SBA Financing

SBA Financing

SBA Loans Options to Grow your Business

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SBA Financing Options for Your Business

What is an SBA loan?

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is a U.S. government entity whose mission is “to maintain and strengthen the nation’s economy by enabling the establishment and viability of small businesses…”. As part of this mission, the SBA’s lending programs offers business loans that are partially guaranteed by the agency, meaning that the SBA will “stand behind” a portion of the loan. In other words, should a borrower default on their SBA loan, the SBA will reimburse the bank for a portion of its incurred losses. This guarantee reduces risk for bank lenders and in turn allows more American small businesses to access capital.

 

It’s important to note that the SBA does not originate SBA loans itself. Instead, the SBA workswith commercial banks and other approved financial institutions to originate the loans.

SBA Loan Programs

The SBA offers a variety of loan programs that differ based on loan size and purpose. Some of the terms in an SBA loan are standard and dictated by the SBA’s Standard Operating Procedures (maximum loan amount, loan maturity, maximum interest rates), while others vary widely lender-to-lender (effective interest rates, debt service coverage requirements, closing costs and fees). Popular SBA loan programs include 7(a) Loans, 7(a) International Trade Loans, 7(a) Export Working Capital Loans, and 504 Loans.

 

The SBA also provides dedicated programs for loans below $500,000, including 7a Small Loans, SBAExpress, Export Express, or Non-7a Microloans. More information on these loans can be found in the SBA’s Quick Reference guide.

 

It is important to note that the 7a program has the most broad applications and is one of the most common types of SBA loans. Specifically, the 7a structure provides a great option for business acquisitions, refinancing, working capital, or expansion capital for U.S. small businesses.

What kinds of businesses qualify for SBA 7a loans?

  • Operate for profit
  • Operate in an eligible industry
  • Meet the SBA’s size standards of a “small business”
  • Be engaged in business in the United States
  • Use alternative financial resources, including personal assets, before seeking SBA financing

In addition, the owner or owners must be:

  • U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents
  • Willing to provide a personal guarantee
  • Willing to provide 10-20% of cash equity if financing an acquisition

However, the SBA does have specific industries that are ineligible for SBA Loans. Those include gambling, lending, real estate investment, coin or stamp dealers, and charitable or religious organizations. 

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