A quick business funding process that offers same day business loans for business owners.
Owning any type of a bar or club can be a financial challenge. Business can be seasonal or inconsistent, putting a strain on operational budgets. Or, if you’re very successful, you might think about expanding your venture. Maybe you’ll add an addition to your current establishment. Or bring in something new, like food or craft brews. You might even be considering opening another location. Or you could just be behind on the bills. In any case, you’re going to need money. Depending on your situation, you could need a big injection of cash—opening a new location might come with a price tag of up to $425,000.
Unless you have a huge amount of cash on hand, you’re going to need a business loan. Shield Funding has been securing small business loans for bars for more than a decade and we offer a variety of financing options that can be tailored to fit your needs. Few bar owners will be able to expand their business without taking a loan, but there are several types of business loans that may fit your situation.
What Do I Need to Qualify?
Below is a list of the general requirements to get approved for business funding with our basic program.
How Do I Apply?
Applying has never been easier. You can either call our toll free number 24 hours 7 days a week at:
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This is a standard term business loan. You can often get large amounts of money—sometimes up to $1,000,000. Which you might need if you’re opening a new location. Smaller amounts are also available for bar owners looking to expand their current establishment. You need a minimum credit score of 500 to qualify for this type of loan. You also need to have been in business for at least two months and have monthly revenue of $8,000 or more. Finally, we require two monthly deposits at a minimum in your business bank account. The advantage of a small business loan is that you can use the funds for anything you want. You can buy a location, pay rent, buy or upgrade your equipment, pay your employees, pay other operational costs, or make any other investment required for your business.
This type of loan is great for covering the costs associated with expansion. You’ll need to pay rent on the first few months of a new space. Buy new taps to fill out the bar, as well as stools, tables, and chairs for your new customers. Launch a marketing campaign. There are all sorts of costs associated with opening a new location. And a small business loan can help you with all of them. The rates you get depend on your credit and business financials, but you can expect somewhere between 5 and 45%. And terms range anywhere from 3 to 36 months. It’s important to understand that it may be hard to qualify for a traditional term loan from a bank, especially if you’re relatively new in the business. Shield Funding is more flexible, and we have the ability to offer bar owners no-collateral business loans. You’ll just have to prove that you have enough revenue to qualify.
These business loans are specifically for buying, leasing, or upgrading equipment. If you expand your bar, you’ll probably need more taps and you might need another POS station. Adding brewing equipment or a kitchen could cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Why go through all the work and risk to purchase expensive equipment when just taking a small business loan is the solution? Earmark your small business loan for a specific purpose, and stick to it. Only purchase equipment and all the related costs to upgrading or purchasing new equipment.
Another important reason to utilize a business loan for equipment is that you can avoid as much as 20% or more that can be required as a down payment on a straight equipment loan. So if you’re investing $100,000 in a new brewing system, you’ll need to put up $20,000 or more. That’s a lot of money. It’s also important to note that you don’t actually own the equipment until the end of the loan, which some business owners don’t like. And it depreciates during this time, which could have tax implications. All that being said, a small business loan for equipment financing is a great way to expand your business if you can’t afford to buy the equipment outright. And because you may be able to avoid any down payment costs, you might be able to save a lot of time and money.
If you have bad credit, it will be even harder to get a traditional loan. But we work with bar owners of all types. As long as your credit score is at 500 or above, we can work with you to find the best loan for your situation.
You’ll still need two months in business and $8,000 in monthly revenue. And you’ll need five monthly deposits, instead of two. Bad credit business loans also have a slightly higher range of interest rates, at 12–45%. When traditional banks won’t even consider you because of your credit, give us a shout.
A business line of credit is a lot like a credit card—you get a maximum amount of credit and can spend any amount below that repeatedly (as long as you pay it back in between withdrawals). That makes lines of credit great for day-to-day purchases like inventory, decor, or marketing. Because bar inventory usually has high turnover, you’ll be making a lot of inventory purchases. So a financing option like this can be a big help. Because it’s always available once you’ve been approved, it’s also a big help for weathering unexpected costs. Your keg cooling system might break, for example—and you need to get it fixed as fast as possible.
