SBA Fee Waiver Explained: What It Means for Manufacturers and Lending Partners
Effective October 1, 2025, the SBA is making it easier, and less expensive, for manufacturers to access capital by waiving fees on both the 7(a) and 504 loan programs for businesses in NAICS Sectors 31–33. That’s right—zero upfront fees, zero annual servicing fees (for 504s), and zero excuses for not helping your manufacturing clients seize […]
The Hidden Growth Tool in Your Loan Portfolio: How to Spot SBA 504 Opportunities Before Your Competitors Do
For lenders, the SBA 504 program isn’t just another product to place on the shelf. It’s a lever for deeper relationships and stronger portfolios. The most successful institutions are the ones that anticipate borrower needs before the client even recognizes the opportunity, positioning themselves as both advisor and capital partner. With this in mind, how […]
The Succession Surge: A Prime Opportunity for SBA Lenders
A growing number of small business owners are stepping away from their businesses. Whether driven by retirement, burnout, or changing priorities, the result is clear: we’re in the middle of a small business handoff era. According to a June US Bank Small Business Perspective Survey, 37% of small business owners plan to sell their business […]
504 Changes in SBA SOP 50 10 8: What Changed on June 1, 2025 – and What It Means for SBA 504 Lending
With the SBA’s revised Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) 50 10 8 Technical Update version in effect since June 1, 2025, it’s time to prepare for key updates that will shape how we serve small businesses through the SBA 504 program. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most significant changes — and the critical elements that […]
7(a) Changes in SOP 50 10 8: What’s New and How It Impacts You
Just hearing “SOP 50 10 8” might make your eyes glaze over. But stick with us for a minute, because the latest update to the SBA’s standard operating procedures is more than just a mouthful of numbers. First Off, What Is SOP 50 10 8? For those who don’t live and breathe SBA loans, the […]
From First Loan to Lifetime Relationship: Why SBA Lending is a Game-Changer for Community Banks
For many small businesses, securing their first loan is a major milestone. It’s the financial push that allows them to launch their dream, expand operations, or invest in growth. But for community banks, an SBA loan isn’t just a transaction—it’s the start of a long-term relationship that benefits both the business and the bank. One […]
Debunking Myths About SBA Financing
SBA financing can be a great solution for real estate brokers working with clients looking to purchase commercial real estate for their business to occupy. This financing can be a fit and in many cases offers the most competitive rate and terms. Key Advantages of SBA 504 Financing Lower Down Payment: Get up to 90% […]
Leading When the Rules Change
Leadership is never tested in smooth sailing. It’s forged in the storm. Right now, with federal funding under threat of pause and uncertainty rippling through SBA and CDFI programs (and basically everything even tangentially related to federal funding), leaders are facing one of those defining moments. The question isn’t whether chaos will come—it’s how we […]
2025 Board and Committee Members
Why SBA Loans Are a Critical Tool for Bankers in 2024
In 2024, economic uncertainty continues to shape the lending landscape. Rising interest rates and tightened lending criteria have made it increasingly difficult for small businesses to access traditional financing. According to a recent survey, 77% of small business owners are concerned about their ability to secure credit, a sharp increase from previous years (1). Against […]