All funding
LoanRolling
U.S. Small Business Administration (through a bank or lender)
7(a) loan
The SBA's main loan program, made through banks and other lenders. For-profit businesses only.
- Amount
- Up to $5 million (SBA maximum)
- Can a for-profit school apply?
- Yes, a for-profit school can apply
- Deadline
- Rolling
- Who this fits
- Microschool · Private school · Homeschool co‑opFor-profit only: a for-profit microschool, private school or co-op business. Nonprofit and church schools are ineligible.
- New schools
- Not stated for new schools
- Where
- National
- Last checked
- Oct 1, 2026on sba.gov
How to apply
- Step 1: Ask your bank, or use SBA Lender Match, about a 7(a) loan
- Step 2: Prepare a business plan and financial statements
- Step 3: Expect a personal guarantee if you own 20% or more
Funders change their requirements. Check the official page before you apply. Getting ready? See what funders usually ask for.
Who can apply
“To be eligible for 7(a) loan assistance, businesses must: Be an operating business Operate for profit Be located in the U.S. Be small under SBA size requirements Not be a type of ineligible business”
Nonprofits are ineligible by regulation (13 CFR 120.110). Owners of 20% or more generally must personally guarantee the loan (13 CFR 120.160).
- Operate for profit
- Owners with 20%+ generally must personally guarantee (13 CFR 120.160)
- Apply through an SBA lender
Timing
Rolling.