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Use an SBA loan to start and grow your new business
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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.
The Numbers
in Loans 2024
Largest SBA Lender^
Small Businesses Helped 2020-2024
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The First Bank of the Lake rep and I bonded over faith, fishing and finance. They got my loan done in under 30 days in very, very trying circumstances.
Issac Reed
President, Reed’s Moving Services
If we ever need business capital, my first call would be to First Bank of the Lake. Why would I look elsewhere?
Barry Norfleet
Co-founder, Lifetime Green Coatings - Kentucky
I got my $345,000 SBA loan approved from First Bank of the Lake in 35 days!
Kasia Anderson
President, Woof Gang Bakery - Bradenton, FL
First Bank of the Lake was the best banking experience I have ever had.
Andy
Co-founder, President, Winter Park Ski Rental
The bank process was as easy it could be. The biggest thing is how transparent and reliable they were.
Tyler Green
Co-founder, President, Freelite AZ
My First Bank of the Lake rep was great – Easily the finest banker I have dealt with in my life.
Dan Billings
President, Tint World - San Antonio
Big thanks to Emil and the First Bank of the Lake team. I would recommend them to anyone else in a heartbeat and I would absolutely use them again.
Rock Katic
President, Perfect Moving
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We made $600MM in SBA loans in the last year alone
