SBA loans
SBA loans are government-guaranteed financing products administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration and funded by participating lenders. The guarantee reduces lender risk, which often translates to lower down payments, longer terms, and more forgiving underwriting than conventional commercial credit. The two main programs are the 7(a) loan, which covers most general business purposes, and the 504 loan, designed specifically for owner-occupied real estate and heavy equipment. Both require the business to operate for profit, meet SBA size standards, and demonstrate reasonable ability to repay.
SBA loans
Qualification hinges on creditworthiness, industry, time in business, and collateral. Lenders typically want a personal credit score above 680, at least two years of operating history, and a debt-service-coverage ratio that shows cash flow exceeds obligations by a comfortable margin. Startups can qualify under certain 7(a) pathways if the principals bring relevant industry experience and inject meaningful equity. Businesses in Newburgh's retail corridor, McCutchanville's industrial parks, and downtown Evansville's mixed-use blocks all fall within serviceable geographies, provided the use of proceeds aligns with SBA guidelines and the operator is not primarily engaged in speculative real estate or passive income.
SBA 7(a) loans fund acquisitions, tenant improvements, inventory builds, debt consolidation, and franchise purchases. Commercial real estate loans often pair with 504 financing when the project includes significant fixed-asset investment. Equipment financing under the 7(a) umbrella can stretch terms to match the useful life of machinery. Working capital lines are available but less common than term products. The broker's role is to assemble financials, write the narrative, and present the package to lenders whose appetite matches the risk profile, a step that materially affects approval odds before the first underwriter opens the file.
How it works
Start with a consultation at our office at 401 SE 6th St, Evansville, IN 47713, or call (812) 570-9945. We gather three years of business tax returns, year-to-date profit-and-loss statements, a current balance sheet, personal financial statements for all owners holding 20 percent or more, and a brief narrative explaining use of proceeds. We then route the application to lenders active in the Evansville market, monitor milestones, and coordinate third-party reports. The SBA itself does not fund loans; approved lenders do, and broker relationships often unlock programs not advertised on bank websites. For a full list of service areas, visit our Service Areas page.
Related programs
Serving the Evansville area

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