Or you could come across an opportunity to take part in a local event that requires some upfront cash. Because you’ve already been approved, you’ll have the funds on hand to take advantage. Interest rates are relatively low—usually in the 5–10% range. And because you can get up to $250,000 of revolving credit, you can use it to build up some momentum when you grow your business. We work with borrowers who have a credit score of 650 or higher, have been in business for six months or more, and have monthly revenue of at least $10,000 for business lines of credit. We also require at least five monthly deposits.
We know that restaurants have a tough time receiving working capital because of the volatility of the industry. If you try to get a loan from a traditional lender, you’ll get denied fast. But we don’t think your industry should disqualify you from getting funding for your restaurant business.
So we offer short term merchant cash advances of up to $1,000,000 to restaurant owners with credit scores above 500. You’ll pay 12–45% interest on terms up to 36 months. As long as your restaurant has been open for a few months and you have $8,000 in monthly revenue, you can qualify.
Apply Directly to One Source!
Work with a direct lender and get a business loan as fast as the same day. Shield Funding offers competitive rates and terms on all it’s funding programs. Apply now with a trusted lender that has been helping business owners secure working capital for almost two decades.
The SBA 7(a) loan is the most widely used and flexible government-backed loan program available to small business owners, including those operating bars. With loan amounts of up to $5 million, the funds can be used for a wide range of purposes such as purchasing or renovating a bar property, buying equipment like coolers and commercial kitchen appliances, covering working capital needs, refinancing existing business debt, or acquiring an existing bar. While lenders do review your credit and financial documentation, SBA guarantees make them more open to lending to borrowers who may not meet conventional bank standards. Loan terms are favorable—often up to 10 years for working capital and 25 years for real estate—with competitive interest rates and manageable monthly payments. This makes the SBA 7(a) a go-to option for both new and established bar owners seeking to invest in long-term growth.
The SBA Microloan Program is an excellent option for new bar owners, entrepreneurs with limited credit, or those seeking smaller amounts of capital to launch or stabilize their business. Microloans are issued through SBA-approved nonprofit intermediary lenders and can provide up to $50,000 in funding. These funds can be used for common startup expenses such as purchasing bar furniture, installing fixtures, stocking initial inventory, or covering licensing fees and early payroll. Microloans generally come with lower interest rates than other small business financing options and offer terms up to six years. In addition to funding, many intermediaries also provide business development support and technical assistance, helping borrowers strengthen their financial operations and improve the chances of long-term success. This program is especially helpful for bars just getting started or those looking to make small but impactful upgrades.
The SBA 504 Loan Program is designed to help small businesses—like bars that own or plan to purchase physical locations—finance major fixed assets. This program offers long-term, fixed-rate loans that can be used to buy commercial real estate, renovate buildings, or purchase high-value equipment such as refrigeration units, kitchen appliances, or bar infrastructure. SBA 504 loans are structured through a partnership: a traditional lender covers 50% of the project cost, a Certified Development Company (CDC) covers 40%, and the borrower contributes 10%. This reduces the bank’s risk and allows borrowers to access larger amounts of capital with relatively low down payments and favorable rates. With repayment terms of 10, 20, or 25 years, the SBA 504 program is best suited for well-established bar businesses that are looking to make significant investments in their physical space or infrastructure.
Wells Fargo is recognized for its business lines of credit, which are a good fit for bars needing flexible access to working capital. They also provide term loans and SBA loans, with competitive rates and a strong reputation for supporting small businesses. Wells Fargo typically requires at least two years in business and good credit for approval.
NYC’s Future Fund offers flexible, revenue-based loans ranging from $100,500 to $500,000 to support small businesses—including bars—throughout the city. Payments are calibrated to your business’s actual revenue, helping to manage cash flow more effectively during slower periods. This program can be used for working capital, hiring staff, marketing efforts, equipment purchases, and more. Loan terms and eligibility criteria evolve based on ongoing feedback from borrowers, ensuring the program remains responsive to small business needs.
