Forecasts are judged on their assumptions
Lenders rarely argue with the spreadsheet. They argue with the assumptions underneath it. Make every key driver explicit and show how sensitive the plan is to each one.
Talk to existing lenders first
An early, candid conversation with your current lenders often produces better terms than an unexpected process with new ones. Surprises cost more than bad news.
Keep options open
Running a parallel conversation with alternative lenders, even informally, gives you leverage and a fallback if the first route stalls.