There aren’t many success stories out there like LendingClub’s. What started as a small app on Facebook has since drawn the attention of venture capital investors, becoming a big name in the world of online lending.
Today, LendingClub’s business-financing offer is built around two distinct paths: SBA lending through LendingClub Bank and fast small-business loans through its partnership with Accion Opportunity Fund.
Fast online application with advisor support.
Fortunly Rating
Fortunly's Rating: Our editorial team determines the rating based on a set of evaluation criteria developed for each product and service category.
- Relaxed borrower qualifications
- Quick application process
- Multiple loans in same term
- Past bankruptcies allowed
- Competitive loan rates
- Dedicated client advisor support
- Not very strict credit requirements
- Affordable monthly payments
- No prepayment penalties
- Not a good choice for startups
- Origination fees can be high
LendingClub Overview
Established in 2006, this California-based lender has since become one of the best-known names in online lending.
LendingClub Bank focuses heavily on SBA lending, while its fast smaller-ticket business-loan option is routed through a partnership with nonprofit Accion Opportunity Fund.
The origins of this company stem from Facebook. Soon after seeing how well-received LendingClub was, investors flocked toward the up-and-coming company, providing a much-needed boost.
Over time, LendingClub evolved well beyond that original marketplace identity.
Types of Financing Available
Choosing a LendingClub business loan is no longer just a matter of picking one generic business-loan product. The current offer breaks into two main categories: fast small business loans through Accion Opportunity Fund and SBA loans through LendingClub Bank.
Small Business Loans
Getting a smaller business loan through LendingClub’s current setup means going through its partnership with Accion Opportunity Fund. Borrowers can access $5,000 to $250,000, with fixed monthly payments, 1- to 3-year terms, and no prepayment penalties.
This is the better fit for businesses that need a faster, more flexible loan than a bank-style SBA process usually allows. It also comes with a dedicated client advisor, which makes the experience feel more guided than a standard online lending form.
SBA Loans
The bank currently highlights several SBA use cases, including general SBA lending programs, business acquisition financing, franchise financing, and 504 lending.
These loans are intended for businesses looking for larger amounts, longer repayment periods, and more affordable monthly payments than short-term online lenders usually provide. The company offers terms of up to 25 years for eligible uses and loan amounts up to $5 million in areas such as franchise finance.
Application Process
Applying for business financing at LendingClub is still fairly streamlined, but the path now depends on which product you are pursuing. The fast small-business-loan path is lighter-touch, while SBA financing is more documentation-heavy and advisor-led.
For smaller business loans, the current site emphasizes a straightforward online application and personalized guidance. For SBA products, relationship managers and financing specialists are positioned more prominently.
In-Depth Presentation of Features
Ever since venture capital investors saw the potential in LendingClub, the company has been on the rise. It has become a significant business lender, with billions of dollars in funding provided to businesses across the country.
Smaller business loans now come with fixed monthly payments, 1- to 3-year terms, no prepayment penalties, and advisor guidance. SBA products, meanwhile, serve businesses that want longer repayment periods and bank-style structures.
Loan Amount and APR Details
Small business loans through Accion Opportunity Fund:
Loan amount: $5,000 to $250,000
Repayment term: 1 to 3 years
Payments: fixed monthly
Prepayment penalty: none
SBA financing through LendingClub Bank:
Loan amount: varies by SBA product and can reach into the millions
Repayment term: can extend up to 25 years depending on use
Rates: product-specific and SBA-structured, not presented as one universal public business-loan APR range
Payment Terms
LendingClub business-financing payment terms also depend on the product. Smaller business loans use fixed monthly payments. SBA products can stretch much longer and are structured more like traditional bank loans.
Customer Support & User Satisfaction
LendingClub provides customer support via phone, fax and email. As for customer sentiment, the company is highly regarded, and holds a 4.7/5 rating on Trustpilot, with the majority of people praising the easy application process, as well as quick approvals.
Some of the negative reviews have to do with unexpected denials and a more tedious application process for for specific financial products.
Final Verdict
The competition has become rather fierce in the world of online lending, but this company is still managing to stay ahead of the pack.
LendingClub is a good fit for established businesses comparing structured SBA financing and for smaller businesses that want guided access to a simpler fixed-payment loan.
FAQ
How much can you borrow from LendingClub for a business loan?
The smaller-loan option currently ranges from $5,000 to $250,000, while SBA financing can reach much higher amounts.
What can a LendingClub business loan be used for?
Depending on the product, the funds can be used for working capital, business acquisition, franchise financing, expansion, and other general business needs.
Does LendingClub offer SBA loans?
Yes. SBA financing is one of the core parts of LendingClub’s business offer through LendingClub Bank.