Those who have neither customers nor relatives or friends who can help with financing, or who simply don't like working with banks, have it much easier today than before 2007. Entrepreneurs or founders can post their loan or credit requests on Internet platforms, following the example of the "eBay" auction platform, and hope that lenders will come forward. Also for those who need financing between 1.000 and 25.000 euros, this route can be a sensible solution.
What is still in its infancy in Germany has long since become established in the USA with prosper*com. However, registration there is only possible for US citizens. It is expected that money transactions via the Internet will continue to grow in Germany as well. The "zopa" platform is active in England, the USA, Japan and Italy, for example – we may hear about it in German-speaking countries as well. One thing is for sure: It is exciting to watch the further development – such a young industry with good prospects for the future will certainly still change. But the foundation stone has been laid, and many small companies and also small investors are benefiting from it.