Business Credit
The longest terms in small business lending, with SBA loans.
SBA 7(a) and 504 loans are made by banks and approved lenders and partially guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, which allows longer terms than most business loans. We help you package the file and match it to the right SBA lender.
How it works
From application to SBA approval
Pre-qualify
We check time in business, cash flow, credit and your use of funds against SBA rules before you apply.
Package the file
Financial statements, tax returns, a debt schedule and a clear use-of-funds plan, organized the way SBA lenders want them.
Lender approval and closing
The lender underwrites, the SBA guarantee is secured, and the loan closes. SBA timelines run longer, so we start early.
Is it a fit?
SBA fits established businesses with a plan
Good fit if
- Two or more years in business with documented profits
- Good personal credit and no delinquent government debt
- A clear use of funds: expansion, equipment, real estate or buying a business
- You can wait several weeks for long-term terms
What you will need
- Signed application and SBA borrower forms
- Business tax returns for the last 3 years
- Personal tax returns for each owner of 20% or more
- Year-to-date P&L and balance sheet
- Business debt schedule
- Personal financial statement for each owner of 20% or more
- Use-of-funds plan, plus the purchase agreement or quotes if you are buying
Send documents as PDFs. SBA loans are made by participating lenders; Elephants Capital is not the SBA and is not endorsed by it.
Common uses
Get Your Quote
See how much you qualify for
Takes 30 seconds. A funding specialist reaches out right away with real options.
- Answered fast, any hour
- Clear terms before you sign anything
Questions
SBA Loans questions
How long does an SBA loan take?
Longer than our other programs, often several weeks to a few months depending on the lender and the loan. If you need capital sooner, we can look at short-term options while the SBA loan is in process.
What is the difference between 7(a) and 504?
7(a) is the most flexible SBA loan, used for working capital, equipment, real estate and acquisitions. 504 is built for major fixed assets such as owner-occupied real estate and large equipment, with part of the financing from a Certified Development Company.
Do I need collateral?
SBA lenders take available collateral and usually a personal guarantee from owners of 20% or more, but the SBA does not decline a loan for lack of collateral alone when everything else qualifies.
Are there fees?
The SBA charges lenders a guarantee fee that is usually passed on to the borrower. If an agent or packaging fee applies, it is disclosed to you in writing and reported to the SBA on Form 159, as SBA rules require.
Related programs
Other ways to fund
Business Term Loans
Fixed funding with clear terms for expansion, renovations, hiring and bigger plays.
Learn more →Business Line of Credit
Revolving capital you draw only when you need it. Cover gaps and move on deals without reapplying.
Learn more →Commercial Real Estate
Multifamily, mixed-use, retail, office and industrial, matched to the right lender for the asset.
Learn more →Ready to move your business forward?
Apply today and get a decision fast. A real answer when you call, and clear terms before you sign.