SBA Franchise Loans in Florida
2026 lenders, rates, and how to apply
Florida SBA-approved lenders issued 9,875 SBA 7(a) loans in 2025, averaging $365,000 per loan. About 17.0% of those went to franchise businesses, with franchise loans averaging $440,000.
Top SBA Franchise Lenders in Florida
Live Oak Bank
Highest SBA 7(a) franchise loan volume in Florida
Centennial Bank
Second-highest SBA franchise volume
National franchise lenders (Live Oak Bank, Guidant Financial, ApplePie Capital) also serve Florida. Compare at least 3 lenders before signing.
SBA Loan Payment Estimator
Estimate only. Actual rates and terms depend on credit, collateral, and lender. SBA guarantee fee (0.25-3.75%) not included.
How to Get an SBA Franchise Loan in Florida
Confirm your franchise is SBA-approved
Check the SBA Franchise Directory at sba.gov. If your brand isn't listed, your lender will need to submit the FDD for SBA review (adds 2-4 weeks).
Build your business plan
Florida has 32 SBDC locations and 18 SCORE chapters that offer free business plan help. Include 3-year projections and use FDD Item 19 data if available.
Compare lenders
Start with Live Oak Bank (highest SBA franchise volume in Florida). Compare at least 2-3 SBA-approved lenders. Rates, closing speed, and franchise experience vary a lot.
Apply and close
SBA 7(a) loan processing takes 30-90 days. Have your equity injection ready. Expect the lender to verify your personal credit, tax returns (2-3 years), and the franchise agreement.
Florida SBA District Offices — Visit SBA.gov office page
SBA Franchise Loans in Other States
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