Get matched to potential lenders funding with competitive rates and fees.
1. Describe your needs
Answer a few questions about your business in as little as five minutes.
2. Get matched in two days
Access a curated list of lenders who express interest in your loan.
3. Talk to lenders
Compare rates, terms, fees, and more.
4. Apply for a loan
Submit loan applications and paperwork. You’re well on your way to securing a business loan!
Get ready
Before you start talking to lenders, have a look at the abbreviated checklist below to see if you’re ready to apply for an SBA loan.
- Business plan: Most lenders expect a business plan when you apply for startup funding. If you need to create one, follow our free business plan guide.
- Amount and use of funds: Know how much capital you need and how it will help your business. You can’t use an SBA-approved loan to flip a house.
- Credit history: Lenders use credit scores to determine credit risk and interest rates. SBA helps guarantee some loans that otherwise may not qualify.
- Financial projections: Show you understand your business’ finances, how the funds will be used, and how you’ll pay back the loan.
- Collateral: Many lenders require you to use another asset to guarantee your loan. This can be a home, car, inventory, or other property you own.
- Industry experience: Industry experience isn’t required, but it’s helpful. Firsthand knowledge about your industry can make your lender feel confident about making a loan.
Details
We will prepare a summary of all the interested lenders two business days after you submit a Lender Match request. From there, you can start talking to lenders and/or complete the application they provide. Some will reach out to you, and you’re welcome to contact them as well.
No, using Lender Match doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get matched or be offered a loan. Lender Match isn’t a loan application — it’s a tool to help businesses find lenders in their communities.
Ask lenders about interest rates, minimum credit score, cash flow requirements, and other qualifying factors. Get an understanding of prepayment penalties, grace periods, and if/when the lender can demand full repayment of the loan’s principal.
The personally identifiable information you share will be used to connect you with prospective SBA lenders. Registering and providing responses to the questionnaire is no guarantee that SBA-approved lenders will find you eligible for their programs.
More than 800 lenders participate in Lender Match throughout all 50 states and U.S. territories. While all lenders who use Lender Match offer SBA-approved loans, many also offer conventional loans.
We’re glad you asked! Learn about our loan programs in more detail. If you need to talk to someone about Lender Match, you can contact us or email us at lendermatch@sba.gov.