Loan Usage
Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA) Loans
We specialize in ETA financing
Home » Use Cases Parent »
See If You Pre-Qualify for an Entrepreneur Through Acquisition Loan in 3 Minutes
Get the capital you need to fund your business
Fill in your info:
Top 5 SBA franchise loan lender*
+$600 million franchise loans funded
+$2 billion in SBA loans since 2020
+2,000 SBA loans funded since 2020
Entrepreneurs can face capital shortfalls and cash flow strains
Raising sufficient equity from investors can be difficult, particularly for first-time entrepreneurs who may not have an established track record. Valuations can fluctuate, complicating negotiations and raising capital needs. ETA operators often struggle with managing operating costs during the initial phases of business ownership, especially if the acquired business underperforms. Additionally, securing favorable debt terms can be challenging, and unforeseen operational expenses can impact cash flow. However, if you can overcome the challenges, ETA loans provide aspiring entrepreneurs the opportunity to acquire and grow established businesses with investor support.
ETA loans provide a low-risk path to acquiring established businesses with mentorship from investors
ETA loans are experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing interest from young entrepreneurs and the support of seasoned investors. The model, originally developed at Stanford Business School, has gained traction worldwide, particularly in the United States. ETA loans offer aspiring business owners a clear pathway to ownership by acquiring established companies with proven track records, making it a less risky alternative to traditional startups.
The growing popularity of this model is also fueled by a demographic shift, as baby boomer entrepreneurs reach retirement age, creating more opportunities for acquisitions. Business school graduates are increasingly drawn to the ETA model due to its blend of entrepreneurial opportunity and the guidance provided by experienced investors, leading to a steady rise in the number of ETA operators.
The SBA loan program, particularly the 7a loan, is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs seeking to finance acquisitions. With loan amounts up to $5 million, the 7a program helps entrepreneurs acquire established companies by offering long-term, low-interest financing. The flexibility of these loans allows for financing a variety of business needs, including working capital, equipment purchases, and real estate. First Bank of the Lake, with its expertise in SBA lending, provides tailored support for entrepreneurs navigating the ETA loan process. Their experience and connections help self-funded entrepreneurs access capital to acquire a business and get you and your loan to the finish line.
Real business owners. Real results.
Woof Gang Bakery SBA Loan Case Study
After years in HR, Kasia followed her passion for animals and, with a $345K SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake, quickly launched her Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming franchise — already nearing breakeven just months in.
Tint World SBA Loan Case Study
After losing his wife, a friend, and his life savings, Dan Billings reinvented his life with a Tint World franchise — and with guidance and an SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake, his business is thriving and he’s already eyeing a second location.
Lifetime Green Coatings SBA Loan Case Study
Father and son duo Barry and Parker Norfleet launched six Lifetime Green Coatings franchises with a $400K SBA loan from First Bank of the Lake — quickly setting up operations and nearly breaking even within just three months.
What Our Customers Say
Gave Me the Confidence I Needed
Huge thanks to Tammy and Brandi. Tammy was my first point of contact and gave me the confidence I needed since there isn't a local branch near where I live. Brandi has been answering ALL my questions since and has excellent follow up and has taken great care of me.
— Michele Houston
Genuinely Interested in Helping My Business Succeed
First Bank of the Lake was a tremendous help in securing a 504 small business loan for my company. Every staff member I interacted with was professional, friendly, and genuinely interested in helping my business succeed.
— Don Kamb
Exceptional Service
I cannot say enough positive things about my experience working with Eric as my SBA loan officer. From start to finish, he provided exceptional service and went above and beyond to ensure that every issue we encountered was resolved quickly and efficiently.
— Bryan Crowe