Key Takeaways
- DACA entrepreneurs operate independent auto repair shops, tire shops, and detailing businesses across the US
- Bankable funds shop equipment, working capital, and second location expansion with no citizenship requirement
- Lift installation, diagnostic equipment, and alignment machines all qualify as fundable assets
- SBA auto shop loans now closed to DACA owners — Bankable's 48-hour decisions are the alternative
- Your monthly repair revenue and bay count are your bankability — no green card needed
Auto repair is one of the most entrepreneurship-friendly trades in America. The path from technician to shop owner is well-worn, and DACA mechanics and master technicians have walked it successfully across the country. From Albuquerque to Atlanta, DACA-owned shops are the go-to repair destinations in their neighborhoods — trusted, skilled, and deeply community-rooted. Bankable is built to fund their growth.
Auto Repair Business Funding Uses
- Lift installation: Two-post and four-post lifts, alignment racks ($15K–$40K per unit)
- Diagnostic equipment: OBD scanners, oscilloscopes, AC machines, alignment systems
- Tooling: Specialty tools for specific makes, shop tool sets
- Working capital: Parts inventory float, payroll for technicians
- Second bay/location: Leasehold improvements for shop expansion
- Marketing: Website, Google Ads, Yelp advertising for customer acquisition
Parts Float: The Auto Repair Cash Flow Challenge
Auto repair has a unique cash flow dynamic: parts must be purchased before the repair is completed and billed. A busy shop might have $30K–$50K of parts on order at any time. Bankable's revolving line of credit can fund this parts float, keeping your bays productive without depleting cash reserves.
Requirements for DACA Auto Repair Funding
| Factor | Standard |
|---|---|
| Immigration | DACA with EAD + SSN — no green card required |
| License | State auto repair license where required; ASE certifications helpful |
| Monthly Revenue | $15,000+ monthly from repair services |
| Business Age | 12 months of shop operations |
| Funding Range | $25K to $2M depending on bay count and revenue |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. DACA status with EAD and SSN qualifies for Bankable funding. For new shops, we look at personal financial history and industry experience alongside any existing revenue.
Yes. Lifts, alignment equipment, diagnostic scanners, and specialty tools are primary use cases. The equipment serves as collateral, often improving funding terms.
Yes. A revolving business line of credit is ideal for managing parts float. Draw for parts purchases, repay as repairs are billed and collected, and redraw for the next wave of orders.
General auto repair, tire shops, transmission specialists, body shops, detailing businesses, and quick-lube operations all qualify. Any auto service business with $15,000+ monthly revenue is a candidate.
Yes. Acquiring an existing shop — customer relationships, equipment, and goodwill — is a covered use case. We review the acquired shop's revenue alongside your personal financial profile.
Yes. Collision repair businesses with established insurance company relationships and consistent monthly revenue qualify. Insurance work creates predictable, documentable revenue.
Yes. Second-location expansion — including bay buildout, equipment, and working capital — is a primary use case once your first location is performing well.
EAD card, SSN, 3 months of bank statements, business license, any state-required auto repair permits, and a voided business check. No green card required.
Yes. Marketing — Google Ads, Yelp, website development, and local advertising — is a covered use case. Customer acquisition is often the bottleneck for auto shops with good technical skills but limited visibility.
Bankable's key differentiator for DACA shop owners is the absence of any citizenship requirement. Auto-industry-specific lenders often have citizenship clauses. Bankable evaluates revenue regardless of immigration status.