Financing For Business Growth with Katherine Looke

Funding Business Growth the Smart Way

As your business grows, you may reach a point where extra funding is needed, whether it’s for inventory, tech upgrades, or hiring. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? In this episode of Olive Insights, Sarah Petty speaks with finance broker Katherine Looke from Finweb to answer a listener question from Silvia, an e-commerce business owner: “What are the best options available to fund this kind of growth?”

Katherine and Sarah unpack how to approach business finance strategically, so funding fuels growth rather than creating unnecessary risk. They explore the full spectrum of financing options and what lenders really look for, as well as the biggest pitfalls to avoid.

In this episode, Katherine shares:

• Financing options beyond the traditional bank loan
• The difference between overdrafts, lines of credit, loans, and invoice financing
• How to prepare your business so lenders say yes (and offer better rates)
• The biggest mistakes founders make when seeking finance
• When it might actually be better not to take on debt
• Practical examples of how small businesses can secure finance that supports growth

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re finance-ready or how to fund your next stage of growth, this episode will give you clarity and confidence.

Guest bio:
With over 10 years of experience in real estate and banking, Katherine Looke has built her career across property management, accounts, and both unsecured and secured lending. Her journey with property began early; she purchased her first investment at 21 and discovered her passion for helping others achieve their property goals. Today, Katherine combines her industry knowledge and personal experience to provide tailored finance, supporting clients from first-time home buyers to business owners looking to expand through cash flow lending and SMSFs, to business loans and honest advice.

Where to find Katherine:
YouTube: Katherine Looke - Broker
LinkedIn: Katherine Looke

About Olive Business Partners
Olive Business Partners is a Virtual CFO firm founded and led by Sarah Petty, a seasoned CFO passionate about helping business owners take control of their finances and scale with confidence. Whether you're planning to hire a team, invest in technology, expand into new markets, launch new products, take on larger clients, raise capital, or prepare for acquisition, we’ll help you make informed financial decisions that support your long-term success.

Like the olive tree, we believe in steady, resilient growth. We connect ambitious business owners with experienced CFOs, providing tailored support for the stage you're at and the challenges you're facing. Our flexible model gives you access to expert financial guidance when and where you need it without the cost of a full-time CFO.

Find out more about Olive Business Partners:
Website: Olive Business Partners
Instagram: @olivebusinesspartners
LinkedIn: Olive Business Partners

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