Chicago’s SBIF is a grant program offering up to $150,000 for commercial property improvements (or up to $250,000 for industrial properties) in designated Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts. These no-repay grants can cover 30%–90% of eligible remodeling costs for bar interiors, ADA upgrades, kitchen or bar-area renovations, and energy-efficient enhancements. Both tenants and property owners can apply—commercial businesses with annual gross sales under $9 million are eligible.
Business loans for bar owners are designed to provide fast, flexible funding to support daily operations, cover unexpected expenses, or fuel growth—whether you’re just getting started or expanding an established location. These loans can be used for a variety of needs, including purchasing inventory, paying staff, upgrading kitchen or bar equipment, renovating your space, or launching a local marketing campaign. Loan amounts typically range from $5,000 to $500,000, and depending on the lender, funds can often be approved and deposited in as little as 24 to 48 hours.
Many of these financing options are unsecured, meaning you won’t need to put up collateral like real estate or equipment to qualify. Instead, approval is usually based on your bar’s revenue, cash flow, and overall business performance. If you’ve been turned down by a traditional bank, alternative solutions such as merchant cash advances or revenue-based loans can offer accessible alternatives—especially if your bar has consistent daily or weekly sales. Whether you’re recovering from a slow season, preparing for a busy one, or simply looking for extra working capital, our goal is to connect bar owners with fast, reliable funding that fits their unique business needs and supports long-term success.
Business loans for bar owners offer fast and flexible funding options tailored to the unique challenges of running a bar, especially when traditional financing isn’t accessible. These loans are ideal for purchasing inventory ahead of high-traffic events or seasonal rushes, allowing you to take advantage of bulk pricing and keep your shelves fully stocked. They can also be used to hire or retain key staff during busy periods, upgrade outdated bar equipment, or refresh your space to attract more customers—even if your credit isn’t perfect.
In addition to daily needs, these loans are a valuable resource for launching promotions, expanding into new markets, or handling unexpected expenses like emergency repairs. Approval is often based more on your bar’s cash flow and revenue history than your credit score, and funding can be available in as little as 24 to 48 hours. Many bar business loans are unsecured, meaning no collateral is required, and the repayment terms are designed to align with your income cycle. Whether you’re stabilizing cash flow or seizing a new opportunity, bar business loans give you the capital you need to keep operations strong and growth on track.
Before taking out a business loan for your bar, it’s essential to evaluate your financial position and ensure the repayment terms align with your cash flow. Start by reviewing your average monthly revenue, fixed expenses like rent and payroll, and your profit margins to determine how much you can reasonably afford to repay without disrupting operations. Business loans—especially those offering fast funding—may come with higher interest rates or shorter terms, so it’s crucial to understand the full cost, including fees, before committing.
While these loans can be incredibly helpful for addressing immediate needs or seizing timely opportunities, borrowing more than your bar can handle could lead to financial strain. A well-calculated loan, on the other hand, can support sustainable growth and help keep your bar operating smoothly. Always make sure the repayment schedule fits within your budget and allows for financial flexibility.
Before applying for a business loan for your bar, it’s essential to have a clear, strategic plan for how you’ll use the funds. These loans offer fast access to capital, making them ideal for urgent needs such as restocking liquor or food inventory, covering payroll during slower weeks, hiring extra staff ahead of peak seasons, or investing in a time-sensitive marketing push. You can also use the funds to take advantage of last-minute opportunities—like securing a discounted equipment deal or upgrading your outdoor space to attract more foot traffic.
Having a specific purpose not only helps you determine how much to borrow but also ensures the loan delivers a return on investment. Knowing your funding needs in advance allows you to choose a repayment plan that fits your cash flow and prevents unnecessary financial strain. A well-defined plan keeps the loan aligned with your business goals and helps your bar stay profitable and prepared for growth.
Bad credit business loans can be a lifeline for bar owners who need quick access to capital but have less-than-perfect credit. Whether you’re restocking liquor before a busy weekend, covering payroll during a slow month, or repairing a crucial piece of equipment, these loans offer fast and flexible funding when traditional lenders say no. You can also use the capital to hire new staff, launch happy hour promotions, or invest in a seasonal event that drives foot traffic.
