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Loans & Grants

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General Small Business Loans: 7(a)

The 7(a) Loan Program, SBA’s most common loan program, includes financial help for businesses with special requirements.

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    7(a) Loan Program Eligibility

    SBA provides loans to businesses — not individuals — so the requirements of eligibility are based on aspects of the business, not the owners.

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    Use of 7(a) Loan Proceeds

    If you are awarded a 7(a) loan, the loan proceeds may be used to establish a new business or to assist in the acquisition, operation, or expansion of an existing business.

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    7(a) Loan Repayment Terms

    Learn what the repayment terms are for 7(a) loans. 

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    7(a) Loan Amounts, Fees & Interest Rates

    The specific terms of SBA loans are negotiated between a borrower and an SBA-approved lender. In general, the following provisions apply to all SBA 7(a) loans.  

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    7(a) Loan Application Checklist

    Once you have decided to apply for a loan guaranteed by the SBA, you will need to collect the appropriate documents for your application.

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    7(a) Loan Processing Time

    There are two 7(a) loan process options with different time frames. In addition to standard procedures, SBA Express processing offers an expedited turnaround. 

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    Special Types of 7(a) Loans

    SBA offers several special purpose 7(a) loans to aid businesses that have been impacted by NAFTA, provide financial assistance to Employee Stock Ownership Plans, and help implement pollution controls.

  • Government Resource

    Find a Lender

    Find an SBA lender near you.

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    Ask a Question in the SBA Community

    Have a question about 7(a) loans? Post it in the Community.

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    7(a) Proposed Rule Change Comment Period

    SBA Revises OCA Regulations on 504 and 7(a) Loan Program to Expand Access to Loan Programs, Streamline the Application Process and Ensure Program Integrity through Enhanced Oversight

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