Growing Your Small Business In The New Year

As we enter the New Year, many business owners will spend some time evaluating new opportunities and addressing any challenges that may have popped up over the last year or two. Almost every growth strategy, business expansion, or significant equipment purchase will require additional capital. With interest rates still considered historically low, now may be the time for small business owners to learn more about their financing options.  That’s where the Small Business Administration (SBA) combined with the resources of First Independent Bank can help. 

As long as an applicant meets all credit approvals and submits the required legal documentation, SBA loans can be a great resource offering beneficial loan rates and longer terms than conventional financing.

The SBA’s most common loan program is the 7(a) loan. 

This type of loan can be used for several purposes, including: 

• Working Capital
• Purchase of Equipment
• Purchase of a Franchise
• Refinancing Debt
• Purchase of Real Estate

One of the first decisions a business owner will have to make is what is the loan’s purpose, according to Roe Belzer, director, business banking at Bank of Nevada. “What project are you trying to accomplish? With that answer, a business owner will need to determine what resources - including a cash down payment - is available to contribute to the desired project. That’s one way to determine if the SBA loan will be beneficial to you and your business.”

A 7(a) loan can range from a few thousand dollars up to a maximum of $5 million. 

A borrower can choose a fixed-rate or variable-interest-rate loan.

Who is eligible for a 7(a) loan?

Most small businesses are eligible for financial assistance from the SBA, with some exceptions that your banker can provide. The more general eligibility conditions include:

• Business must be a for-profit entity
• Be a small business as defined by the SBA
• Doing business in the United States
• Have reasonable owner equity to invest (typically minimum of 10% equity)

The first step in determining whether a SBA 7(a) loan is the right option for your business is to speak with an experienced banker. Our SBA Banking Team is ready to help and will provide the experienced insight that Northern Nevada businesses have come to rely upon.

For more information, call First Independent Bank at 775-828-2000 or contact your relationship manager.