Key Takeaways
- DACA entrepreneurs operate independent gyms, boxing clubs, yoga studios, and CrossFit affiliates across the US
- Bankable funds gym equipment, membership growth capital, and second location expansion with no citizenship requirement
- Membership-based recurring revenue is excellent bankability evidence for Bankable funding
- SBA gym loans now closed to DACA owners — Bankable's 48-hour decisions fill the gap
- Your membership count and monthly dues revenue are your bankability — no green card needed
Fitness entrepreneurship is a natural fit for DACA recipients who grew up training in American gyms and understand their communities' health needs. From boxing gyms in Chicago's Little Village to CrossFit affiliates in San Antonio to yoga studios in Phoenix, DACA entrepreneurs have built fitness businesses that serve their neighbors. Bankable is built to fund that community investment.
Fitness Business Funding Uses
- Equipment: Cardio machines, free weights, squat racks, boxing rings, yoga props
- Buildout: Flooring, mirrors, HVAC, locker rooms, reception area
- Member acquisition: Marketing campaigns, referral programs, grand opening promotions
- Technology: Gym management software, access control, member app
- Second location: Full capital stack for a second gym location
- Working capital: Payroll for trainers and staff, utilities, insurance
Membership Revenue: Why Gyms Are Strong Bankable Clients
Monthly membership dues create one of the most predictable recurring revenue streams in small business. A gym with 300 members at $50/month generates $15,000/month in baseline revenue before personal training, classes, or retail. This recurring, bank-verifiable revenue is exactly what Bankable's underwriting model values.
Requirements for DACA Fitness Business Funding
| Factor | Standard |
|---|---|
| Immigration | DACA with EAD + SSN — no green card required |
| Monthly Revenue | $10,000+ monthly from memberships, classes, and training |
| Business Age | 12 months of operation |
| Business Type | Independent gym, studio, CrossFit affiliate, martial arts school, yoga studio |
| Funding Range | $25K to $2M for gym-level; up to $5M for multi-location fitness brands |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. DACA status with EAD and SSN qualifies to own and operate a fitness business. Your gym's membership revenue is the primary Bankable qualification factor.
Yes. Cardio machines, free weights, power racks, boxing equipment, and studio-specific gear are all fundable. Equipment serves as collateral, improving funding terms.
Yes. CrossFit affiliate fees, buildout, equipment, and working capital are all covered. CrossFit affiliates with established membership bases are strong Bankable candidates.
Independent gyms, CrossFit affiliates, boxing and MMA clubs, yoga studios, Pilates studios, martial arts schools, cycling studios, and functional fitness facilities all qualify.
Yes. Marketing and member acquisition campaigns for new gym openings are fundable. Getting to breakeven membership quickly is critical, and we can fund the marketing to get there.
Yes. Personal training studios and independent trainers with established client bases and $10,000+ monthly revenue qualify for business funding.
Yes. Second-location expansion is a primary use case once your first location reaches profitable membership levels. We structure tranches for the full second-location capital stack.
Bank statements, gym management software reports (Mindbody, Zen Planner, ClubReady), and membership agreement documentation are all accepted. Recurring monthly membership charges are particularly clear evidence.
Yes. Access control systems, member management software, and facility technology improvements are covered use cases. Technology investment directly improves member experience and retention.
For gyms less than 12 months old, we can review your trajectory and membership growth rate. Some newer gyms with strong growth curves and good personal financial history may qualify for smaller initial tranches.