SBA loan basics
Short answer
Yes, a major use of the SBA 7(a) loan program is to finance the acquisition of an existing business. This often includes the purchase of business assets, goodwill, and sometimes real estate.
The 7(a) program is specifically designed to facilitate business acquisitions, allowing entrepreneurs to purchase existing profitable operations. Funds can cover the purchase price of assets, inventory, and working capital needs post-acquisition. A business valuation is often required to justify the purchase price.
Sarah wants to buy a local printing shop for $800,000. She can use an SBA 7(a) loan to finance the majority of the purchase price, including the equipment, client list, and goodwill, while providing a portion as her equity injection.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
7(a) Loan Program — Terms, Conditions, and Eligibility
U.S. Small Business Administration · Official SBA source
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
SBA 7(a) Loans Overview
Last checked 2026-06-14. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-14. DealRoom analysis of public SBA 7(a) lending records (FY2020–present). Grounded in the current SBA rulebook; verify against the official sources above before relying on it for a live deal. Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision.
More on use of proceeds
Terms in this answer
Pre-qualify your SBA 7(a) deal
Tell us the business, the price, and where you are — we'll point you to the lenders most likely to fund a deal like yours and flag anything that trips up approval.
Free · No documents · Usually same-day