Where veterans can get a business loan
The VA does not make small business loans, so veterans borrow through SBA-backed lenders and other regular sources. In 2026, start with a free Veterans Business Outreach Center, then compare SBA 7(a) and SBA Express loans through a lender, SBA microloans, CDFIs and credit unions. Ask about veteran fee relief, and keep your plan and records ready.
The short version
- The VA does not make business loans.
- Start with free help at a Veterans Business Outreach Center.
- Compare SBA 7(a), SBA Express, SBA microloans, CDFIs and credit unions.
- Ask the lender about fee relief for eligible veteran-owned businesses.
The VA does not make business loans
SBA does not usually lend money itself. It guarantees loans made by approved lenders. The main exception is SBA's direct disaster loans. On the VA side, the Veteran Readiness and Employment program has a self-employment track for eligible service-disabled veterans. It is a support program, not a loan.
Step 1: Get free help first
On its veterans page, SBA says: "The Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) program offers resources to veterans, service members, and military spouses who are interested in starting or growing a small business."
Find a VBOC through SBA's resource partners page. You can also take SBA's Boots to Business course or look at its veteran entrepreneurship training programs.
Step 2: Get your file ready
Gather these before you apply:
- A short business plan
- Recent business and personal tax returns
- Business bank statements
- A simple profit and loss statement
- Proof of service, such as a DD-214, if a lender asks for veteran status
See the full list in what documents you need for a business loan, and start building business credit early.
Step 3: Compare where to apply
| Option | Who it fits | Learn more |
|---|---|---|
| SBA 7(a) loan through a lender | Established businesses with steady income | How to qualify for an SBA loan and SBA 7(a) loans |
| SBA Express loan through a lender | Owners who want a faster SBA process | Ask the lender about veteran fee relief |
| SBA microloan through a nonprofit lender | Newer or smaller businesses | How to get an SBA microloan |
| CDFI loan | Owners banks may turn down | CDFI business loans |
| Credit union or bank loan | Owners with solid credit and records | Ask your current bank or credit union |
| Business line of credit | Ongoing or seasonal cash needs | How to get a business line of credit |
SBA has reduced the upfront guaranty fee on SBA Express loans for eligible veteran-owned businesses. Ask the lender to confirm the current fee in writing.
To find lenders that make SBA loans, use SBA Lender Match.
If a reservist on your team is called to active duty
SBA's Military Reservist Economic Injury Disaster Loan (MREIDL) can help a small business cover operating costs when an essential employee is called to active duty. It is a direct SBA disaster loan. Start at SBA disaster assistance, and see our guide to emergency business funding.
Grants are not the main path
Veteran grants are competitive and usually small. Apply for the ones that fit, but do not put your plans on hold while you wait. See grants for veteran-owned businesses and small business grants open now.
Veteran-owned certification and contracts
SBA's VOSB and SDVOSB certifications can open federal contract opportunities. Learn more on SBA's veterans page. They are not loans, but winning contracts can strengthen a later loan application.
Be careful with fast offers
Offers marketed "for veterans" that take daily or weekly payments are usually merchant cash advances, so compare longer-term options first. Read is a merchant cash advance a good idea. If unwanted calls start after you apply online, see how to stop MCA broker calls.
Every other way to fund your business
Loans are only one option. See every way to fund your business.
Sources
Checked on SBA.gov and VA.gov on October 23, 2026.
Last updated October 23, 2026