💡 How to get funding as a sole proprietor? (Complete Guide)

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Discover all the solutions to finance your activity as a sole proprietor: loans, grants, subsidies, micro-credits, crowdfunding and tips for getting your application approved.

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1. Why is it difficult to get funding as a sole proprietor?

Many sole proprietors think it's "impossible" to get a loan... but that's not true.
The real problem: your business doesn't have a track record yet, so banks are more cautious.

👉 The good news: there are specialized organizations AND strategies to get your application approved.

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2. The best funding solutions for sole proprietors

🟣 1. Professional micro-credit (ADIE, France Active...)

This is the most accessible solution for sole proprietors, even with low income.

• Up to €12,000

• Accessible even without collateral

• Reasonable rates

• Free support

👉 Ideal for financing premises, stock, equipment or a launch.

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🟣 2. Public grants and subsidies

Several types of assistance exist depending on the situation:

✔ ARCE + ARE (Pôle Emploi)

Allows you to receive a portion of your unemployment benefits to start your business.

✔ France Travail assistance for creation/takeover

Support and potential funding.

✔ Regional / departmental subsidies

Some regions fund entrepreneurs (IDF, Rhône-Alpes, PACA, DOM-TOM…).

✔ Aid for women entrepreneurs

Some associations and local authorities fund female creators.

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🟣 3. Traditional bank loan

More difficult but not impossible.

To increase your chances:

• Have a clear financial plan

• Show already interested customers

• Have a few months of history

• Provide a personal guarantee

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🟣 4. Crowdfunding

Very effective if you sell products (wigs, services, training):

• Ulule

• KissKissBankBank

• GoFundMe

You present your project → people support it → you receive the money.

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🟣 5. Leasing or equipment rental

To avoid spending a lot at once:

• Equipment

• Gear

• Machines

• Vehicles

You pay in small monthly installments.

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3. How to prepare a solid application that will be accepted?

Here are the 4 key points that all funders look at:

1️⃣ A clear and realistic budget

Show:

• What you will buy

• How much it costs

• How it will help your business

• How you will repay

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2️⃣ A simple but structured business plan

No need for 20 pages.
But you absolutely need:

• Activity presentation

• Problem you solve

• Your offer

• Your prices

• Your market

• Your strategy for finding customers

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3️⃣ Proof of motivation and seriousness

Funders like:

• Already organized entrepreneurs

• Those who have started selling

• Those who show proof (orders, quotes, customer messages…)

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4️⃣ A stable personal situation

Even simple:

• Up-to-date bank account

• No significant debts

• Regular payments

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4. How much can a sole proprietor get?

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5. Tips for getting accepted on the first try

✔ Prepare a neat and professional application

No messy text.
Well-structured.
Clear PDF.

✔ Show that you already have results

Even 3–5 clients → huge difference.

✔ Show a real development strategy

How will you evolve in the next 6 months?

✔ Be confident and precise during the interview

Funders fund the person before the project.

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6. Conclusion: Yes, a sole proprietor can get funding!

With a good application and the right strategies, it is entirely possible to finance your equipment, stock, premises, or even a new activity.

👉 Whether you are in beauty, hairdressing, wigs or another sector, the important thing is to present a clear, structured and credible project.