Subscribe


photo credit: iStock/MicroStockHub

SoFi can’t guarantee future financial performance, and past performance is no indication of future success. This information isn’t financial advice. Investment decisions should be based on specific financial needs, goals and risk appetite.

Communication of SoFi Wealth LLC an SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Information about SoFi Wealth’s advisory operations, services, and fees is set forth in SoFi Wealth’s current Form ADV Part 2 (Brochure), a copy of which is available upon request and at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov. Liz Thomas is a Registered Representative of SoFi Securities and Investment Advisor Representative of SoFi Wealth. Form ADV 2A is available at www.sofi.com/legal/adv.

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SoFi Plus Crypto 1% Match

NEW!

Get a 1% match on
crypto buys,
and start
the new year strong.

SoFi Plus members get an exclusive 1% match on crypto buys
with their SoFi Crypto accounts, paid out in stablecoin.
Offer ends 3/30/26.1

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name: ‘onClose’,
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actionUrl: ‘/crypto/trade?orderOperation=BUY/’
}));
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Start trading

Complimentary Plus Members with Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits or a $10/mo subscription are eligible for this promotion. Funds must be net-new and originate from the members’ SoFi Checking and Savings account to execute crypto buys by 3/30/26.

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There’s crypto—
and then there’s
crypto with SoFi.

Make trades instantly.

Transfer funds from your SoFi Checking and Savings to your SoFi Crypto account the moment you’re ready to trade.

Get a 1% match on crypto
buys—for a limited time.

Want to kick-start your crypto for the new year? Get a 1% match on your buys through 3/30/26.1

Own crypto—and bank, borrow,
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How to start earning
your 1% match.



  • Join SoFi Plus.

    Subscribe to 20+ perks adding up to over $1,000 in annual value2 with qualifying activities—for just $10/month.3 Subscribe to SoFi Plus now.



  • Open a SoFi Crypto account.

    Open a SoFi Crypto account, offered through SoFi Bank, N.A.



  • Buy crypto with SoFi.

    Instantly fund from your SoFi Checking and Savings account to buy crypto. As long as you’re a SoFi Plus member with an active SoFi Crypto account, you’re eligible for a 1% match on crypto buys through 3/30/26.

{/* get more from your money */}

Get more from your money
with SoFi Plus.

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(window.Android || window.callbackHandler).postMessage(JSON.stringify({
name: ‘onClose’,
value: ‘onClose’,
actionUrl: ‘/crypto/trade?orderOperation=BUY/’
}));
}}
>

Start trading

Complimentary Plus Members with Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits or a $10/mo subscription are eligible for this promotion. Funds must be net-new and originate from the members’ SoFi Checking and Savings account to execute crypto buys by 3/30/26.

Earn 3.30% APY on SoFi Bank savings balances.4

Schedule unlimited 1:1 sessions with financial planners via SoFi Wealth.6

Get a 10% boost on SoFi Credit Card rewards—that’s up to 3.3% cash back rewards.5

Get 3% cash back rewards points on SoFi Travel bookings (excluding airfare) with any card.7

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(window.Android || window.callbackHandler).postMessage(JSON.stringify({
name: ‘onClose’,
value: ‘onClose’,
actionUrl: ‘/crypto/trade?orderOperation=BUY/’
}));
}}
>

Start trading

Complimentary Plus Members with Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits or a $10/mo subscription are eligible for this promotion. Funds must be net-new and originate from the members’ SoFi Checking and Savings account to execute crypto buys by 3/30/26.

{/* FAQs */}

FAQs



What are the specific promotion phases?


The 1% Crypto Match Promotion runs from January 15, 2026 through December 31, 2026 and is divided into two phases.

  1. Offer Phase (Buying Window): Jan 15, 2026 (9:00 a.m. ET) – March 30, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET).
  2. Holding Phase (Holding Window): March 31, 2026 (12:00 a.m. ET) – December 31, 2026 (11:59 p.m. ET).




