SBA Loans — the lowest rates in small business lending.
SBA loans are government-backed, which means lenders take on less risk — and pass the savings to you in the form of lower interest rates and longer repayment terms. We match you to SBA-approved lenders who can close faster than most banks.
How SBA Loans works with Gateway Capital
Submit a single application with basic business and financial information. No hard credit pull at this stage.
Our engine routes your application to SBA-approved lenders in our network who specialize in your loan size and industry.
Receive offers from multiple lenders with full transparency on rates, terms, and fees. Your specialist walks you through each one.
SBA loans typically close in 2–4 weeks. Funds are deposited directly to your business bank account.
Why businesses choose SBA Loans
SBA loans consistently offer the lowest interest rates of any business loan product — because the government guarantees up to 85% of the loan, lenders can offer better terms.
Up to 10 years for working capital, up to 25 years for real estate. Longer terms mean lower monthly payments and better cash flow.
Borrow up to $5 million — more than most conventional business loans. Ideal for major growth initiatives, acquisitions, or real estate.
SBA loans can be used for almost any legitimate business purpose — working capital, equipment, real estate, inventory, debt refinancing, and more.
We connect you to SBA-approved lenders who specialize in your industry and loan size — not generic banks that may decline you.
SBA loans under 15 years carry no prepayment penalty — pay off early without any fees.
When to use SBA Loans
Business Expansion
Open a second location, expand your service area, or scale your team.
A restaurant owner borrows $350,000 to open a second location in a neighboring city.
Real Estate Purchase
Buy the commercial property your business operates in — or invest in commercial real estate.
A dental practice borrows $1.2M to purchase the building they've been renting for 6 years.
Equipment Acquisition
Purchase major equipment with long-term financing at the best available rates.
A manufacturer borrows $800,000 to purchase a CNC machine and upgrade their production line.
Working Capital
Fund ongoing operations, payroll, marketing, or inventory.
A staffing agency uses a $200,000 SBA loan to bridge payroll while waiting on client payments.
Debt Refinancing
Consolidate higher-rate existing debt into a single low-rate SBA loan.
A logistics company refinances $500K in high-rate debt into an SBA term loan, cutting their effective rate by 60%.
Business Acquisition
Buy an existing business, franchise, or competitor.
An entrepreneur uses a $750,000 SBA loan to acquire an established HVAC company with $2M in annual revenue.
One 2-minute application. Matched to the best sba loans lenders for your profile.
Common questions about SBA Loans
How can an SBA loan help my business?
An SBA loan gives you access to the largest amounts of capital at the lowest interest rates available to small businesses. Because the government guarantees a portion of the loan, lenders can offer rates and terms they couldn't otherwise provide. This translates to lower monthly payments, more flexible use of funds, and longer repayment timelines — giving your business room to grow without being crushed by debt service.
What is the difference between SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loans?
The SBA 7(a) is the most common type — flexible use of funds including working capital, equipment, and acquisitions. The SBA 504 is specifically for major fixed assets like real estate and large equipment, typically offering lower rates on those asset types but with stricter use restrictions. Our matching engine recommends the right type based on your needs.
What credit score do I need for an SBA loan?
Most SBA lenders look for a personal credit score of 650 or above. However, the full picture matters — lenders also evaluate business revenue, time in business, industry, and the strength of your business plan. Some lenders in our network work with scores as low as 620.
How long does the SBA loan process take?
SBA Express loans can close in 36 hours to 2 weeks. Standard SBA 7(a) loans typically take 2–6 weeks from application to funding. SBA 504 loans can take 4–8 weeks due to the more complex structure. Our lender partners are among the fastest in the country.
Can a startup get an SBA loan?
Startups can access certain SBA programs, but most SBA 7(a) loans require at least 2 years of business history. If you're under 2 years old, we'll match you to alternative products that are more appropriate for your stage.
Do I need collateral for an SBA loan?
SBA loans under $25,000 typically require no collateral. For larger amounts, lenders will try to collateralize with business assets first. Personal guarantee is required for owners with 20%+ ownership.
What can SBA loan funds be used for?
SBA loan proceeds can be used for working capital, inventory, equipment, furniture, renovations, real estate, business acquisition, franchise fees, and debt refinancing. Personal use is not permitted.
Other funding products
Get matched to SBA Loans lenders today.
Two minutes to apply. No hard credit pull. Funded in 2–4 weeks.
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