Small business owners, who are having trouble getting loans amid tightening credit markets, are turning to private local lenders, who may be more familiar with a region's business climate.
![[Restaurant Chains Look for Creative Ways to Cut Costs]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/MK-AS995_B1SKY2_A_20081117184701.jpg)
Franchise restaurants are aggressively searching for alternative ways to slash costs, unable to pass on the higher costs to customers without losing business.
Kelly Spors answers a reader question about the advantages of leasing equipment for a company, instead of buying or financing.
![[Small business loans]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-CP629_sbizlo_A_20081104100924.jpg)
A substantial decline in SBA lending is fueling criticism that the government isn't doing enough to help small businesses in dire need of cash.
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![[piggy bank]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-CJ288_SBBANK_C_20080918182051.jpg)
As many big banks pull back on commercial lending, small companies are turning to a new, and often pricier, set of alternatives.
![[Funding-alternatives]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-CI057_Fundin_C_20080912163427.jpg)
Can't get a bank loan? Cash-strapped entrepreneurs can explore these sources instead.
![[504-SBA-loans]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-CH910_504SBA_C_20080912110752.jpg)
A little-known Small Business Administration loan called the 504 can help you buy commercial space.
![[Social-venture-funding]](http://s.wsj.net/public/resources/images/OB-CI036_Social_C_20080912155427.jpg)
It's tough for any business to find funding. But social ventures can tap unique sources.
Credit-card offers are proliferating. A financial planner offers guidance on how to choose the best one for your business.
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