This business week article discusses how to build a good credit history and a credit line once you restart your small business after declaring bankruptcy. The key take aways are –

  1. Approach lenders at community banks who evaluate your application by sitting down and talking with you, looking at your specific collateral and your cash flow
  2. Ask a customer or colleague to make an introduction for you at a bank. If they are willing to co-sign a loan guarantee for you, that would definitely improve your chances
  3. Start off asking for a small amount and work your way up to a larger loan or credit line
  4. Consider leasing equipment and asking suppliers for credit terms on your inventory
  5. Attract a partner with a stellar credit history that could offset your own