SBA loan basics
Short answer
To be considered 'small,' your business must meet specific size standards set by the SBA, which are based on either annual revenue or number of employees, depending on your industry.
The SBA defines 'small' based on size standards found in 13 CFR Part 121 and the Table of Size Standards. These standards vary significantly by industry (NAICS code). Businesses must also meet other general eligibility requirements, such as operating for profit and being independently owned and operated.
A plumbing company might be considered small if its average annual receipts are under $8 million, while a manufacturing company might be considered small if it has fewer than 500 employees. The specific threshold depends on the company's primary industry code.
13 CFR Part 121 - Small Business Size Regulations
SBA Table of Size Standards
SOP 50 10 - Lender and Development Company Loan Programs
Affiliation and Lending Criteria for SBA Business Loan Programs - Final Rule
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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