Small Business Resources, Business Advice and Forms from AllBusiness.com

Applying for an SBA Loan

When applying for a loan, you must prepare a written loan proposal. Make your best presentation in the initial loan proposal and application; you may not get a second opportunity.

Always

begin your proposal with a cover letter or executive summary. Clearly and briefly explain who you are, your business background, the nature of your business, the amount and purpose of your loan request, your requested terms of repayment, how the funds will benefit your business, and how you will repay the loan. Keep this cover page simple and direct.

Many different loan proposal formats are possible. You may want to contact your commercial lender to determine which format is best for you. When writing your proposal, don't assume the reader is familiar with your industry or your individual business. Always include industry-specific details so your reader can understand how your particular business is run and what industry trends affect it.

Description of Business:

Finance: Raising Capital with Multiple Investors
Host Hattie Bryant of Small Business School interviews famed chef Thomas Keller of the French Laundry restaurant in Yountville, California.