SBA loan basics
Short answer
Yes, an SBA 7(a) loan can be used to cover marketing and advertising expenses. These fall under eligible working capital uses to promote and grow the business.
Marketing and advertising are considered essential operational costs for a business. As such, funds allocated for working capital within an SBA 7(a) loan can be applied to these expenses to help attract customers and increase revenue.
A newly acquired business needs to boost its online presence. A $20,000 portion of its SBA 7(a) working capital is allocated to launch a new website, run social media campaigns, and print promotional materials.
Insider move
Lenders ensure that marketing and advertising expenses are reasonable and directly contribute to the business's success and revenue generation, supporting the ability to repay the loan. They typically review these as part of the business plan's financial projections.
13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans
Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
7(a) Working Capital Pilot Program Guide
SBA 7(a) Loans Overview
Last checked 2026-06-13. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 · SBA sources checked through 2026-06-13. 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 funds
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