Reports
Every two years, Rapoza Associates conducts a survey of SBA Microloan Intermediaries on behalf of the Friends Network, reaching out broadly to the microlender community. In May 2018, 53 intermediaries answered the survey, providing data on their lending activity and experience. These organizations included both intermediaries that are relatively new to the SBA program, as well as those who have been a part of the program since its inception.
Fact Sheet
SBA microlenders provide small loans and technical assistance to businesses that conventional lenders are unable to finance for a variety of reasons, including the lack of sufficient collateral or business experience. In particular, the purpose of the Microloan Program is to assist women, low income, veteran, and minority entrepreneurs, and other small businesses in need of small amounts of financial assistance.
The Friends of the SBA Microloan Program (Friends Network) is an informal working group of nonprofit SBA Microloan Intermediaries. Its members provide small-dollar loans up to $50,000 and business development resources to help women, low-income, veteran, and minority entrepreneurs successfully create and grow sustainable businesses.