The OECD's 2026 SME financing scoreboard finds that borrowing costs in many countries remain high relative to the period before the pandemic, and lending terms are still demanding. Small firms often cannot issue bonds or shares as easily as large companies. For them, the difference between a manageable credit line and an unaffordable one can shape the entire business plan.
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A lender may see uncertain cash flow and limited collateral where an entrepreneur sees an excellent idea. Both perspectives are understandable, but they do not close the financing gap. Leasing, factoring, equity and community lending can sometimes address different needs; none is automatically a cheap substitute for bank credit.
Which obstacle deserves the most attention: the cost of borrowing, collateral requirements, irregular revenue or access to financial information? Compare business models and evidence, not referral offers or requests for investors.