This research focuses on exploring the challenges, opportunities, and key factors affecting access to credit for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Through focus group and semi-structured interviews with 30 businesses, the study identified factors such as capital return, development potential, human factors, credit history, and social networks are very important in accessing credit. In addition, businesses that aim to develop local raw material areas, develop sustainably, create social welfare, and support women programs in the area will have easier access to credit sources. The research also sheds light on what investors look for in startups: honesty and commitment to the business. This finding emphasizes the importance of developing strategies to enhance reputation and social networks, and points to the current development trend of sustainable development associated with social responsibility, helping SMEs and startups prepare to access credit effectively, supporting regional economic growth and innovation.