SBA loan basics
Short answer
Yes, an SBA 7(a) loan can be used to purchase intellectual property, provided it is integral to the business operation or acquisition. Funds can cover the cost of patents, copyrights, trademarks, and goodwill.
SBA loan proceeds can be used for a variety of legitimate business purposes, including acquiring intangible assets that are essential to the business. The purchase price, including any intellectual property, must be deemed reasonable by the lender and, for larger loans, often requires an independent valuation.
A tech startup wants to acquire a competitor's patent portfolio for $750,000 to enhance its product line. An SBA 7(a) loan can finance this acquisition, provided the patent valuation is justified and the business demonstrates repayment ability.
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 2026-06-13. 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
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