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SBA Loans

Government-Backed Loans that Help Grow Your Business

Self-Help is an approved SBA lender and participates in the SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loan programs. Small businesses will need to submit a standard Self-Help application and work with a Self-Help loan officer to determine whether an SBA program is a good option.

SBA 7(a) Loans

The SBA 7(a) loan program may be a good option for businesses that have cash flow to make loan payments, but lack sufficient collateral or operating history to obtain a loan. SBA 7(a) loans may be used for a variety of business purposes, and are typically secured by all available assets. The SBA 7(a) program offers the advantages of the SBA Community Advantage program that some other CDFIs offer, but SBA 7(a) loans generally have lower interest rates and no technical assistance requirements.

SBA 504 Loans

The SBA 504 loan program may be a good option for businesses that are financing the acquisition or improvement of major fixed assets, such as the building where your business operates, or durable machinery/equipment for your business. SBA 504 loans have low down payments and generally are secured only by the assets being financed. Unlike SBA 7(a) loans, under the SBA 504 loan program, you will finance a portion of your project (typically 50% of the total project costs) with a lender like Self-Help, and you will work with a local SBA 504 CDC to finance the SBA subordinate portion (up to 40% of the total project costs).

If the SBA 504 loan program is the right solution for your business, we’ll help connect you with a local 504 CDC as we work together to finance your project. You can also find local 504 CDCs on SBA’s website at SBA Find Local Assistance by searching under “Certified Development Companies” in your zip code. 

To learn more about SBA loan programs, visit SBA's website at SBA Loan Programs.

Farm Fresh is a sweet potato distribution business in Eastern North Carolina. Self-Help was privileged to work with Farm Fresh on an SBA 504 loan that helped the business expand. Watch this video to see their story!