Business financing in Des Moines County.

Small business financing is money you borrow — or access through grants or programs — to start, run, or grow a business. It can take many forms: a term loan with fixed monthly payments, a line of credit you draw on as needed, a microloan for smaller amounts, equipment financing tied to a specific purchase, or a real estate loan if you're buying commercial or investment property.

Not all financing is the same.

Some products are designed for businesses with at least two years of operating history.

Others, like microloans and CDFI loans, are specifically built for newer or smaller businesses that haven't yet built a strong credit file. Understanding which type fits your situation is the first step — and local organizations in Des Moines County can help you figure that out at no cost.

Des Moines County is anchored by the city of Burlington and has a working economy built around manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, retail, and small service businesses. Many residents work in trades, own small shops, or operate side businesses alongside full-time employment.

Most local lenders and CDFIs look at a few core factors:

- **Time in business:** Even 6–12 months of documented activity can open doors with the right lender.

- **Revenue and cash flow:** Lenders want to see that money is coming in, even if it's modest. Bank statements — personal or business — tell this story.

- **Credit history:** A score of 600+ helps with conventional lenders, but CDFIs and ITIN-friendly lenders often use alternative underwriting that weighs your character, community ties, and cash flow more heavily.

- **ITIN filers:** If you file taxes using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security Number, you are not excluded. Several lenders in and near Des Moines County work specifically with ITIN borrowers.

- **Sole proprietors and contractors:** You do not need to be incorporated to apply for most small business loans. A Schedule C filed with your taxes is often sufficient proof of business activity.

If you're in agriculture-adjacent services, manufacturing supply, or building trades — sectors active in Burlington and the surrounding county — local lenders are familiar with your business model and more likely to understand your cash flow patterns.

Gathering your documents before you meet with a lender saves time and shows you're prepared. Requirements vary by lender, but most will ask for some combination of the following:

**Personal & Identity Documents**

- Government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license, or consular ID)

- ITIN or Social Security Number

- Proof of address (utility bill, lease agreement)

**Tax & Financial Records**

- Last 2 years of personal tax returns (federal)

- Last 2 years of business tax returns, if filed separately

- Schedule C if you're a sole proprietor

- 3–6 months of personal and/or business bank statements

**Business Documents**

- Business license or DBA registration (if applicable)

- Articles of Incorporation or LLC Operating Agreement (if incorporated)

- A simple business plan or written description of what you do and how you earn money

- Any existing contracts, leases, or purchase agreements relevant to the loan purpose

**For Real Estate Loans**

- Property address and purchase agreement or appraisal

- Rent rolls if the property is already generating income

Don't let missing documents stop you from making a first call. Many local organizations will help you identify exactly what you need before a formal application.