The term "loan provider" refers to a financial institution or an individual that provides loans to borrowers. These institutions can include banks, credit unions, online lenders, and other types of financial companies. They offer various loan products such as personal loans, auto loans, mortgages, student loans, business loans, among others. The role of a loan provider is to assess the borrower's creditworthiness and determine whether or not they are eligible for a loan based on their financial history, income, and other factors. If approved, the loan provider will disburse the funds to the borrower who then repays the loan with interest over an agreed period of time.