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📊 Business Model Risk Matrix

Evaluate Industry Risk Like a Pro: What Lenders Love vs What Makes Them Nervous


🎯 Why This Matters

Not all businesses are funded equally. Lenders assess industry risk just as much as credit and revenue. This training helps your team quickly identify high-risk business models, set realistic expectations, and package files accordingly.


🔍 Industry Risk Tiers (Generalized Matrix)

IndustryTierRisk LevelLender Sentiment
📦 E-commerce (Amazon, Shopify)Tier 1Low–Moderate💚 Tech-friendly, scalable
🚛 Trucking & LogisticsTier 1Low–Moderate💚 Hard assets, known risk
🧼 Cleaning & JanitorialTier 1Low💚 Stable recurring revenue
🛠 Contractors & ConstructionTier 2Moderate🟡 Seasonal, inconsistent books
🍔 Restaurants & Food TrucksTier 2Moderate–High🟡 High closure rate
🧘 Coaches / ConsultantsTier 3High🔴 No hard assets, vague revenue
🧙 Spiritual / Tarot / Energy HealingTier 3High🔴 Unverifiable business model
🏦 Financial Services / Credit RepairTier 3Very High🔴 Often blocked or restricted
🎭 Entertainment / EventsTier 2Moderate🟡 Cyclical, COVID impact still lingers
💸 MLM / Network MarketingTier 4Extreme🚫 Often denied outright
🧴 Health & SupplementsTier 2–3Moderate–High🟡 Risk of FDA/regulatory interference
🌿 Cannabis-AdjacentTier 4High🚫 Federal restrictions, banking blocks


🧠 What to Look for During Intake

SignalWhat to Ask
No physical address or office“Where do you typically operate from?”
No invoices, contracts, or POS history“How do you track or receive client payments?”
Vague service descriptions“Can you walk me through your average monthly client flow?”
Income from personal coaching or mentorship“Do you offer a tangible product or structured package?”


✅ How to Package High-Risk Industries

TacticWhy It Works
Add testimonials, screenshots, or sales reportsAdds credibility
Submit full P&L or accounting docsShows operational maturity
Use secured funding if availableLowers lender risk
Recommend PG-based or revenue-based product firstNo-PG unlikely to fly
Start with small limit LOC or MCAShow repayment behavior before requalifying


🧠 Advisor Framing Tips

“Some lenders are more cautious in your industry — I’ll make sure we package the strongest file possible so you don’t waste time applying where it won’t work.”

“We’ve funded several clients in this space — the key is clean documentation and consistent revenue

📊 Business Model Risk Matrix
Craig Rice July 25, 2025
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📘 What to Expect During the Funding Process
A Step-by-Step Guide to How We Help You Get Funded