All businesses start with a great idea, but a business needs the right funding to truly launch a business venture. However, obtaining the right kind of funding is an obstacle in itself for many small business owners. Some of the more popular funding options for entrepreneurs include:
- Self-Financing
- Friends and Family
- Credit Cards
- Bank Loans
- Business/trade credit
- Venture capitalists and angel investors
Another alternative form of funding is the Small Business Administration (SBA) loan program. The SBA offers several types of loans including the SBA 7(a) Loan, the SBA 504 Loan, and the MicroLoan Program.
SBA 7(a) Loan. The 7(a) loan is the SBA’s most common loan program. This loan is for both start-ups and existing businesses who use the money to finance purchase of real estate, equipment, furniture, inventory, cover accounts payable, and other short-term working capital needs. The loan amount can be up to $2 million. The length of the loan is up to 25 years maximum for real estate or seven years maximum for working capital.
SBA 504 Loan. The 504 term loan finances long-term fixed assets and is a zero subsidy program. Additionally, this loan typically is applied toward investments in real estate assets and machinery. The loan amount can be up to $1 million for general purposes or up to $1.3 million for public policy goals. The length of the loan is 10 to 20 years.
MicroLoan Program. This loan is specifically for start-ups that couldn’t obtain other means of funding due to poor credit and lack of assets. The MicroLoan typically goes to small businesses with five employees or fewer. The loan amount can be up to $35,000 and the length of the loan is a maximum of six years.
If you are a member of Spiegel & Utrera, P.A.’s General Counsel Club and have business related questions, call (800) 734-9900 or clubassist@amerilawyer.com for assistance. Remember, as a member of the General Counsel Club, you receive unlimited legal, business, credit and tax advice all year long.
Spiegel & Utrera, P.A. is a corporate law firm with its main offices located in Miami, Florida with offices throughout the United States. As a law firm, we do more than just help you form your business entity. We stand ready to help with the maintenance of your legal business entity! We will assist you with Incorporation Service, Trademarks,Copyrights, Estate Planning, Legal Counsel, Wills, Trusts, Agreements & Leases, Corporate & Company