I simply wrote a letter to the issuer explaining my plans for my start-up consulting business, based on my actual experiences and qualifications, and what I planned to do with the business, including why I needed a business credit card separate from my personal accounts. The business has the same name as my personal name. I also have an excellent credit rating and got the card with no problem. I'd suggest printing off the application, enclosing the letter and doing it by mail, so a real human looks at it. It worked for me, anyway.