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SBA Loan Programs

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Find the right loan

for your business

Flexible Financing Options for Small Businesses

Cathay Bank offers Small Business Administration (SBA) loan programs designed to help small businesses access financing for growth, expansion and long-term investment.

Whether you need working capital, financing for commercial real estate, or funding for equipment, SBA-backed loans may offer flexible options to support your business goals.

Explore the SBA Loan Program, compare loan types and understand eligibility to find the right financing solution for your business.

 

SBA Loan Program Overview

The SBA Loan Program helps small businesses access capital through loans issued by participating lenders and backed in part by the Small Business Administration.

Because the SBA guarantees a portion of the loan, SBA financing may provide more flexibility than some conventional business loans for qualified borrowers.

SBA loans may be used for:

  • Working capital
  • Commercial real estate purchase or improvement
  • Equipment and machinery
  • Business acquisition
  • Refinancing certain business debt

 

SBA Loan Types

Cathay Bank offers SBA financing options designed to support different business goals—from managing cash flow to investing in long-term growth.

SBA 7(a) Loans

A flexible, general-purpose loan designed to support a wide range of business needs

  • Common uses: ;Working capital, expansion, real estate, equipment, acquisitions, refinancing
  • Best for: Businesses that need one loan to support multiple priorities

Learn More About SBA 7(a) Loans

SBA 504 Loans

A structured financing solution for major, long-term investments in your business

  • Common uses: Commercial real estate, facility construction or upgrades, large equipment
  • Best for: Businesses focused on expanding through property or capital assets

Learn More About SBA 504 Loans

SBA Microloans

Smaller funding amounts designed to help businesses get started or manage near-term needs

  • Common uses: Working capital, inventory, supplies, equipment
  • Best for: Startups or businesses with smaller-scale financing needs

 

Compare SBA Loan Options

SBA 7(a)

  • Flexible funding across multiple business needs
  • Issued through participating lenders with SBA backing

SBA 504

  • Designed for real estate and major equipment investments
  • Structured with a lender and a Certified Development Company

SBA Microloans

  • Smaller loan amounts delivered through intermediary lenders
  • Built for accessibility and early-stage growth

 

What Can SBA Loans Support?

SBA loans can support a wide range of business activities, depending on the program you choose. These may include improving cash flow, investing in property or equipment, expanding operations or strengthening your financial position over time.

Not sure which option fits your needs? Cathay Bank can help you evaluate the right path forward.

 

SBA Loan Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility depends on the loan program, SBA guidelines and lender review.

In general, qualified applicants may need to:

  • Operate a for-profit business in the United States
  • Meet SBA size standards
  • Demonstrate the ability to repay
  • Provide business and financial documentation

Lenders may also review:

  • Credit profile
  • Cash flow
  • Business performance
  • Collateral availability
  • Down payment or owner investment

Because every application is different, requirements vary based on the borrower and loan structure.

 

How the SBA Loan Application Process Works

Cathay Bank helps guide business owners through each stage of the SBA loan application process.

1. Initial Conversation

Discuss your business goals and financing needs with a Cathay Bank lender to identify the right SBA loan option. This helps ensure you start with a solution that aligns with your timeline and priorities.

2. Application Preparation

Gather key documents, including financials, tax returns and ownership details, to complete your application. Your lender can guide you on exactly what’s needed to keep the process moving smoothly.

3. Lender Review

Cathay Bank evaluates your application, business performance and ability to repay the loan. We may ask follow up questions or request additional information at this stage.

4. SBA Review Or Authorization

The SBA may review or authorize the loan, depending on the program and structure. Some loans move faster through delegated programs, while others require additional review.

5. Closing And Funding

After final approvals, documents are signed and the loan funds are released. At this point, you’ll have access to the capital needed to support your business.

Timing can vary based on the loan type, documentation and overall complexity of the request.

 

 

SBA Loan

Programs & Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Get in touch with a specialist

Laurence Yeung

SVP & Director of SBA

Jessie Chau

FVP & SBA Underwriting Manager

Joseph Lee

VP & Regional Sales Manager

Cathay Bank

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Get Started With Cathay Bank’s SBA Loan Program

If you’re exploring financing options for your business, Cathay Bank can help you review available SBA loan programs and next steps.