How do I qualify for this promotion?


To be eligible for this Promotion, you must be a SoFi Plus member AND participate in BOTH the Offer Phase and Holding Phase to receive the 1% match bonus.



What is an eligible crypto buy?


An eligible crypto buy is a successful SoFi Crypto purchase transaction, funded directly from your Sofi Checking and Savings, to buy Supported Digital Assets.



How will I receive my 1% Match bonus?


SoFi Plus members can earn a 1% Match on “Net Funded Crypto Buys” made through SoFi Bank, N.A., capped at a total buy volume of $250,000.

  • Eligible crypto buys must be funded directly from your SoFi Checking & Savings. Incoming crypto transfers do not qualify.
  • The 1% Match is based on the total USD value of eligible crypto buys made during the Offer Phase, MINUS the notional value of any cash or digital asset withdrawals from your SoFi Crypto accountant any time before Dec 31, 2026.

Selling digital assets does not reduce your match amount provided the proceeds remain in your SoFi Crypto account or are used to buy other digital assets.



When will I be paid my 1% Match bonus?


The 1% Match payout will be paid in a one-time bonus, in stablecoin, credited to the member’s SoFi Crypto account. 1% Match bonus payments will begin at the conclusion of the promotion period on or around January 2027.



Is there a penalty for withdrawing funds and/or assets?


Yes, funds and/or digital assets must remain in your SoFi Crypto account through 12/31/26 to be eligible for the 1% match bonus. If you withdraw funds and/or digital assets before 12/31/26 you will be subject to a reduced or forfeiture of your eligible 1% crypto match.

Examples

Scenario 1 – Standard Buy and Hold
A SoFi Plus Member executes $1,000 worth of crypto buys during Offer Phase and holds the digital assets on platform through Dec 31, 2026.

1% Match: $10 in stablecoin.

Scenario 2 – Cash/Digital Asset Withdrawal
A SoFi Plus Member executes $1,000 worth of crypto buys during Offer Phase and withdraws $500 (cash or digital asset withdrawal) before Dec 31, 2026.
1% Match: $5 in stablecoin1% of the remaining $500 net funded amount

Scenario 3 – Trading/Rebalancing Portfolio

A SoFi Plus Member executes a $1,000 BTC crypto buy. Later, sells $500 of BTC to buy ETH. No withdrawals made and holds digital assets on platform through Dec 31, 2026.

1% Match: $10 in stablecoin1% Match based on original net funding for crypto buys

Scenario 4 – Market Value Changes

A SoFi Plus Member executes $1,000 worth of crypto buys. Market drops portfolio value to $800. No withdrawals made and digital assets held on platform through Dec 31 2026.

1% Match: $10 in stablecoinMarket performance does not affect 1% match payout.

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(window.Android || window.callbackHandler).postMessage(JSON.stringify({
name: ‘onClose’,
value: ‘onClose’,
actionUrl: ‘/crypto/trade?orderOperation=BUY/’
}));
}}
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Start trading

{/* rescue */}

Get a 1% match on crypto buys—
exclusively with SoFi Plus.

Earn a 1% match on crypto through 3/30/26.

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(window.Android || window.callbackHandler).postMessage(JSON.stringify({
name: ‘onClose’,
value: ‘onClose’,
actionUrl: ‘/crypto/trade?orderOperation=BUY/’
}));
}}
>

Start trading

Complimentary Plus Members with Eligible Direct Deposit or Qualifying Deposits or a $10/mo subscription are eligible for this promotion. Funds must be net-new and originate
from the members’ SoFi Checking and Savings account to execute crypto buys by 3/30/26.

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After Caribbean Mess, Should You Get Travel Insurance?

This article appeared in SoFi's On the Money newsletter. Not getting it? Sign up here.

Have current events got you thinking twice about travelling?

