How it Works
At Gulf Coast Bank, we understand that running your small business is a full-time job. That’s why we make it easy for you to apply for SBA Loans.
We are an SBA Preferred Lender, which means our loan decisions are made in-house, saving you time and hassle.
Our team has years of experience successfully starting and growing businesses and we work continuously to stay up to date on the latest industry developments and loan products.
We are ready to answer your questions and help you achieve your goals.
See our SBA Loan Guide below
Before you Begin
Not all businesses are eligible for an SBA loan.
SBA Loan Guide
Step 1: Contact us
Contact our lending team by calling the Gulf Coast Bank Call Center, 337-893-7733, calling one of our Loan Specialists directly, or by completing and submitting this form. Our Loan Specialists will reach out to you for more information.
Step 2: Eligibility
Our Loan Specialists will determine your loan eligibility, based on SBA’s guidelines, as they gather all necessary information for the application process.
Step 3: Application and Approval
Once your SBA Loan eligibility is confirmed, your application will be presented to Gulf Coast Bank’s Lending Committee for review, typically a 1–5-day process. If the committee approves your loan, your Loan Specialist will create a commitment letter, outlining the terms of the committee’s approval. Once all parties approve the terms, the loan application can be sent to the SBA for final approval.
Step 4: Funding
The SBA typically takes 2-4 weeks to review submitted loan applications. Once approved by the SBA, loans are typically funded within 30-45 days.
Our Loan Specialists will be there to answer your questions, address your concerns, and offer their professional advice throughout this entire process. From start to finish, we are here to assist you every step of the way!
Important Information
An SBA loan is for you if you have:
- Acceptable credit history
- A promising business venture
- A proven history of ability and expertise in this line of business
Your application will probably qualify if it is:
- The purchase or recapitalization of an existing business.
- The purchase or start-up of a recognized national franchise with a good history of profit and success including fast food restaurants, small motels and hotels and other nationally advertised franchised businesses.
Loan Amount:
Government guaranteed loans on businesses range up to $5,000,000. Some require considerable real estate as additional collateral. We also consider USDA B&I loans, (United States Department of Agriculture Business and Industry). The total amount of agency loans to one borrower must not exceed $10,000,000. Exceptions are made under certain circumstances.
Equity Requirements:
Equity requirements may vary. Your equity injection (down payment) could range from 0% – 30% cash or business net worth. This could be the net worth in your business. A start-up business may require more cash equity.
Loan Purpose:
Businesses may obtain an SBA loan to do the following:
- Construct, expand, or convert facilities
- Purchase buildings, equipment or material
- Obtain working capital