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How to Start a Vending Business with Little Money

Discover how to launch a vending business with minimal upfront costs. Learn about Cantaloupe Capital’s flexible line of credit and Cantaloupe One’s no upfront cost subscription plans, plus essential budgeting tips and software tools.

4 minute read

So, you want to grow your vending business. Maybe you’re looking to purchase a small route. Maybe you plan to invest in some newer machines. Maybe you’re considering a micro market or Smart Store setup. Or maybe you’re looking to switch to bulk buying for your products and move into some larger storage or warehouse space. Whatever you need the funds for, let’s be realistic: vending can require heavy capital investment upfront.

So where can you get the funding? Traditional lending options often come with lengthy application processes, high interest rates, and strict eligibility criteria. But with the right financial tools and support, you can grow your business with minimal upfront costs. Whether you need a financial boost or want to start using modern vending and micro market solutions, Cantaloupe has you covered.

Cantaloupe Capital: Fast and Flexible Financing

Fast Facts

  • Cantaloupe Capital offers a line of credit up to $150,000 for purchasing equipment and managing cash flow.
  • Cantaloupe One provides no upfront cost subscription plans with monthly fees starting on the next billing cycle.
  • Cantaloupe One plans include full hardware warranties and scalable solutions for various business sizes.
  • To be eligible for Cantaloupe Capital, your business must have an annual revenue of $30,000 or more, a business checking account, a FICO score greater than 600, and be at least 3 months old.

One of the most significant challenges for newer businesses is accessing the capital needed to start operations. Cantaloupe Capital, in collaboration with Fundbox, offers a fast and flexible line of credit up to $150,000 (conditions apply, see Cantaloupe Capital page for list). This credit can be used for a variety of purposes: including purchasing new equipment, managing cash flow, and investing in growth opportunities.

Key Features

  • Quick Credit Decision: Receive a credit decision in minutes, allowing you to act swiftly on business opportunities.
  • Fast Fund Transfer: Funds can be transferred as soon as the next business day, ensuring you have the resources you need when you need them.
  • Flexible Access: Draw funds as many times as needed, up to your credit limit, giving you the flexibility to manage your cash flow effectively.
  • No Early Payment Penalties: Pay off your credit early without  penalties,  which gives you more control over your money.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Cantaloupe Capital’s credit options, your business must meet the following criteria:

  • Annual Revenue: $30,000 or more
  • Business Checking Account: Maintain a business checking account
  • FICO Score: Greater than 600
  • Business Age: At least 3 months in operation

How to Apply for Cantaloupe Capital

Getting started with Cantaloupe Capital is straightforward:

  1. Visit our webpage.
  2. Fill out the application form with your business details.
  3. Get a credit decision in minutes.
  4. If approved, funds can be transferred as soon as the next business day.

 

Cantaloupe One: Subscription Plans and Equipment Kits

Cantaloupe One offers a range of subscription plans for equipment kits and software packages without the upfront costs. These plans provide everything you need to grow your business, from hardware and software to ongoing support and maintenance.

Key Benefits

  • No Upfront Costs: Start your business without the financial burden of purchasing hardware and software. Monthly subscription fees only begin on the next billing cycle.
  • Full Hardware Warranty: Enjoy a full hardware warranty, ensuring that any necessary replacements are covered at no additional cost. This financial predictability allows you to budget more effectively and allocate funds to other areas of your operation.
  • Scalable Solutions: Choose from various subscription plans tailored to different business sizes and needs, allowing you to scale your operations as you grow.

Subscription Plans for Different Business Needs

Cantaloupe One provides several subscription plans designed to cater to different business needs:

Amusement, Air Vac, and Coin-based Machine Operators

Kit: Easy-to-install cashless card reader with EMV, credit/debit, magstripe, and mobile wallet acceptance.

Software: Access to Seed Live for device management and sales tracking.

Price: Starts at $18.95 per month.

Growing Vending Operators

Kit: Card Reader and VMS Starter Kit.

Software: Seed Cashless+ vending management software.

Price: Starts at $19.95 per month.

Enterprise-Level Operators

Kit: Card Reader and VMS Enterprise Kit.

Software: Seed Pro, integration of micro markets and office coffee/pantry services, and a dedicated Customer Success Manager.

Price: Custom price.

Smart Store 600 Single Kit

Kit: Designed for small to medium-sized businesses.

Price: Starts at $399 per month.

Go Plus100 Kiosk Kit

Kit: Ideal for mid-sized micro markets

Price: Starts at $249 per month.

Go MiniX Kiosk Kit

Kit: Perfect for small micro markets.

Price: Starts at $225 per month.

Make the most of your options.

Both Cantaloupe Capital and Cantaloupe One are designed to help you start and grow your business with minimal upfront costs. Here are some tips to make the most of these services:

  1. Plan your budget. Before applying for credit or subscribing to a plan, create a detailed budget. Identify your immediate and long-term financial needs to ensure you use the funds effectively.
  2. Monitor your finances. Regularly review your financial statements to track your spending and ensure you stay within your budget.
  3. Leverage technology.: Use the software and tools provided by Cantaloupe to optimize your operations. For example, Seed Live and Seed Cashless+ can help you manage your devices and track sales more efficiently.

Scaling a business with little to no money down is possible! Cantaloupe Capital and Cantaloupe One offer a range of solutions that can help you launch or grow without financial strain – so you can focus on building your business and achieving your goals.