Private Debt: An Expert Financing Solution for Capital Projects

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Written By AltFin

Project Finance from $250M to $5B+ for Capital Projects. 

Key Points:

Private debt offers flexible, customized loan terms, making it ideal for large-scale projects (e.g., $250M+) with unique or complex financing needs.

Private lenders provide faster approval and funding compared to traditional banks, enabling quicker execution of projects.

Unlike equity financing, private debt allows project owners to retain full ownership and control of their project while accessing substantial capital.

For project owners seeking substantial funding—starting from $250 million and beyond—private debt offers a powerful and flexible financing solution.

Unlike traditional bank loans or public markets, private debt is provided by specialized private lenders, offering tailored terms, faster execution, and access to capital for complex or unique projects.

In this guide, we’ll explore how private debt works, its benefits, and why it’s an ideal option for large-scale project financing.

What is Private Debt?

Private debt refers to loans provided by non-bank lenders, such as private credit funds, institutional investors, or specialized financing firms.3

These lenders offer debt financing directly to businesses or project owners, often for projects that require significant capital or have unique characteristics.1,2

  • Infrastructure projects (e.g., energy, transportation, utilities)
  • Real estate developments
  • Industrial or manufacturing facilities
  • Large-scale acquisitions or expansions
dollar signs and a hand

How Does Private Debt Financing Work?

Private debt financing involves borrowing funds from private lenders, who assess the project’s viability, cash flow potential, and risk profile.

Unlike traditional lenders, private lenders are often more flexible in structuring loans, offering:

  • Customized Terms: Tailored repayment schedules, interest rates, and covenants.
  • Speed and Efficiency: Faster approval and funding compared to traditional banks.
  • Higher Loan Amounts: Access to larger capital pools, often exceeding $250 million.

Private lenders assess the project’s viability, cash flow potential, and risk profile, often offering customized terms and faster execution.4 The process typically involves:

  1. Project Evaluation: Lenders assess the project’s feasibility, cash flow projections, and collateral.
  2. Term Sheet Negotiation: Terms are agreed upon, including loan amount, interest rate, and repayment schedule.
  3. Funding: Once approved, funds are disbursed to support the project’s development or operations.
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Key Benefits of Private Debt for Project Owners

Private debt has gained popularity as a flexible and efficient financing option, particularly for large-scale projects as it offers:5 

  1. Flexibility: Private lenders can structure loans to meet the unique needs of your project, such as deferred repayments during the construction phase.
  2. Access to Large Capital: Private debt is ideal for projects requiring $250 million or more, where traditional financing may fall short.
  3. Speed: Private lenders often have streamlined processes, enabling faster access to funds.
  4. No Equity Dilution: Unlike equity financing, private debt allows you to retain full ownership of your project.
  5. Tailored Solutions: Private lenders are experienced in handling complex projects, offering creative financing solutions.

Private Debt vs. Traditional Financing

Private DebtTraditional Bank Loans
SpeedFaster approval and fundingLengthy approval processes
FlexibilityCustomized terms and structuresStandardized terms
Loan SizeOften exceeds $250 millionLimited by bank lending caps
Risk AppetiteHigher tolerance for complex projectsMore conservative
Collateral RequirementsFlexible, based on project cash flowsStrict, asset-based

Private debt is increasingly favored for its ability to handle larger loan amounts and complex structures, making it a preferred choice for institutional investors.6

money stacks, magnifier and charts

When is Private Debt the Right Choice?

Private debt is an excellent option for project owners who:

  • Require $250 million or more in financing.
  • Need flexible terms to align with project timelines.
  • Are developing complex or unique projects that may not fit traditional lending criteria.
  • Seek to avoid diluting equity or losing control of their project.

How to Access Private Debt Finance

  1. Identify the Right Lender: Look for private credit funds or lenders with experience in your industry or project type.
  2. Prepare a Strong Proposal: Highlight your project’s viability, cash flow potential, and risk mitigation strategies.
  3. Negotiate Terms: Work with lenders to structure a loan that aligns with your project’s needs.
  4. Close the Deal: Finalize the agreement and secure funding to move your project forward.
suitcase with money

Why Choose Private Debt for Your Project?

Private debt is more than just financing—it’s a strategic tool for unlocking the potential of large-scale projects.

With its flexibility, speed, and access to substantial capital, private debt empowers project owners to bring their visions to life without compromising control or equity.

Explore Project Finance > $250M

REFERENCES:

  1. PitchBook, Kelly Knickerbocker, Rachel Martinez, What is private debt? The ultimate guide (2024), retrieved from https://pitchbook.com/blog/what-is-private-debt
  2. Investopedia, Michael Bromberg, Private Credit vs. Private Equity: Understanding the Differences, retrieved from https://www.investopedia.com/private-credit-vs-private-equity-7565530
  3. Investopedia, What Are the Main Types of Debt?, retrieved from https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/110614/what-are-main-categories-debt.asp
  4. Prequin, Private Debt, retrieved from https://www.preqin.com/academy/lesson-4-asset-class-101s/private-debt
  5. Forbes, Kelli Click, Why Private Debt Has Become A Popular Alternative Asset For SDIRA Investors, retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/kelliclick/2021/12/21/why-private-debt-has-become-a-popular-alternative-asset-for-sdira-investors/?sh=5457689b5879
  6. Institutional investor, Hannah Zhang, In Private Credit, Bigger Is Better — At Least When Attracting Assets, retrieved from https://www.institutionalinvestor.com/article/2bstms42qkeyqcr25faio/portfolio/in-private-credit-bigger-is-better-at-least-when-attracting-assets
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