Kiva Business Loans: 2024 Review

Who Kiva is best for

Kiva is an alternative lender that specializes in micro-funding for startups and small businesses. It’s a nonprofit crowdfunding platform dedicated to increasing access to business funding for underserved communities. The company does not require a minimum annual revenue, time in business or credit score.

Kiva loans go up to $15,000, so this is an option for smaller enterprises looking to expand or start up. The website showcases people who have used the funding to open or run shoe businesses, small restaurants, rooftop farms and coffee shops. 

Who Kiva may not be best for

Any business that needs access to more funding than $15,000 may want to look elsewhere. Even by microloan standards, it’s a bit low since SBA microloans can go up to $50,000. This platform may not be the best for larger manufacturers, multi-location enterprises or high-cost businesses like transportation.  

Kiva also uses a peer-to-peer lending model. Borrowers must invite between five and 35 lenders from their own network during the private funding period. If someone does not have personal contacts that are able or willing to lend, then this might not be the best option.

Kiva: in the details

Kiva pros and cons

Below are some pros and cons to Kiva. You can also check out these pros and cons to crowdfunding in general. 

Business loan types offered

What we like and what we don’t like

Like any lending option, there are some good points and some drawbacks that might not make it ideal for all situations. 

What we like   

• A way to generate buzz for your business: You have to work to get funding from individuals, including friends and family. It can be a good way to get the word out about your new business venture.
• 0 percent APR and no fees: The 0 percent APR is a massive perk, as even the best startup business loans typically have at least 5 percent interest — or often much higher. No fees are also a perk since origination fees alone can run from 1 to 5 percent for other business loans.  
• Can build business credit. You can choose to have your loan activity reported to Experian and Dun & Bradstreet. You can even opt out of having your activity reported.

What we don’t like 

• Need to crowdsource your own funding: If you’re not in a position where friends or family can or will lend to you, this isn’t the option for you. Some people might also just not like the stress of asking people in their network to lend to them. 
• Microloans may not be enough funding: These microloans go up to $15,000, which is perfect for smaller ventures trying to get off the ground or expand a bit. But larger enterprises may need to look elsewhere. 

How Kiva compares to other lenders

Unlike traditional lenders, Kiva operates as a crowdfunding platform, connecting individuals to entrepreneurs in need of loans for various business purposes. It offers interest-free loans ranging from $1,000 to $15,000 with a term of up to 36 months. Kiva's approach relies on support from contributors who want to support entrepreneurs by donating funds to their projects or businesses.   

While this provides a more personalized and community-driven experience, some entrepreneurs may prefer more traditional small business lending. 

How Bankrate rates Kiva