These loans are typically unsecured, so you won’t need to put your bar or equipment at risk. Approval often hinges on your bar’s revenue rather than your personal credit score, and funds can be deposited in as little as 24 hours. For bar owners navigating cash flow gaps, slow seasons, or growth opportunities, bad credit business loans provide the speed and agility to stay competitive and profitable—regardless of your credit history.
Qualifying for a day business loan as a bar owner depends on several key business metrics rather than just your credit score. While lenders may review your credit, they place greater emphasis on your bar’s financial performance—such as how long you’ve been operating, your average monthly revenue, and the consistency of your bank deposits. They’ll also look at your ability to meet regular expenses, the stability of your cash flow, and any patterns in seasonal earnings. Lenders assess your current financial picture to make their decision. Factors like your industry type and how reliably you manage daily finances often weigh more heavily than your credit history. With the right documentation and steady income, you can often qualify for funding—even if your credit isn’t perfect.
The amount you can qualify for with a business loan as a bar owner is largely determined by your business’s monthly revenue, cash flow, and deposit history. Lenders typically review your average monthly deposits and may approve a loan amount up to 70% or more of that figure. For example, if your bar deposits $50,000 per month, you might be eligible for a loan of around $35,000 or higher. Lenders also consider your business’s stability, overall financial health, and credit history to decide how much funding you can receive. Having consistent revenue, well-kept financial records, and a solid business plan can improve your chances of qualifying for a larger loan and better terms.
With most business loans for bar owners, repayment typically starts soon after you receive your funds and is handled through automatic withdrawals from your business bank account1. Payments are often set up on a daily or weekly schedule—if you’re on a daily plan, the lender will usually debit your account every business day, skipping weekends and holidays. For weekly repayment, one fixed payment is withdrawn each week. This setup lets you pay back your loan in smaller, more manageable amounts, helping you maintain steady cash flow while meeting your loan obligations. The goal is to make the repayment process straightforward and predictable, so you can focus on running your bar without worrying about large, unexpected payments.
The cost of a business loan for bar owners is usually based on the loan’s factor rate and the length of the repayment term. To figure out your total repayment, you multiply the amount you borrow by the factor rate. For example, if you get a $20,000 loan with a 12-month term at a factor rate of 1.15, you’ll repay $23,000 in total—this includes $3,000 in financing costs. Unlike traditional interest rates, a factor rate is fixed and applied upfront, so you know exactly how much you’ll pay back from the start. Your payment plan, whether daily or weekly, will determine how the total amount is spread out over time. This setup gives you quick access to funds and clear, predictable repayment terms, making it easier to manage your business finances.
This is likely one of the most important benchmarks you will use to compare lending options. If one lender offers a better interest rate than the other and all other things remain the same you can have a good idea of the rate comparison. You must keep in mind that different products such as credit cards or car loans work using traditional financing interest rates and APR, but many alternative funding programs quote in a factor rate or annualized interest rates so try to compare options based on the types of loans they are most similar to. And ultimately it will come down to what you have to pay back when all is said and done.
When comparing lending options, whether quoted in factor rates, interest rates, or any other framework, what is most important is what you will pay back when all is said and done. For this reason you should always try to look at what you will pay over the entire life of the loan.
Lenders increasingly review POS data to assess sales trends, average transaction size, and customer volume. Strong, consistent POS reports can help you qualify for better loan terms.
Yes, bars in rural or underserved areas may qualify for special loan programs or grants, such as those offered by the USDA or local economic development agencies, which aim to boost small businesses in these regions.
Bars that primarily accept card payments may find it easier to document revenue for lenders, while cash-heavy businesses should keep thorough records and deposit receipts to strengthen their application.
Yes, lenders often allow funds to be used for staff development, which can improve service quality and compliance—both important for long-term business success.Are there loans specifically for bars planning to add a kitchen or expand their food service?
Yes, mobile bars and pop-up establishments can qualify for business loans, though lenders may require a strong business plan and proof of event bookings or partnerships to demonstrate potential revenue.
If you anticipate a temporary closure, communicate with your lender in advance. Some lenders may allow for deferred payments, interest-only periods, or temporary adjustments to your repayment schedule, especially if you have a strong payment history.
