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Private School Business Loans
Use an SBA loan to start and grow your private school 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
Managing private school finances can feel like solving ever-changing equations
Private educational businesses centered on child-focused learning contend with intense enrollment competition from public schools. Unlike their public counterparts, they primarily depend on tuition fees, which leaves them vulnerable during economic downturns or periods of decreased enrollment.
Rising operational costs—like teacher salaries, facility upkeep, and expansion—can force these schools to consider tuition hikes, potentially deterring prospective families. They also face stiff competition from well-funded public options and a growing array of online platforms. As parents seek innovative teaching methods, schools are compelled to invest in technology and resources, which can further tighten budgets.
However, it’s not all bad news: many alternative learning programs are experiencing a rise in enrollment as parents explore diverse educational options for their children.
Creative strategies and innovation solve financial strain
Private schools and education businesses face financial challenges that can be overwhelming. Unlike public institutions, which are backed by government funding, private education businesses rely primarily on tuition. When economic downturns hit, enrollments can drop, with tuition hikes to offset costs.
But there is hope on the horizon as private and alternative education enrollment is on the rise. Parents are demanding more innovative and tech-savvy learning environments and are seeking more unique learning environments for education. This is where educational businesses can outshine their more traditional peers.
To ease the financial strain of necessary upgrades, consider financing options like the SBA 7a and 504 loans. These loans can help schools acquire essential equipment, refinance debt, or expand facilities. The SBA 7a loan offers flexible uses for working capital, while the 504 loan focuses on long-term investments in real estate and large assets.
At First Bank of the Lake, we’ve funded over $1.1 billion in SBA loans to small businesses, including many educational businesses. Our team understands your unique needs and can tailor solutions to help you manage rising costs, hire skilled staff, and ensure long-term success.
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