Banks won't lend? Use these guys instead

Banks often have exhaustive approval processes, high minimums, and flawless credit requirements. But there's a wealth of non-bank alternatives for those who need capital fast. Here are some of the leaders.

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Financing type: Varies

What it is: A mediator between business owners and lenders, Lendio features a variety of different options, varying from peer-to-peer loans, SBA loans, cash advances and more.

Since launching in 2006, they've worked with "hundreds of thousands" of businesses who use the platform for free. Lendio gets paid by the lender for referring customers (the amount varies depending on the company).

Lendio works with hundreds of different lenders which it vets before adding to its platform. They use an automated process to suggest about four different options that suit the needs of a borrower and then connects borrowers with providers.

Who it's best for: "Restaurant owners, gas station [operators], dry cleaners -- they are very busy juggling payroll, employees and hiring, inventory," said Lendio founder Brock Blake. "They don't have time to go out and be an expert at all the different loan options that are out there."

Potential pitfalls: As with any real estate broker, it's an intermediary business. Though the service is 100% free for business owners, not every option out there is available on Lendio's platform. Lendio says they don't give preferential treatment to any one provider on their platform (which compensate Lendio in different ways, from lead generation to percentage fees of loans).

Financing amounts and interest: Varies