The U.S. military action in Venezuela earlier this month was a massive geopolitical story, but it was also a major disruption on the travel front. Because of Venezuela’s proximity to the Caribbean, hundreds of flights to and from popular getaway spots had to be cancelled during a peak vacation week. According to press reports, thousands of stranded travelers were left scrambling to rejigger their plans and pick up the costs of an extra long stay.

The chaos was a flashpoint that highlighted a broader vulnerability: From an America First foreign policy to sudden natural disasters and record-long government shutdowns, travelling feels less predictable.

So how do you protect yourself without staying home?

Travel insurance can cover the cost of vacation disruptions, but you need to understand what kind to get and when. (Squaremouth, an online travel insurance marketplace, had a 49% jump in quotes the weekend of the Venezuela raid compared with the previous weekend.)

A few must-knows:

•  Travel insurance is typically heavy on what’s known as exclusions, aka circumstances it won’t cover. Depending on the plan, these can include military activities, civil unrest, or terrorism (especially if you’re traveling somewhere where there’s a travel warning in place,) or a hurricane you know is coming to your area. Make sure you read the fine print and know exactly what you’re getting before you buy.

•  There are many different types of travel insurance. These include trip interruption policies, which cover delays and snags while you’re already on your trip, trip cancellation, which covers cancelling before you start your trip (like if you’ve decided to hold off on flying to the Caribbean,) or a more comprehensive policy that covers both.

•  The cost depends on the cost of your trip. A comprehensive policy can cost 4% to 10% of your non-refundable travel costs. So if you’re taking a $10,000 vacation, you might pay $400 to $1,000.

•  ‘Any Reason’ add-ons do exist: Reading the fine print and asking the right questions will avoid misunderstandings, but if you want your protection to be foolproof, you may be able to upgrade to include coverage that will apply no matter what. ‘Cancel for Any Reason and ‘Interruption for Any Reason coverage cost more (40% to 50% more in the case of CFAR) and usually reimburse only 50% to 75% of your travel costs, according to Squaremouth.

Related Reading

War, Booze and Mopeds: Travel Insurance Coverage Gaps That May Surprise You (CNBC)

Travel Nightmares: How Travel Insurance Can Help (Squaremouth)

Should You Buy Travel Insurance? (Insurance Information Institute)


Please understand that this information provided is general in nature and shouldn’t be construed as a recommendation or solicitation of any products offered by SoFi’s affiliates and subsidiaries. In addition, this information is by no means meant to provide investment or financial advice, nor is it intended to serve as the basis for any investment decision or recommendation to buy or sell any asset. Keep in mind that investing involves risk, and past performance of an asset never guarantees future results or returns. It’s important for investors to consider their specific financial needs, goals, and risk profile before making an investment decision.

The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. These links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement. No brands or products mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this content.

SoFi isn't recommending and is not affiliated with the brands or companies displayed. Brands displayed neither endorse or sponsor this article. Third party trademarks and service marks referenced are property of their respective owners.

OTM20260114SW

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Learn All About Small Business Loans in Kansas

Kansas is home to more than 273,000 small businesses, which account for approximately 99.1% of all enterprises in the state. From the aviation manufacturing plants in Wichita to the vast agricultural operations on the western plains, these companies employ nearly half of the state’s workforce.

Whether you’re launching a new ag-tech venture or expanding a logistics company in Kansas City, finding small business loans in Kansas can be a key step in your business’s development. Here’s what you need to know about securing financing for your company.

  • Key Points
  • •  The GrowKS Loan Fund uses federal funds to provide matching loans to startups and underserved businesses in both urban and rural areas.
  • •  Aviation and aerospace manufacturers in Kansas may rely on equipment financing to acquire precision machinery.
  • •  Agricultural producers can utilize lines of credit to manage operational costs during seasonal planting and harvesting cycles.
  • •  Kansas’s Job Creation Fund program grants funding to companies that create jobs or engage in other forms of business development.
  • •  The Small Business Administration (SBA) backs a wide variety of lending products designed to meet the needs of companies of different sizes and at different moments in their development.

