If you're a small business owner in search of financing options, you may have come across the term CDC loans. CDC loans, also known as 504 loans, are a type of loan program offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for the specific purpose of helping small businesses secure long-term fixed assets such as real estate and machinery. In this article, we'll explore what CDC loans are, how they work, and whether they might be a good fit for your business's financing needs.
A CDC loan is a type of SBA loan program that helps small businesses finance long-term fixed assets. CDC stands for Certified Development Company, which is a type of nonprofit organization that partners with the SBA to provide financing to small businesses. A CDC loan is actually a combination of two loans: a loan from a private-sector lender, and a second loan provided by a CDC. The private-sector lender provides up to 50% of the project financing, while the CDC provides up to 40%, with the borrower contributing a minimum of 10% in equity.
One of the key features of a CDC loan is its fixed-rate, long-term structure. The loan terms can range from 10 to 20 years for real estate, and 10 years for machinery and equipment. unsecured business term loan. The interest rates are also fixed, which provides businesses with stability and predictability in their monthly payments. The maximum loan amount is $5 million, which can be used to finance a broad range of fixed assets such as land, buildings, equipment, and even some soft costs such as closing costs and appraisals.
The CDC loan process starts with a private-sector lender, such as a bank or credit union, who will provide up to 50% of the project financing. The borrower will then work with a CDC to secure the remaining 40% of the financing. The CDC loan is funded by the sale of SBA-guaranteed debentures to private investors, which are then used to fund the loan to the borrower.
One of the unique aspects of the CDC loan process is that the borrower must work with a CDC to access the financing. The CDC will conduct a thorough analysis of the borrower's creditworthiness and the project's feasibility before approving the loan. The CDC will also work with the borrower to provide technical assistance and counseling throughout the loan process.
There are several benefits to consider when evaluating whether a CDC loan might be a good fit for your small business:
CDC loans can be an excellent financing option for small businesses looking to finance long-term fixed assets, such as real estate and equipment. With its lower down payment, longer repayment terms, and fixed interest rates, CDC loans offer several benefits compared to traditional commercial loans. However, like any financing option, it's essential to evaluate whether the terms and requirements of a CDC loan align with your business's needs and goals. If you're interested in exploring CDC loans further, contact a local CDC in your area or work with an SBA-approved lender to get started.