SBA Programs
Here are some of the loan programs offered by the SBA. For a complete list and details on how to apply, visit www.sba.gov.

7(a) Loans:
The primary SBA loan program helps small businesses that might not be eligible for loans through normal lending channels. Money can be used for a variety of business purposes. The loans are made through commercial lenders and partially backed by an SBA guaranty.

In fiscal 2006, SBA backed 90,483 of these loans.

CDC 504 Loans:
Made through a certified development company, a 504 loan provides long-term, fixed-rate financing for real estate, machinery or equipment. Typically, the loan involves a private-sector lender with a senior lien, a certified development company and at least 10 percent equity from the borrower.

A list of CDCs is on the SBA Web site.

Microloans:
Provide short-term loans of up to $35,000 for working capital or purchases, but canât be used for real estate. The loan is through a nonprofit community based lender. The typical microloan size is about $13,700.

A list of microloan intermediaries is on the SBA Web site.