Popular Types of Small Business Loans in Kansas

Entrepreneurs in the Sunflower State can benefit from a supportive network of public and private lending options designed to fuel growth. The following sections outline the most common funding options available to business owners across Kansas.

Kansas Small Business Loan Programs

The state actively fosters economic development through NetWork Kansas, a statewide collective of nonprofit organizations and lenders. It administers the GrowKS Loan Fund, which matches private capital to help companies secure funding to launch or expand, with an emphasis on underserved communities.

Term Loans

With a term loan, a lender provides a small business with an upfront lump sum of capital. Over a specified period (the term), the borrower then makes regular payments to repay the principal and interest, which is usually charged at a fixed rate. This structure can make a term loan an appealing option for financing large, one-time investments with predictable costs. For example, a logistics firm in Overland Park might use a term loan to expand its distribution center.

Business Lines of Credit

In contrast with a term loan, a business line of credit can provide you with access to a revolving pool of funds that you can draw from as you need, up to a predetermined limit. Generally, you pay interest only on the money you actually withdraw, and as you repay the balance, you replenish the pool of funds and the money becomes available for withdrawal again.

Lines of credit can be helpful for businesses that have seasonal lulls or uneven cash flow. For example, a wheat farmer in Salina could use a line of credit to cover fuel and labor costs before the harvest checks arrive.

Equipment Financing

If your business needs a specific physical asset, like machinery, vehicles, or technology, you might want to apply for equipment financing. An aerospace supplier in Wichita could use equipment financing to finance a new CNC machine, while a construction company in Topeka might use it to acquire a new loader.

Since the equipment itself serves as collateral for the lender, equipment financing loans may be easier to obtain than unsecured loans. What’s more, they often come with more favorable terms, too.

SBA Loans

SBA loans are provided by private lenders, but they’re partially guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration. This federal backing lowers risk for the lender, and as a result, the loan conditions may permit lower down payments and longer repayment terms than other types of loan. If you qualify, these Kansas business loans are available through many approved banks and credit unions.

Here are some types of SBA loans commonly used by small businesses.

•  The SBA 7(a) loan. The 7(a) loan is very flexible: Amounts can range from $500 to $5 million. It’s suitable for covering working capital, refinancing debt, or purchasing supplies.

•  The SBA 504 loan is specifically meant for companies to use on major fixed assets, such as commercial real estate or heavy equipment. The maximum amount is between $5 million and $5.5 million.

•  The SBA Microloan is meant to help with short-term needs and can be useful to companies that need startup loans. You can borrow up to $50,000 and the maximum repayment term is seven years.

An SBA loan calculator can help you estimate what your loan costs might be for different kinds of SBA funding.

Recommended: Small Business Financing Guide

How to Apply for a Small Business Loan in Kansas

When your company is applying for Kansas small business loans, prospective lenders generally want you to provide them with an in-depth, easy-to-understand rundown of your company’s financials and a defined plan for how you’d spend the funds you receive.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply for a small business loan in Kansas.

Define Your Loan Purpose and Amount

Before you start contacting lenders, it may be beneficial to have a precise understanding of your funding needs. You should be able to articulate exactly how much money your business needs, what it will be used for, and how it will generate a return. A specific proposal, such as “$50,000 to upgrade our grain storage facilities, which we anticipate will reduce spoilage by 5%,” demonstrates to lenders that you’re thinking strategically and being financially prudent.

Know Your Credit Score

When reviewing your Kansas business loan application, prospective lenders will generally pay particular attention to your company’s credit profile. They’ll probably analyze your personal credit scores, too: Traditional banks often require a credit score for a business loan in the range of 680 or higher. Other lenders, like online banks, may be willing to look at slightly lower scores.

Because of your scores’ importance, it may be beneficial to review your credit reports before you apply so that you can find any errors and have them fixed — and be sure you fully understand your financial situation before you submit your application for a Kansas small business loan.

