SBA loan basics
Short answer
Your business must meet the SBA's definition of a "small business" to qualify for an SBA 7(a) loan. This is determined by specific size standards based on your industry, either by revenue or employee count.
The SBA defines "small business" based on the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes. For each industry, there's either a maximum number of employees or a maximum average annual revenue limit. Your business, including any affiliates, must fall within these limits.
If your business is in an industry with a size standard of "500 employees," and your company, along with any affiliated businesses, has 450 employees, you would meet the size requirement. However, if your business has 550 employees, it would be too large.
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
13 CFR Part 121 - Small Business Size Regulations
SBA Table of Size Standards
Affiliation and Lending Criteria for SBA Business Loan Programs - Final Rule
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.
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