According to the most recent data from the Federal Reserve, the average loan size from U.S. commercial banks to small businesses is $663,000.However, the amount of funding you're eligible to receive depends on several factors.
Typical understanding Small Business Loans Knowing the amount will help you determine the right financing option for your needs. Here's what you need to know:
What is the typical loan amount for a small business?

Major national banks$593,000

Small regional banks$146,000

SBA Lending Institutions$107,000

Alternative Lenders$25,000 to $100,000
Average small business loan amounts by lender
Bank loans for small businesses are traditionally hard to get — you need good credit, strong financials, and years of business history — but those who qualify have a good chance of getting a loan. Low interest ratesThe repayment period is long and the loan amount is large.
According to Federal Reserve data, banks offer the largest average business loan amounts, followed by SBA lenders, and alternative lenders often offer more flexible loan amounts. Eligibility Requirements They have the lowest average loan amounts compared to banks and SBA lenders.
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Foreign Banks (U.S. Branches) |
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To better understand the unique needs of your business, we'll begin by completing a short survey.
Once you find your perfect match, our team will be happy to guide you through the next steps of the process.
Average small business loan amounts by SBA lending institution
SBA Loans Partially guaranteed by the American Business Administration and issued by participating financial institutions (usually banks or credit unions), these loans offer competitive interest rates, long repayment terms, and are a little easier to qualify for than bank loans.
Generally, to get an SBA loan, you need good credit, a multi-year business history, and a strong financial standing. The average SBA loan from all banks is $107,000, but smaller banks tend to issue larger loan amounts, according to Federal Reserve data.
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Average small business loan amounts by alternative lending institution
nevertheless Online Business Lenders Although the average loan amounts tend to be lower than with traditional lenders, these alternative options have grown in popularity in recent years. Online lenders usually have more flexible qualifications and some even work with new businesses or those with poor credit.
These companies also offer multiple types of loan products and have a variety of alternative lenders to choose from.
Below we have detailed some of the well-known online lenders and the range of loans they offer.
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American Express® Business Line of Credit |
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The important thing to remember is, Alternative Lenders A high maximum loan limit doesn't necessarily mean you'll get the maximum loan available.
Generally, the better your business qualifications are, such as your business history, personal credit score, and annual revenue, the more likely you are to receive a larger loan amount, a lower interest rate, and a longer repayment period.
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Average loan amount for small and medium-sized enterprises by type of loan
When trying to find the right business financing, you’ll need to consider different loan options in addition to lenders.
Several Types of Small Business LoansLoans such as SBA 7(a) loans and medium-term loans are suitable for larger investments and large loan amounts. Other types of loans, such as short-term loans and invoice financing, are suitable for smaller projects and working capital needs.
Below are estimates of typical small business loan amounts, depending on the type of funding.
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Up to 100% of the equipment's value. |
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Up to 90% of the amount of the unpaid invoice. |
How to Find the Right Small Business Loan
When you are looking for business financing, you need to explore and compare multiple options. Here are some things to consider:
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How quickly do you need the funds?
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How much capital do you need?
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Your business qualifications.
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The total cost of potential liabilities.
If you need a larger small business loan, National Bank and SBA 7(a) loan lenders. To qualify, however, you’ll likely need multiple years of business experience, strong credit, and solid business financials.
Among alternative lenders are: Larger loan amounts — if you have good qualifications — but these loans are usually more expensive than traditional loan options. For a small business loan, consider a local bank, an SBA lender, or an online lender, depending on your qualifications and how quickly you need the funds.
Compare business loan options
The best business loans are generally the ones with the lowest interest rates and the most ideal terms. But other factors, like how long it will take to get funding and the eligibility of your business, also help determine which option you should choose. NerdWallet Recommends Comparison of small business loans Find what works best for your business.