SBA 7(a) Loans
Market Direct Capital connects borrowers with experienced private non-bank SBA lenders for 7(a) financing. We focus on clear packaging, practical structures, and a smooth path from pre-qualification to closing so you can fund acquisitions, working capital, equipment, or owner-occupied real estate with confidence.
Where 7(a) fits
SBA 7(a) is a versatile program designed to support growth, transitions, and long-term stability for small and lower middle-market businesses.
- Business acquisition or partner buyout: Fund control changes with sensible equity and post-close liquidity.
- Working capital and growth: Hiring, marketing, inventory, and contract mobilization.
- Equipment: New or used assets with terms aligned to useful life.
- Owner-occupied real estate: Purchase or refinance when the business occupies the majority of the space.
- Refinance eligible debt: Improve cash flow where SBA rules allow.
Typical structures
Exact terms depend on lender guidelines and SBA rules. Common patterns include:
- Amortization: Working capital and equipment commonly longer-term amortization; owner-occupied real estate receives the longest available amortization.
- Rates and fees: Priced within SBA limits. All fees are disclosed up front before engagement.
- Security: Available business assets pledged; additional collateral considered case by case.
- Guarantees: Personal guarantees typically required for 20% or greater owners.
- Prepayment: May include standard SBA prepayment provisions on certain terms.
What lenders review
Underwriting focuses on the ability to repay, management strength, and overall credit profile.
- Cash flow and DSCR: Historical and projected ability to service debt.
- Experience: Owner and management background relevant to the business.
- Financials: Trends in revenue, margins, and working capital management.
- Collateral: Business assets and additional support when required.
- Use of funds: Clear plan with realistic assumptions and milestones.
Process
We coordinate packaging and communication so review stays organized and timelines remain clear.
- Read-out: Goals, timing, and eligibility review with a concise document list.
- Packaging: Executive summary, sources and uses, projections where needed, and supporting schedules.
- Underwriting: Direct dialogue with the credit team to confirm structure and conditions.
- Closing: Finalize diligence, legal, and funding with transparent steps.
Related programs
- CDC/504 for owner-occupied real estate and major equipment with long-term, fixed-rate second liens.
- MCA to SBA transition to stabilize cash flow before pursuing SBA eligibility.
- Private real estate loans for bridge or hybrid structures prior to SBA takeout.
- Equipment financing to complement an SBA request or address timing needs.
Quick checklist
- ✔ Two to three years financials and returns
- ✔ Year-to-date financials and bank statements
- ✔ Business summary and management bios
- ✔ Purchase agreement or project plan, if applicable
- ✔ Use of funds and assumptions
Advantages of private non-bank SBA
- Speed: Streamlined review and responsive underwriting.
- Access: Experienced SBA teams with direct communication.
- Flexibility: Practical structures sized to the plan.