How do I get an SBA loan for a franchise in Missouri?

Apply through an SBA-approved lender in Missouri. Enterprise Bank & Trust is the top SBA franchise lender in the state. Missouri processed 2,680 SBA 7(a) loans in 2025, averaging $325,000 per loan. Start with a free consultation at your local SBA district office or a local SCORE chapter for help with your business plan.

What credit score do I need for an SBA franchise loan in Missouri?

Most SBA-approved lenders in Missouri want a 680+ FICO score. Some lenders work with scores as low as 650 if you have strong collateral or relevant franchise industry experience. Below 650, consider building credit for 6-12 months before applying. Your personal credit history matters more than a business credit score for a new franchise purchase.

Are there franchise-specific lenders in Missouri?

Yes. Enterprise Bank & Trust leads SBA franchise lending volume in Missouri. National franchise lenders like Live Oak Bank, Guidant Financial, and ApplePie Capital also serve Missouri borrowers. Franchise-specific lenders understand FDD financials and often close faster than general SBA lenders. Contact the Missouri SBA district office for a current list of preferred lenders.

SBA Franchise Loans in Missouri

2026 lenders, rates, and how to apply

Missouri SBA-approved lenders issued 2,680 SBA 7(a) loans in 2025, averaging $325,000 per loan. About 13.0% of those went to franchise businesses, with franchise loans averaging $395,000.

2,680

SBA 7(a) loans (2025)

$325,000

Average loan amount

13.0%

Franchise share of SBA

$395,000

Avg franchise loan

Top SBA Franchise Lenders in Missouri

Enterprise Bank & Trust

Highest SBA 7(a) franchise loan volume in Missouri

Commerce Bank

Second-highest SBA franchise volume

National franchise lenders (Live Oak Bank, Guidant Financial, ApplePie Capital) also serve Missouri. Compare at least 3 lenders before signing.

SBA Loan Payment Estimator

Loan amount

Interest rate (%)

Term (years)

Down payment (%)

$2,571

Monthly payment

Total interest

Down payment due

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 Missouri

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

Missouri has 14 SBDC locations and 7 SCORE chapters that offer free business plan help. Include 3-year projections and use FDD Item 19 data if available.

Compare lenders

Start with Enterprise Bank & Trust (highest SBA franchise volume in Missouri). 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.

Missouri SBA District Offices — Visit SBA.gov office page

SBA Franchise Loans in Other States

Georgia Idaho Maine Oklahoma South Carolina Tennessee Vermont West Virginia

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