SBA loan basics
Short answer
A 'small business' for SBA 7(a) loan purposes is defined by specific size standards, which vary by industry and are based on factors like annual revenue or number of employees.
The SBA uses a 'Table of Size Standards' that lists maximum annual receipts (revenue) or maximum number of employees for various industries (NAICS codes). To be eligible, your business must not exceed these thresholds for its primary industry.
A general contractor might be considered 'small' if its annual revenue is under $39.5 million. A retail shoe store might be considered 'small' if its annual revenue is under $13 million. These thresholds are specific to the business's industry.
Insider move
Lenders must verify the applicant's primary industry and ensure they meet the corresponding SBA size standard. This involves reviewing financial statements and employee records.
7(a) Loan Program — Terms, Conditions, and Eligibility
U.S. Small Business Administration · Official SBA source
SBA Table of Size Standards
13 CFR Part 121 - Small Business Size Regulations
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
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 eligibility & size
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