Gather Your Key Documents

Handing in an application package that’s organized and complete can speed up the review process and signal to a potential lender that you’re a motivated, reliable borrower. While requirements will vary among lenders, you’re likely to be asked for some or all of the following:

•  Credit report

•  Income statement

•  Bank statements

•  Budget

•  Income tax returns (both business and personal)

•  Business plan

•  Collateral valuation and supporting documents (which may include titles, deeds, or invoices)

Compare Lenders and Loan Offers

When you’re looking at Kansas small business loans, shopping around can help you find the financing that best suits your needs, since different banks can offer very different options on term loans, for instance. It may also be a good idea to compare offers from multiple kinds of sources, including small local banks, large national institutions, and online lenders.

As you evaluate financing proposals, it may be helpful to use a business loan calculator to estimate the monthly payments for different options. It may also be a good idea to look closely at the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of each loan to understand its true cost.

Submit Your Application and Await Approval

After you’ve filled out the application form and gathered your supporting documentation, you’ll probably be ready to submit the application package. Once that’s done, you’ll need to wait for the lender’s response. This can take as little as two days in some cases, but may take several weeks or even months in others.

Grow Your Business the Right Way.
Explore small business funding options in one place with no impact to your credit score.*

Grow Your Business the Right Way.
Explore small business funding options in one place with no impact to your credit score.*

Grow Your Business the Right Way.
Explore small business funding options in one place with no impact to your credit score.*

Tips for Improving Your Loan Approval Chances

You might be able to boost your odds of securing a loan by taking steps to strengthen your company’s financial profile before you apply for it. Lenders usually want to see evidence of your business’s stability as well as its ability to repay the loan. Presenting a financially strong, low-risk profile could help you win a lender’s confidence.

Here are a few steps to consider:

•  Ensure that your business plan is realistic and includes detailed financial projections.

•  Pay down credit balances and make all your payments on time to work toward strengthening your business and personal credit scores.

•  If you have available collateral, consider offering it as security to potentially bolster your application’s chance for approval with certain Kansas business loans.

Other Funding Options for Kansas Small Businesses

If a traditional loan isn’t the right fit for your needs, there may be other ways to fund your business. Kansas’s entrepreneurial ecosystem offers several alternative paths for acquiring capital. One of these options may align better with your company’s stage of growth or industry.

Small business grants are a highly sought-after option because they don’t require repayment. The Kansas Department of Commerce offers a number of grants, including the Job Creation Fund, which awards funds to companies that create jobs or engage in other forms of business development. It can also be helpful to search national databases like Grants.gov to find federal programs relevant to your industry.

Crowdfunding can be another viable route, potentially allowing you to raise smaller amounts of capital online from a broad base of supporters.

Additional Business Resources in Kansas

Succeeding in business often takes more than just funding; it requires expert guidance and a supportive community. Kansas has a broad network of resources designed to help small business owners navigate challenges. The Kansas Small Business Development Center (Kansas SBDC) is a notable resource, offering no-cost advising at regional centers across the state.

For mentorship, local SCORE chapters connect entrepreneurs with experienced business leaders who volunteer their time. Additionally, NetWork Kansas creates eCommunities that can provide local loan funds and specialized training.

Engaging with your local Chamber of Commerce may also help you find valuable networking opportunities.

The Takeaway

Securing a Kansas small business loan can be the decisive factor that allows your company to expand and thrive. While the process involves careful planning, it can be an important step in the entrepreneurial journey. By defining your goals and utilizing state resources, you may ultimately be able to find the right financing solution for your business.


If you’re seeking financing for your business, SoFi is here to support you. On SoFi’s marketplace, you can shop and compare financing options for your business in minutes.


With one simple search, see if you qualify and explore quotes for your business.



Search for financing

(without impacting your credit score)

FAQ

How do I get a small business loan in Kansas?

To apply for Kansas business loans, start by defining your funding needs and checking your credit scores. Next, gather essential documents like your business plan, tax returns, and bank statements to have ready as you fill out and submit your application. Finally, compare offers from various lenders to find the best terms for your business needs.

