Are we a good fit?
Check out some of the general requirements to get a small business loan with BDC.
| Location | Based in Canada |
|---|---|
| Time generating revenue | 24 months + |
| Profitability | Generating revenue |
| Credit history | Good track record |
Apply online, hassle-free
Reach your next milestone
Perfect for projects both big and small
- Cover expenses
- Pay suppliers, landlords, employees
- Upgrade your website
- Buy inventory
- Hire staff
- Purchase equipment, software or hardware
- Launch energy efficiency or sustainability projects
- And more
You’re in good hands
Choosing a loan is about more than just interest rates. The fine print is just as important—and our terms and conditions are designed to give you more flexibility and financial control over your business.
We’re there in good times and in bad
We’ve supported our clients through market downturns and other events beyond their control.
We’re budget-friendly
Benefit from an affordable rate, no application fees and no penalties for early or lump-sum payments.
We’re committed to you long-term
We won't change our terms and conditions or demand early repayment without a valid reason.
An online loan with a human touch
Breathe easy with
interest-only payments
Take a break on us and pay only interest for the first 6 months of your loan.
Repay, your way
Repay at any time over the 5-year term of the loan. We never charge a penalty for early or lump-sum payments.
An online loan with a human touch
While our loan is 100% online, you'll always have access to a trusted advisor to help with any questions.
Let’s build your success together
As Canada’s bank for entrepreneurs, we complement the role of other banks. We take on more risk, offer flexible financing and provide sound advice to help you build a strong, successful and resilient business.
Still have questions?
How long does it take to get a loan?
How is the interest rate calculated?
We calculate the interest rate on our small business loan as follows:
Current floating base rate + variance based on your personal and business information = interest rate
As a result, the interest rate varies by client.
What type of information will I need to complete the online loan application form?
You will need to have the following information on hand:
Business information:
- Complete and up-to-date business information as listed in your business registry (having a copy of your up-to-date business registry may be helpful).
- Names, email addresses, home address and mobile phone numbers for the company’s president, members of the board of directors, and shareholders.
- Business void cheque.
Personal information:
- 1 piece of government-issued photo ID
The online application form specifies the type of information that will be requested in each section. It also lets you save your work at various points in case you need to obtain certain details and return later to complete the form.
Who gets a credit check when I apply for a loan?
- All owners of 25% or more of the business
- Members of the board of directors
I already have a line of credit. Why should I get a loan?
BDC's small business loan includes features similar to a line of credit, such as interest-only payments* and the option to prepay at any time without penalty, along with the stability of a term loan.
| BDC small business loan | Line of credit |
|---|---|
|
5-year term
|
30-to-90-day term
|
|
Budget more effectively with predictable monthly payments
|
Have cash on hand to handle unpredictable events
|
|
Borrowing limit based on the company's ability to repay the loan
|
Borrowing limit based on a % of the value of accounts receivable and inventory
|
|
Terms and conditions that don’t change without due cause
|
Bank can ask to be repaid at any time
|
|
Used for a specific financing need (ex: working capital, equipment)
|
Used for short-term cash flow gaps (ex: payroll, inventory purchase, unexpected costs)
|
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Loan secured by a personal guarantee. No additional fees
|
Usually secured by inventory and accounts receivable. May incur extra legal fees
|
*Conditions apply
I don’t see my question here. What do I do?
Check out the list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the small business loan conditions, the loan process and an ongoing financing request.
The BDC difference
“ With BDC financing, we successfully launched and promoted two new rapid tests, along with a new AI-driven patient portal that will reach 6,000 pharmacies across Canada! ”