Government Business Loan Programs
Access SBA-backed loans and state financing programs designed to help small businesses get affordable capital. From $500 microloans to $5M+ in real estate financing.
SBA Loan Programs
SBA 7(a) Loan
$5,000,000
Up to 10 years (working capital) or 25 years (real estate)
Working capital, equipment, real estate, refinancing
85% (loans ≤$150K) / 75% (loans >$150K)
Key Highlights:
- Most flexible SBA loan program
- Can be used for almost any business purpose
- Includes SBA Express (up to $500K, faster approval)
SBA 504 Loan
$5,500,000
10, 20, or 25 years
Major fixed assets (land, buildings, equipment)
50% SBA / 40% bank / 10% borrower
Key Highlights:
- Long-term, fixed-rate financing
- Requires only 10% down payment
- Cannot be used for working capital
SBA Microloan
$50,000
Up to 6 years
Working capital, inventory, supplies, equipment
Varies by intermediary lender
Key Highlights:
- Average loan size: $13,000
- For startups and underserved communities
- Includes business training and support
SBA Disaster Loans
$2,000,000
Up to 30 years
Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)
Direct SBA loan
Key Highlights:
- Low interest rates (typically 3-4%)
- Available after declared disasters
- Working capital for businesses affected by disasters
Quick Comparison
| Program | Max Amount | Down Payment | Best For | Approval Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7(a) Loan | $5M | 10-20% | General business needs | 2-4 weeks |
| 504 Loan | $5.5M | 10% | Real estate & equipment | 4-8 weeks |
| Microloan | $50K | Varies | Startups & small needs | 1-2 weeks |
| Disaster Loan | $2M | None | Disaster recovery | 2-3 weeks |
How to Qualify
Credit Score
Generally need 680+ for SBA 7(a), 650+ for others. Higher scores improve terms.
Time in Business
Most programs require 2+ years in business. Microloans accept newer businesses.
Revenue Requirements
Demonstrate sufficient cash flow to repay loan. Typically 1.25x debt service coverage.
Collateral
Usually required for loans over $25K. Can include business assets, real estate, or personal guarantees.
Business Plan
Strong business plan with financial projections is essential for approval.
SBA Size Standards
Must qualify as a small business (varies by industry, typically <500 employees).
State Business Loan Programs
Many states offer their own loan programs with favorable terms for local businesses. These can be used alongside or instead of SBA loans.
California
California Capital Access Program (CalCAP)
Helps small businesses get loans they otherwise couldn't qualify for.
Learn moreNew York
NY State Excelsior Linked Deposit Program
Reduced-interest loans for manufacturers and exporters.
Learn moreFlorida
Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan
Short-term, interest-free loans for disaster-affected businesses.
Learn moreApplication Tips
✅ Do:
- • Prepare detailed financial statements (3 years)
- • Write a comprehensive business plan
- • Improve your credit score before applying
- • Shop around with multiple lenders
- • Consider working with an SBA lender specialist
- • Have collateral ready to pledge
❌ Don't:
- • Apply with incomplete documentation
- • Overstate revenue or understate expenses
- • Ignore your credit issues
- • Rush the application process
- • Borrow more than you can realistically repay
- • Forget to factor in all business expenses
Ready to Apply for a Business Loan?
GrantNavigation helps you find the right loan program and connects you with SBA-approved lenders.