If you are looking for small business loans, the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) is an excellent starting point. The SBA offers a variety of financial aid programs and support. Here are some of the loan programs available through the SBA:
The 7 (a) Loan Program
The 7(a) loan program is part of the Small Business Act which permits the SBA to provide loans to small businesses in the United States. This program is the most widely used SBA loan program. Loans are granted by participating lenders who are guaranteed a portion of the loan by the SBA. The lender grants the loan according to the 7(a) structure and in return receives a partial guarantee on the loan.
Designed to help mostly low and moderate income areas increase their chances of receiving a loan.
Up to $500,000 available for military personnel; veterans, active duty military, reservist, National Guard and their spouses.
The maximum amount for this loan is $350,000loan, it is guaranteed by the SBA. Eligibility is determined by a qualified lender.
Designed to provide the lender with fast and efficient service on loan applications received from lenders who have a successful SBA lending track record.
This loan program allows the SBA’s to continue in its process of “streamlining” the procedures necessary to provide financial assistance to the small business community.
Special Purpose Loans
These loans are part of the 7(a) Loan Program but features a number of special purpose loans that address particular business needs.
Designed to help small businesses attain their short-term and cyclical working-capital needs.
For businesses that have exporting potential but also a history of difficulty acquiring export financing.
Provides guaranteed loans for employee trusts as long as certain qualifications can met.
Helps eligible small businesses control environmental pollution and contamination by providing financial assistance.
To help small businesses that are able to generate export sales and need additional working capital to support these sales.
For businesses that are preparing to enter into international trade, or are already a global exporter.
Designed to help eligible small business contractors transition from defense to commercial markets.
As a homeowner, renter and/or personal-property owner, you may apply to the SBA for a loan to help you recover from a disaster.
Providing small businesses with loans for working capital or necessary purchases like inventory, supplies and so on.
Sureties receive guarantees that SBA will assume a predetermined percentage of loss in the event the contractor should breach the terms of the contract.
A Certified Development Company (CDC) are nonprofit corporation set up to contribute to the economic development of its community.
In addition to financial aid loans and grants, the SBA offers many free online business courses and other support in the form of counseling and assistance, resources and contract opportunities.