Real Questions,
Real Answers
We’ve loved hearing from so many of you about our SMBX community raise—your curiosity, encouragement, and thoughtful questions mean the world to us. Since a lot of the same questions keep popping up, we pulled them together in one place so everyone can get the answers. These are real questions from our community, and we’ll keep updating this list (which can also be found on our website) as more come in.
What is a bond?
A bond is like a loan — but instead of borrowing from a bank, a business borrows from individual investors: local community members, customers, or anyone on the SMBX platform.
How is it repaid?
Just like a loan, bonds are repaid monthly. Each payment includes both principal and interest.
What is SMBX?
SMBX is a U.S.-based online marketplace where small businesses raise capital by issuing small business bonds directly to the public instead of taking out traditional bank loans.
How does bond repayment work?
SMBX bonds are fully amortized. Each monthly payment is made up of both principal and interest, and investors start earning interest as soon as the bond settles. Payments go directly into investors’ accounts each month.
How does it work for investors?
- Sign up at SMBX.com or download the app.
- Set up your profile with a checking account or credit card.
- Purchase shares in Wellspent Market — it’s pretty simple.
How does it work for Wellspent?
- We set the fundraising goal.
- Folks buy bonds.
- We make one payment each month to SMBX, and they distribute it to investors.
Do you have to raise the full $250K to get any funds?
No — our minimum raise was $10K, and we hit that on day one.
Why did you choose SMBX?
Other Portland small businesses we admire — like Away Days Brewing, Connect Wellness, and Way of Being — have used SMBX successfully.
How long has SMBX been in business?
SMBX was founded in 2016, and the first offering launched in 2019.
How many bonds has SMBX listed?
So far, more than 250 offerings have been listed.
What are you doing with the money?
We’re growing our deli. Division Street might be packed with restaurants, but the neighborhood still needs a great deli — and we’re here to answer the call.
Have more questions?
We're happy to chat just send an email to solutions@wellspentmarket.com