Bank loans

You can obtain loans from banks or Sparkassen (savings banks). The type of bank and loan you require will depend on how much money you would like to borrow and how long you will need it for.

In your financing plan you will have determined your requirements. As a rule, the longer the credit period and the higher the risk is deemed to be, the higher the interest will be. For this reason, it is important to draw up a well thought out business plan to convince the bank of your plans. It is also important that you can demonstrate that you have sufficient equity.

Please note: Make sure to prepare well for the meeting with your bank advisor. Remember to take with you any important documents, which will help you make your case. In Germany, it is common for your bank advisor to discuss not only your qualifications but also your weaknesses. Be open about your entrepreneurial weaknesses and explain how you intend to overcome them. If you are realistic in assessing your strengths and weaknesses, you will come across as more authentic and trustworthy in front of your bank advisor and others.

Before your bank meeting, you might want to contact an information centre for entrepreneurs.