Access to capital remains a top concern for small business owners, but U.S. Small Business Administration leaders say lenders are confident, and new programs are expanding financing opportunities.
Following the Southeastern Small Business Lenders Conference in Savannah, Georgia, Tyler Teresa, SBA Regional Administrator, and Thomas Kimsey, Associate Administrator for the Office of Capital Access, outlined a favorable lending environment and discussed initiatives aimed at supporting small business growth and U.S. manufacturing on today’s episode of SBA Update.
“The lenders are ready, willing, and able to assist small businesses,” Teresa said. “We’re providing the resources and white-glove service needed to keep capital flowing.”
The conference celebrated Georgia’s record $1.8 billion in SBA-backed loans and emphasized collaboration between the SBA and lenders as a critical driver for small business funding. Kimsey said the event allowed SBA officials to engage directly with lenders, discuss credit risk management, and promote new financing tools.
Key Programs and Policy Focus
- Support for manufacturing and “Made in America” initiatives
- Food supply chain businesses
- Critical minerals
- Rural economic development
Expanding loan programs
SBA officials highlighted new and expanded loan programs aimed at improving access to capital:
“These programs provide flexibility and support for lenders and borrowers alike.” Thomas Kimsey
- Manufacturing Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) loan program: Provides flexible revolving lines of credit, including extended interest-only periods, to help manufacturers secure needed financing.
- Working Capital Pilot (WCP) program: Offers targeted funding to support ongoing business operations.
- Builder’s CAP line: Assists construction sector businesses with working capital needs.
According to Kimsye, “[These programs] are helping small businesses access the capital needed to grow and create jobs.”
Guidance for small business owners
- Work with SBA resource partners, including Small Business Development Centers, to become “bankable”
- Prepare complete financial documentation before approaching banks
- Engage directly with SBA and lenders for guidance and support
Teresa encouraged entrepreneurs to act now. “If you have a dream, a goal, or an ambition, now is the perfect time to start a business or grow your existing one,” he said. “The SBA, your banker, and resource partners can help make that dream a reality.”
Technology and process improvements
The SBA is also rolling out a new technology platform designed to improve interactions between lenders and borrowers. The pilot program is expected to launch in April, with a broader rollout planned throughout the year. SBA officials said the system will streamline loan processing, enhance transparency, and accelerate capital deployment.
SBA leaders emphasized that strong collaboration with lenders and the continued rollout of new programs will support small businesses nationwide. They also noted ongoing efforts to reduce regulatory burdens through initiatives such as the red tape hotline, designed to assist businesses in navigating government requirements more efficiently.
“Now is the time to leverage these programs and grow your business.” – Tyler Teresa
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