Unlock the lowest available rates and longest repayment terms in business lending. Upstart Advance guides you through the entire SBA process so you can focus on what matters — growing your business.
SBA loans are partially guaranteed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, which reduces lender risk and allows them to offer significantly lower interest rates and longer repayment terms than conventional business loans. For established businesses seeking affordable, long-term capital, they represent the most powerful financing tool available.
At Upstart Advance, we specialize in navigating the SBA process end-to-end. From identifying the right program for your business to preparing your application, managing lender communications, and accelerating your approval — we handle every step so you don't have to.
Whether you're acquiring commercial real estate, purchasing equipment, expanding your operations, or accessing working capital, an SBA loan delivers the stability and flexibility to make it happen on favorable terms.
The two primary SBA loan programs serve different purposes. Your Upstart Advance advisor will identify which program best fits your situation.
The SBA 7(a) is the most widely used government-backed loan program. It offers maximum flexibility — the proceeds can be used for almost any legitimate business purpose, making it the go-to choice for most businesses seeking long-term, affordable capital.
The SBA 504 program is designed specifically for businesses purchasing major fixed assets — commercial real estate or large equipment. It pairs a conventional lender loan with a Certified Development Company (CDC) loan, creating exceptional long-term terms for large purchases.
Because the SBA guarantees a portion of the loan, lenders can offer rates significantly below conventional business loan rates — often prime + 2.25% to 2.75%.
Repayment terms stretch up to 30 years for real estate — dramatically lowering your monthly payment and freeing up cash flow for growth.
SBA loans typically require only 10–20% down, compared to 25–35% for most conventional commercial loans — preserving your working capital.
The SBA guarantee unlocks loan amounts that many businesses couldn't qualify for on their own through conventional lenders — up to $5 million or more.
Both you and your lender benefit from the SBA's guarantee structure, creating a more stable, trustworthy financing arrangement for all parties.
With low rates and long terms, SBA loans are perfectly suited to major growth initiatives — real estate, expansion, acquisitions, or equipment upgrades.
We manage the entire SBA process on your behalf — from the first conversation to the day funds hit your account.
We review your business profile and determine which SBA program is the right fit — no paperwork required to start.
Your advisor prepares and organizes your full application package, ensuring it meets all SBA and lender requirements.
We submit your application to our network of preferred SBA lenders and negotiate on your behalf for the best possible terms.
Once approved, we guide you through closing. Funds are deposited directly to your business account and you're ready to grow.
Most SBA lenders require a personal credit score of 640 or higher, though 680+ improves your chances of approval and better rates. Your business credit profile, revenue history, and time in business are also weighed heavily. Our advisors work with you to present the strongest possible application even if your score is on the lower end.
SBA loans typically take 2–6 weeks from application to funding, depending on the program and lender. SBA Express loans can close in as little as 36 hours for smaller amounts. Our advisors accelerate every step of the process and have relationships with preferred lenders who prioritize our applications.
Most SBA lenders require at least 2 years in business, along with tax returns demonstrating revenue during that period. Some programs have more flexibility. If your business is newer, our team can advise on alternative financing options in the meantime.
A typical SBA application requires 2 years of business and personal tax returns, 3–6 months of business bank statements, a personal financial statement, business financial statements (P&L, balance sheet), and a business plan or use of funds statement. Your Upstart Advance advisor will give you a precise checklist based on your specific loan type.
Speak with an advisor today and find out which SBA program is right for your business — no hard credit pull, no obligation.