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Startup Business Loans
Use an SBA loan to start and grow your new business
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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 face costly challenges when starting a new business
Starting a business is an exciting adventure, but the financial hurdles can be overwhelming. Whether you’re launching a new hip restaurant, funky retail shop, or service-based business, the costs—securing real estate, buying equipment, stocking inventory, can add up fast. And that’s just the beginning, ongoing expenses like payroll, marketing, and utilities continue to pile up, often before you’ve opened your doors.
With 82% of small businesses facing cash flow problems, many entrepreneurs struggle to secure affordable financing. With limited capital, lack of credit history or simple lack of knowledge, many new small businesses don’t know where to turn for financial backing.
Turning financial challenges into your business advantage
If the steep startup costs are making you hesitate, consider an SBA loan to help get things rolling. SBA loans are designed to ease the financial burden for small businesses and allow you to focus on growing your business, not stressing over upfront costs. From securing real estate to stocking inventory, SBA loans offer flexible, affordable options that cover the full range of startup expenses.
SBA 7a loans provide up to $5 million for nearly any business expense—whether it’s securing a location, buying equipment, or covering startup costs. With low down payments and longer repayment terms, they help new business owners manage cash flow and focus on growth, making them a flexible and accessible funding option.
For larger investments like real estate or major equipment, SBA 504 loans offer long-term, fixed-rate financing. This allows you to make big purchases without straining your cash flow, giving you predictable payments and financial room to let your business thrive.
At First Bank of the Lake, we understand the challenges of launching a new business. With over $1.1 billion in SBA loans provided, we’ve helped countless entrepreneurs secure the financing they need to start and grow their businesses. Our team is here to help you navigate the process and find the best loan solution for your startup.
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