SBA 7(a) for Business Acquisition
U.S. Small Business Administration
Eligibility
Vet-owned or qualified buyer acquiring an existing operating business. Same 7(a) product as the general loan, applied to acquisition. Down payment typically 10-15% with seller note participation.
Award
Up to $5M for acquisition; Veterans Advantage fee reduction for vet-owned buyers on loans $150k+
Deadlines
Rolling · Rolling
Notes
Primary financing vehicle for self-funded searchers. Lender Match helps find SBA-preferred lenders experienced with acquisition deals.
Related programs on the Small Business path
These share at least one format type with this program and fit the same path.
SBA 8(a) Business Development Program
U.S. Small Business Administration
Socially and economically disadvantaged small business owners; 9-year program providing mentorship and access to sole-source contracts.
SBA HUBZone Program
U.S. Small Business Administration
Business located in a HUBZone (historically underutilized) area with 35%+ HUBZone employees.
SDVOSB Certification (VetCert)
SBA Office of Veterans Business Development
Service-disabled veteran (10%+ rating) with 51%+ ownership and control of the business. Self-certification ended in 2026 — SBA VetCert is now the only path.