What 18+ Years of SBA Lending Has Taught Me About Successful Small Businesses

For nearly two decades, I have dedicated my career to one thing: helping small business owners access the capital they need to grow. SBA lending is not just what I do, it’s what I have chosen to do. But my perspective on small business financing did not come only from my career.

It also came from home.

My husband, my father, and my sister are all business owners, and over the years I have seen firsthand the decisions entrepreneurs face, when to grow, when to take on debt, and when to wait. Watching those choices play out in real life is what ultimately led me to pivot into SBA lending. I wanted to help business owners navigate financing decisions with clarity, confidence, and a long-term view.

That combination of professional experience, personal understanding, and deep familiarity with the Indiana market has shaped how I approach SBA lending and what I have learned about successful small businesses.

1. Successful small businesses plan for SBA financing early

In FY 2025, Centier approved 46 traditional SBA 7(a) loans which provided a little over $11 million directly to entrepreneurs that they used to start, grow and expand their Indiana-Based Companies [1]. 

Successful SBA borrowers plan months ahead and view financing as a strategic part of growing their business—not just a response to pressure or timing. And while planning early makes a meaningful difference, we’re here to support you at every stage of your business journey.

2. The best business owners understand their numbers and their story

Strong financials are essential in SBA lending, but clarity matters just as much. The most successful borrowers can explain revenue trends, how seasonality affects cash flow, and what drives changes in expenses or margins.

3. Experience teaches you to balance optimism with realism

Entrepreneurs are naturally optimistic, and they should be. But after nearly two decades in SBA lending, I have learned that the most successful business owners also plan for uncertainty.

They ask what happens if growth takes longer than expected, how the loan will perform under different economic conditions, and whether the structure still works if costs increase.

That realistic approach results in stronger, more sustainable SBA loans and fewer surprises over time.

4. SBA lending works best when it is relationship driven

One advantage of working with a community bank is the relationship. In Indiana markets, understanding local industries, real estate values, and economic conditions matters.

In fiscal year 2025, SBA loan programs supported more than $880 million in federally backed capital for Indiana small businesses, including approximately $564 million in SBA 7(a) loans and $131 million in SBA 504 loans.[1]

Successful SBA borrowers value a lender who knows their community and stays engaged beyond the loan closing. The strongest outcomes happen when SBA lending is treated as a partnership, not a transaction.

“This isn't just a loan. It's a partnership, and we take that seriously."- Lisa Misch

5. SBA loans are reaching more diverse business owners

National SBA data shows increasing access to capital for historically underserved entrepreneurs. In fiscal year 2024, the SBA backed approximately 15,500 loans totaling $5.6 billion to majority women-owned businesses, 9,600 loans totaling $3.3 billion to Latino-owned businesses, and 5,200 loans totaling $1.5 billion to Black-owned businesses.[2]

These trends reflect the growing role SBA financing plays in supporting a diverse and resilient small business economy.

Final thoughts from an SBA relationship specialist

After 18 years in SBA lending and decades in business banking, one thing is clear. Successful small businesses do not all look the same, but they tend to think the same way.

They plan ahead, understand their numbers, stay realistic, and build strong banking relationships. When SBA loans are paired with experience, local market knowledge, and a true partnership, they can help businesses grow with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About SBA Loans

How do I apply for an SBA loan?

The process starts with a conversation, not a stack of paperwork. You will work directly with an SBA lender who will walk you through the right program for your goals, help you gather the necessary documents, and guide you from application all the way through closing.

How do I qualify for an SBA loan?

To qualify, your business generally needs to be for-profit, operate in the United States, meet SBA size standards for a small business, and have a demonstrated need for financing. Lenders will also look at your credit history, cash flow, time in business, and collateral. SBA loans are specifically designed for businesses that may not qualify for conventional financing alone.

*All loans are subject to credit approval.

Will I need to put up collateral?

SBA loans do often require collateral, but it depends on the loan program and the amount you are requesting. You can discuss your options with your lender.

What is the difference between an SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loan?

The 7(a) is a flexible, all-purpose loan that can be used for a wide range of purposes including working capital, inventory, and refinancing. The 504 program is specifically designed for long-term fixed assets like commercial real estate or large equipment purchases. Your lender can help you determine which or which combination might make the most sense for your goals.

How long does it take to get approved?

Timelines vary based on the complexity of the loan and how prepared you are going in. One of the most important things you can do to speed up the process is to start early and have your financial documents organized before you apply.

What are the requirements for my business to qualify?

The SBA sets the eligibility for loan assistance and information can be found on their website.

What interest rate can I expect on an SBA loan?

Rates can be fixed or variable depending on the program and loan structure. In general, SBA loan rates are competitive, and your lender will walk you through current rate ranges when you begin the process.

About the Author

Lisa Misch is Vice President and SBA Relationship Specialist with more than 30 years of experience in the banking  industry, including 20 years in business banking and 18 years dedicated to SBA underwriting and lending. She works closely with business owners on a wide range of financing needs, including startups, acquisitions, partner buyouts, commercial real estate, expansions, equipment purchases, and debt refinancing.

Lisa brings a unique perspective to SBA lending, shaped not only by her professional experience but also by her personal connection to small business ownership. With deep knowledge of SBA programs and the Indiana market, she partners with entrepreneurs to simplify complex financing decisions and support long-term business growth.

Contact Lisa

Sources

1. U.S. Small Business Administration, Indiana District Office FY 2025 Loan Approvals, October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025
2. U.S. Small Business Administration, FY 2024 National Lending and Demographic Trends

    

   The SBA's participation in this publication is not an endorsement of the views, opinions, products or services of the contractor or any advertiser or other participant appearing herein.