Multi-racial flower shop owners working on table and planting flowers
Multi-racial flower shop owners working on table and planting flowers

small business lending, in a big way

Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans

Every day you give it your all. Your business is your heart and soul. But sometimes you need a little extra help – whether you’re just getting started or need to get to the next stage. We’re proud to be part of the Preferred Lender Program of the Small Business Administration (SBA). That means our team is trusted and has the experience and know-how to position your business for growth, now and in the future.

Why we love SBA Loans

Female clothing retailer logging inventory on laptop

The utility knife of loans

No matter how big your dream, an SBA loan is versatile enough to get you there. Use it to:

  • Start a new business
  • Purchase, refinance, or expand an existing business
  • Secure working capital
  • Finance inventory
  • Purchase machinery and equipment
Commercial printer surveying print job

Longer terms & lower down payments

A little goes a long way to get started. SBA loans require a lower down payment and come with longer terms than conventional loans. They are guaranteed in part by the U.S. government, and payments can be amortized over time so you can get your small business off the ground even faster – with just a little.

African-American coffee shop owner hanging “open” sign

Just getting started?

If your business is new or you haven’t built up enough collateral for a traditional loan, don’t worry. We offer express loans that give you the working capital you need to grow your business.

People doing construction work with Innovative Labor and Cleaning Services logo in foreground

ILCS was held back financially due to high-interest debt from an earlier loan. Through Angelica, I not only was able to refinance that loan to reduce debt, but we also secured a line of credit. Now I’m actually able to buy a new building.

  • Take our client's word for it

Meet Troy Parker, President and CEO, Innovative Labor and Cleaning Services Inc. (ILCS)

Troy first met Angelica, our SBA specialist, through First Financial Bank’s involvement with the Minority Business Accelerator. His cleaning company is structured to provide a second chance to the formerly incarcerated and help them transition back into society. Troy knew some banks and agencies found his business model risky, but Angelica didn’t – she connected Troy with the Collateral Enhancement Program, offered by the Ohio Department of Development right away, so he could get ahead of debt.

Read more View more success
  • Take our client’s word for it

Meet Jian – a first-time business owner

Jian worked for a software business in Columbus, OH. When he decided he wanted to buy the firm, he wasn’t sure what kind of loan he needed or where to start. A friend recommended First Financial Bank, where he met Joe. With Joe’s guidance, Jian was approved for an SBA loan, which helped make him a proud first-time business owner. 

First Financial Bank client, Jian, working with his software equipment

My advisor helped me secure funding and gave me the ability to accept digital payments. He also connected me with a network of other professionals to set me up for success.

Let’s talk business

Our experienced SBA team is dedicated to helping you navigate your financing needs so you can access solutions that can help you go further, faster. We start by listening to understand your short- and long-term goals. Then, we help find a loan to meet those needs. The answers aren’t always clear at the beginning, but our experience managing the complexities of small business lending makes the process easier and gets you where you need to go.

Let’s connect on the phone, in-person, or virtually. Just submit the form below and one of our SBA loan specialists will be in touch shortly. It’s really that easy!

In the meantime, here’s more information about the three types of SBA loans we offer:

 








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Our recent deals

Don’t take our word for it. Here’s the proof we know how to help businesses succeed.

$1,082,050

  • 504 LOAN
  • REAL ESTATE PURCHASE FOR A NEUROLOGY PRACTICE
  • CINCINNATI, OH

$761,600

  • 7(a) LOAN
  • MEDICAL PRACTICE TO PURCHASE & RENOVATE NEW BUILDING FOR GROWTH
  • BARDSTOWN, KY

$120,000

  • EXPRESS LOAN
  • GREENHOUSE BUSINESS FOR EXPANSION
  • BROOKEVILLE, IN

We make your business our business

Portrait of Angelica Johnson smiling

Angelica Johnson, SVP, SBA Manager

Angelica, a 14-year industry veteran, has worked all aspects of the SBA lending process – from application and structuring to closing – giving her a unique perspective on how the program can be navigated successfully. That passion earned her Lending Advocate of the Year in 2019 from the Hamilton County Development Agency.

Call Angelica: 513.888.7241 | Cincinnati

For further information on specific rates and terms of the SBA loan program, please visit the SBA website. The terms and conditions are solely within the control of the SBA and may change at any time at the sole discretion of the SBA.

All loans subject to credit review and approval.