SBA loan basics
Short answer
The SBA Table of Size Standards is a detailed list that defines what qualifies as a 'small business' for eligibility purposes, based on industry-specific revenue or employee limits.
Each industry (identified by a NAICS code) has a specific size standard, either a maximum average annual receipts amount or a maximum number of employees. Businesses exceeding these thresholds are generally not eligible for SBA loans.
A software development company checks the SBA Table of Size Standards for its NAICS code (e.g., 541511). If the standard is $34 million in average annual receipts, and their business has $30 million, they qualify as small.
Insider move
Lenders must accurately determine the primary NAICS code for the business and verify its compliance with the corresponding size standard. This is a fundamental eligibility check.
SBA Table of Size Standards
13 CFR Part 121 - Small Business Size Regulations
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
Last checked 2026-06-13. 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 eligibility & size
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