SBA Rural Business Set-Aside
SBA-guaranteed 7(a) and 504 loans up to $5 million with rural lending priority for businesses in towns of 50,000 or fewer residents.
About this program
The Small Business Administration delivers core lending products to rural small businesses through its 7(a) and 504 programs, with special attention to rural underwriting through the Community Advantage Small Business Lending Company (CA SBLC) framework. Rural businesses can use SBA 7(a) loans up to $5 million for working capital, equipment, real estate, and acquisitions, and SBA 504 loans up to $5.5 million for fixed-asset purchases. SBA Lender Match connects rural entrepreneurs with SBA-approved lenders in their region, and many rural lenders are mission-driven CDFIs.
Eligibility
Small businesses meeting SBA size standards located in any U.S. area, with specific rural underwriting priority and outreach for businesses in towns under 50,000 residents; demonstrated ability to repay; reasonable owner equity.
Requirements
- SBA size standards compliance
- Owner equity investment
- Business plan