SBA Export loans are designed to help American small businesses expand their export activities, engage in international transactions, and enter new foreign markets. They’re best for businesses engaging in international business and those that want to grow their business in those areas. There is no limit to the amount you can borrow with an SBA Export loan and the rates typically fall in the 8 – 10% range. There are three different types of SBA Export loans: Export Working Capital, Export Express and International Trade.
SBA Export Loans at a Glance:
| Interest Rates: | SBA Export Working Capital Loan: Rates monitored for reasonableness) SBA Export Express Loan: 8 – 10% International Trade Loan: 5.75 – 8.25% |
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Loan Amounts: |
Up to $5 million |
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Repayment Terms: |
SBA Export Working Capital Loan: Up to 7 years |
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Minimum Requirements: |
660+Credit |
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Use of Loan Proceeds: |
To develop or expand small business exporting |
SBA Export Loan Fees:
- Origination Fee: 0.5 – 3.5%
- Loan Packaging Fee: $2k – $4k
- SBA Guarantee Fee: 3 – 3.5% (Waived if loan amount is under $150k.)
- Consulting fees (case-by-case)
SBA Export Working Capital loans do not have a restricted interest rate. In theory this means the rate could be very high, but in practice the rates are usually in the range of 6-10%. The SBA reviews each proposed loan and must deem the rate “reasonable.” The term for these loans is often under 12 months, but can be for as long as 3 years.
SBA International Trade Loans have rates between 6.75% and 9.25%, which are the same rates as SBA 7(a) loans, and the terms can be up to 25 years.
SBA Export Loan Requirements:
Qualifications for an SBA Export Loan closely resemble the requirements for an SBA 7(a) loan with a few variations based on which SBA Export loan you get. In general, you’ll need:
- Credit Score: 660+ Collateral: Short term collateral like invoices or project contracts
- Personal Guarantee:20%+ Guaranteed by owners
- Other Requirements: No recent bankruptcies, foreclosures, or tax liens
In addition, Export Express Loans require businesses to be at least one year old and export products overseas. You don’t necessarily have to have a year’s history in exporting so long as your principles can show significant experience exporting.
The SBA International Trade Loan Program requires you to show that you can develop new foreign markets, expand existing foreign markets, and/or that your small business was adversely affected by imports and that the loan will increase your competitiveness.