Small Business Finance

Definition ∞ Small business finance refers to the provision of financial resources and services specifically tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises. This domain includes various funding mechanisms such as loans, lines of credit, venture capital, and crowdfunding, along with financial management tools. It addresses the capital requirements for starting, operating, and expanding smaller commercial operations. Access to appropriate financing is crucial for the growth and sustainability of these businesses.
Context ∞ News in the digital asset space sometimes discusses how blockchain and decentralized finance (DeFi) might disrupt or supplement traditional small business finance. Debates often focus on the potential for DeFi lending protocols to offer alternative capital sources, bypassing conventional banking intermediaries. A critical future development involves the regulatory clarity and technological maturity required for widespread adoption of decentralized financial solutions by small businesses. This area represents a potential avenue for increased financial inclusion.