Welcome! Diogenes is designed to convince you of one overarching thing and it’s that you don’t need to hire a broker to help you secure funding for your business. In fact, if you’re trying to get the best possible (and who isn’t?) you should do the exact opposite and go to a few lenders that are a fit.
Once Diogenes learns enough about your business, it should be able to recommend a few appropriate lenders that you can apply with directly. But keep in mind that Diogenes is here to tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear including that getting into debt may not be the right move. Remember, all a broker has is a hammer and you’re always the nail.
Here are 20 types of questions you can pose your brutally honest chatbot about business funding. Whether you’re curious, confused, or just plain desperate for answers, Diogenes is here to help (and maybe roast you a little along the way).
General Questions
- What is the difference between a term loan and a line of credit?
- Can I get a business loan if I have a bankruptcy?
- Should I provide statements for all my business bank accounts?
- What are the red flags I should look out for in loan offers?
- How do I qualify for an SBA loan?
- What’s a UCC filing, and should I care if I have one?
- Can I get a loan if I have a tax lien?
- How can I improve my chances of getting approved for a loan?
- What’s the difference between an online lender and a traditional bank?
- Who are lenders similar to [Lender X]?
Specific Scenarios
- I have $X in annual revenue, a credit score of Y, and Z years in business. Who should I apply with?
- I already have a merchant cash advance and need more money. What should I do?
- I was declined for a loan even though I met the criteria. What went wrong?
- Should I use a term loan or a line of credit for hiring staff and marketing?
- Can I refinance my existing loan with another lender?
- What’s the approval process like for [Lender Y]?
Funny or Left-Field Questions
- Am I talking to a human?
- What is the meaning life?
- How do I find a romantic partner?
- Who is behind this website?
Remember, Diogenes is trained to provide guidance on one thing only: small business funding. Ask irrelevant questions, and you may get told to take a hike. There are plenty of other GPTs out there if you’re lonely–or better yet, get a dog. Otherwise, ask away but just don’t expect sugarcoating!