Overview

Commerce Bancshares offers SBA loan solutions designed to help entrepreneurs access capital with competitive terms, longer maturities, and lower down payments than many conventional loans. Whether you are starting a new business, expanding operations, purchasing equipment, refinancing existing debt, or acquiring commercial real estate, an SBA-backed loan from Commerce Bancshares combines the U.S. Small Business Administration guarantee with the bank’s personalized service and local decision-making.

Why choose an SBA loan with Commerce Bancshares?

• Lower down payments: SBA programs often require smaller down payments than conventional commercial loans, preserving cash flow for day-to-day operations and growth.
• Longer repayment terms: Longer amortizations reduce monthly payments and improve cash management for borrowers.
• Competitive capital access: SBA guarantees make it easier for qualified small businesses to obtain financing that might otherwise be unavailable.
• Local expertise, national resources: Commerce Bancshares blends community-focused service with deep experience in SBA lending to deliver fast, pragmatic solutions.
• Flexible use of funds: SBA lending supports a wide range of business needs, including working capital, equipment purchases, real estate acquisition, tenant improvements, and debt refinancing.

Types of SBA loans available

Commerce Bancshares helps borrowers evaluate and secure the SBA loan product that best fits their objectives and eligibility profile:

• SBA 7(a) Loans: The most popular SBA program, ideal for working capital, equipment purchases, expansion, and business acquisition. Offers flexible terms and uses.
• SBA CDC/504 Loans: Designed for owner-occupied commercial real estate and major fixed asset projects. Provides long-term, fixed-rate financing with low down payment requirements.
• SBA Express and SBA Community Advantage: Streamlined options that can deliver faster decisions for smaller loan amounts, supporting microenterprises and community-focused businesses.

Typical loan structure and terms

Specific terms depend on the loan program, borrower qualifications, and project details. Generally, SBA loans provide longer amortization periods than many conventional options, and repayment schedules are structured to support sustainable cash flow. Commerce Bancshares works with borrowers to develop an affordable repayment plan, transparent fee schedule, and clear timeline from application to closing.

Who is eligible?

Eligibility for SBA-backed financing typically requires that the business be for-profit, operate within the United States, and meet size standards established by the SBA. Commerce Bancshares evaluates each application based on business performance, credit history, management experience, collateral, and the viability of the business plan. Startups and existing businesses both may qualify, depending on the strength of the application and the intended use of proceeds.

Common uses of SBA loan proceeds

• Acquisition or construction of owner-occupied commercial real estate
• Purchase of machinery, vehicles, and equipment
• Working capital to smooth seasonal cash flow or seize growth opportunities
• Business acquisition or franchise purchase
• Inventory financing and accounts receivable support
• Debt refinancing to reduce monthly costs or consolidate obligations

Application process — what to expect

1. Pre-qualification: Initial conversation to review needs, eligibility, and potential loan programs.
2. Application preparation: Gather required documents, financial statements, business plan or project summary, and ownership information.
3. Submission and underwriting: Commerce Bancshares and the SBA evaluate creditworthiness, collateral, and repayment capacity.
4. Commitment and closing: Approve terms, finalize documents, and close the loan with clear disbursement plans.
5. Post-closing support: Ongoing relationship management and access to additional products and advisory services as your business evolves.

Documentation typically requested

To streamline review, have these items ready:

• Business financial statements and tax returns
• Personal financial statements and tax returns for owners
• Business plan or executive summary outlining use of proceeds and projected performance
• Balance sheet, profit and loss statements, and cash flow projections
• Legal documents such as articles of organization, bylaws, leases, and purchase agreements
• Collateral documentation, appraisals, and environmental reports as applicable

How Commerce Bancshares supports your success

Securing financing is just the beginning. Commerce Bancshares provides a relationship-driven approach that includes personalized guidance through the SBA process, experienced underwriting tailored to the realities of small business ownership, and ongoing service to help your business thrive. The bank’s commercial lending specialists collaborate with borrowers to identify the most appropriate SBA product and structure the loan to support long-term growth and stability.

Tips to strengthen your SBA loan application

• Prepare clear, realistic financial projections and demonstrate an understanding of cash flow requirements.
• Maintain accurate, up-to-date financial records and be prepared to explain historical performance.
• Showcase management experience and a coherent business strategy.
• Provide complete documentation early to reduce processing delays.
• Work with Commerce Bancshares’ lending team to address gaps and optimize loan structure.