Growth in a business is exciting, but it may be too much for a small business to handle. An SBA 7(a) loan can keep a business going until it moves on to the next stage of its growth and beyond. We'll explain what an SBA 7(a) loan is, why your small business might need one, and how to get the process started so you can learn more about it.

 

SBA 7(a) loans are often appealing to small business owners because they have historically low interest rates, require little or no collateral, and have flexible repayment terms.

 

SBA 7 (a) Loan: A quick overview

 

The SBA 7(a) loan program is the flagship initiative of the U.S. Small Business Administration, aimed at supporting small businesses that may encounter difficulties in securing traditional business loans. By providing affordable access to working capital, the program reduces risk for approved lenders, encouraging them to extend credit to small businesses. Through loan guarantees, the Small Business Administration fosters financial inclusivity, enabling small enterprises to pursue growth opportunities and achieve their business goals.

 

Ready to unlock your business's growth potential? Discover the power of SBA 7(a) loans with BusinessCashandCapital. Our expert team is here to guide you through the loan application process and help you access the affordable working capital your business needs.

 

How does SBA 7(a) Loan works?

 

SBA 7(a) loans function as a partnership between small businesses, SBA-approved lenders, and the U.S. Small Business Administration itself. To get started, you'll need to identify an SBA-approved lender and meet specific eligibility criteria, which we'll discuss further in this article. Once you're ready to proceed, the lender might request a down payment ranging from 10% to 20%. The SBA values borrowers who are willing to invest their own equity in their business ventures. For loans exceeding $350,000, collateral might be required, but for amounts below $25,000, collateral is generally not necessary. This financial arrangement creates a conducive environment for small businesses to access the financial freedom they need to grow and succeed.

 

What is SBA 7 (a) Loan Types

 
7a LOAN TYPES   LOAN AMOUNT   REPAYMENT TERMS   GUARANTEE COVERAGE
STANDARD 7(a) LOAN:   Get funding of up to a generous $5 million.   You get 10 years to utilize the funds for equipment or working capital. For real estate investments, you get a substantial 25 years.   The SBA backs you up with an 85% guarantee for loans up to $150,000 and 75% for loans exceeding $150,000.
7(a) SMALL LOAN:     Secure up to $350,000 to fuel your business growth.     Just like the Standard 7(a) Loan, you get 10 years for equipment or working capital and 25 years for real estate ventures.     Enjoy an 85% guarantee for loans up to $150,000 and 75% for loans beyond $150,000.
COMMUNITY ADVANTAGE LOAN   A considerable $350,000 to support your aspirations.   Use the funds for 10 years on equipment or working capital and 25 years for real estate projects.   The SBA offers an 85% guarantee for loans up to $150,000 and 75% for loans exceeding $150,000. However, for International Trade loans, the guarantee goes up to 90%.
EXPRESS LOAN:   A flexible option with up to $500,000 in funds.   Enjoy up to 7 years for revolving lines of credit and 10 years for equipment or working capital. If you're diving into real estate, you'll have 25 years.   The SBA provides a 50% guarantee to support your ambitions.
EXPORT EXPRESS LOAN:   Up to $500,000 to facilitate your export dreams.   Use the funds for up to 7 years for revolving lines of credit, 10 years for equipment or working capital, and 25 years for real estate.   Take advantage of a 90% guarantee for loans up to $350,000 and 75% for loans over $350,000.
EXPORT WORKING CAPITAL LOAN:   A substantial $5 million to fuel your export business.   Enjoy up to 7 years for revolving lines of credit and 10 years for equipment or working capital. If you're diving into real estate, you'll have 25 years.   Enjoy a robust 90% guarantee to ensure you have the support you need.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE LOAN:   A significant $5 million for businesses with international trade aspirations.   The loan period spans from 10 to 25 years.   The SBA stands firmly behind you with a 90% guarantee.
CAP LINES:   Access up to $5 million to meet your working capital needs.   Use the funds for up to 10 years.   Get an 85% guarantee for loans under $150,000 and 75% for loans exceeding $150,000.
 

What are the Eligibility Criteria for SBA 7(a) loan?

   

If you are interested in applying for an SBA 7(a) loan, you'll need to follow several key steps to secure the financing you need:

  Determine Eligibility:

Ensure that your business meets the SBA 7(a) loan eligibility criteria, which include being a small business operating for profit in the United States, having a sound business purpose, and demonstrating the ability to repay the loan.

  Identify the Right Loan Type:

Understand the specific requirements of the SBA 7(a) loan program and determine if it aligns with your business needs and growth goals.

  Find an SBA-Approved Lender:

Research and connect with an SBA-approved lender that offers the SBA 7(a) loan program. These lenders are well-versed in SBA loan processes and can guide you through the application.

 

an SBA-approved lender, to navigate the SBA 7(a) loan application seamlessly. Take the next step towards securing the funding your business needs to thrive.

  Gather Required Documentation:

Prepare essential business documentation, including financial statements, business plan, tax returns, and any other relevant information that supports your loan application.

  Complete the Application:

Fill out the SBA 7(a) loan application provided by your chosen lender. Be thorough and accurate in providing all requested information to expedite the approval process.

  Await Loan Approval:

The lender will review your application and supporting documents to assess your loan eligibility. If approved, you will receive a loan agreement outlining the terms and conditions.

  Sign the Loan Agreement:

Once you agree to the loan terms, sign the loan agreement to formalize the loan process.

  Provide Collateral:

For SBA 7(a) loans exceeding $25,000, you may be required to provide collateral, which could be business or personal assets, to secure the loan.

 

By following these steps and meeting the SBA 7(a) loan eligibility criteria, you can position your business for a successful loan application and access the working capital you need to fuel growth and achieve your business aspirations.

 

Unlock your business's growth potential today. Contact us now to get more information about loan funding for business expansion.

 

Conclusion

 

An SBA 7(a) loan can be a game-changer for small businesses that want to get out of financial trouble and grow. With low interest rates, good terms for paying back the loan, and fewer requirements for collateral, this loan program helps entrepreneurs reach their business goals and open up new opportunities. By knowing the benefits of SBA 7(a) loans and following the steps to start the application process, small business owners can confidently take on the journey of expansion and set themselves up for long-term success.


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