Can I get a startup business loan with no money?

This can be challenging, since most lenders require an owner’s investment. However, some SBA microloans that are designed for startups often have lower capital requirements. Another option can be to research business grants, which provide funding that doesn’t have to be repaid.

How hard is it to get a small business loan in Kansas?

The degree of difficulty will depend on your business’s financial health, time in operation, and credit history. Traditional bank loans can be hard to qualify for. Online lenders often offer more flexible requirements, making them a more accessible option for many Kansas businesses.

What is the easiest type of business loan to get approved for?

Loans secured by collateral, such as equipment financing loans, are generally easier to obtain because the asset reduces the lender’s risk. Short-term loans and invoice financing from online lenders may also have less stringent requirements.

What credit score do I need for a small business loan?

Requirements vary, but for traditional bank and SBA loans, a personal credit score of 680 or higher is often preferred. However, some online lenders may approve applicants with scores in the low 600s. Bear in mind that higher scores can also often result in better approval odds and lower interest rates.

What can I use a Kansas small business loan for?

You can use Kansas business loans for almost any legitimate business purpose. Common uses include purchasing inventory, buying equipment, funding marketing campaigns, or refinancing debt. However, you can’t use these loans for personal expenses.

Are there any small business grants available in Kansas?

Yes, grants are available from a variety of sources. The Kansas Department of Commerce is a useful resource for finding state-level opportunities like the Job Creation Fund. You can also search national databases like Grants.gov for federal programs relevant to your industry.



SoFi's marketplace is owned and operated by SoFi Lending Corp.


Advertising Disclosures: The preliminary options presented on this site are from lenders and providers that pay SoFi compensation for marketing their products and services. This affects whether a product or service is presented on this site. SoFi does not include all products and services in the market. All rates, terms, and conditions vary by provider. See SoFi Lending Corp. licensing information below.



Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.


Disclaimer: Many factors affect your credit scores and the interest rates you may receive. SoFi is not a Credit Repair Organization as defined under federal or state law, including the Credit Repair Organizations Act. SoFi does not provide “credit repair” services or advice or assistance regarding “rebuilding” or “improving” your credit record, credit history, or credit rating. For details, see the FTC’s website .



External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.



SoFi receives compensation in the event you obtain a loan, financial product, or service through SoFi’s marketplace. This webpage is owned and operated by SoFi Lending Corp., licensed by the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation under the California Financing Law, license number 6054612; NMLS number 1121636. ((www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org)). This page is NOT operated by SoFi Bank. Loans, financial products, and services may not be available in all states. All loan terms, including interest rate, and Annual Percentage Rate (APR), and monthly payments shown through SoFi’s marketplace are from providers and are estimates based upon the limited information you provided and are for informational purposes only. All rates, fees, and terms are presented without guarantee and are subject to change pursuant to each provider’s discretion. The actual loan terms you receive, including APR, will depend on the provider you select, their underwriting criteria, and your personal financial factors. The loan terms and rates presented are provided by the providers and not by SoFi Lending Corp. Please review each provider’s Terms and Conditions for additional details.

*Small Business Loans: Reference to “same day funding” or “funding within 24 hours” describes a general capability of many lenders you can reach through SoFi’s marketplace. Funding or funding timing is not guaranteed. Your experience with any lender will vary based on requirements of the lender and the loan you apply for. To determine the timing of funds availability, you must inquire directly with any lender. In addition, your access to any funds from a loan may be dependent on your bank’s ability to clear a transfer and make funds available.

†Credit score impact: To check the options, terms, and/or rates you may qualify for, SoFi and/or its network providers will conduct a soft credit pull that will not affect your credit score. However, if you choose a product and continue your application, the provider(s) you choose will request your full credit report from one or more consumer reporting agencies, which is considered a hard credit pull and may affect your credit. Rates may not be available from all providers.

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