Welcome to another captivating episode of SBA Today, with hosts Paul Long and Tonya Mazurek. This episode is packed with expert insights into SBA lending trends, business acquisition strategies, and the potential impacts of upcoming legislative changes.

Joined by a vibrant discussion on the latest conferences, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the SBA lending landscape. Tonya and Paul open with a lively recap of the recent IBBA conference and delve into the crucial trends emerging in business acquisitions. They discuss how 60% of entrepreneurs still choose to start businesses from scratch, highlighting the adventurous spirit of today's small business landscape.

The conversation shifts to seller market confidence and how larger loan sizes are suggesting a more stable borrowing environment. They explore the importance of cash financing in acquisitions, predicting future shifts in borrower behavior. The hosts also turn their attention to anticipated changes from upcoming Senate Small Business Committee hearings. They debate proposals like expanding lending caps and adjusting guarantees, weighing their implications for the banking sector.

The show's engaging dialogue is wrapped up with Tonya's signature freestyle, infusing an extra dose of dynamism into this insightful episode.

Key Takeaways:

• Business Startup Trends: Despite the complexities, 60% of entrepreneurs prefer starting their own businesses over buying existing ones.
• Larger Loans and Market Confidence: Larger loan amounts correlate with higher market confidence, influenced by seasoned business acquirers and more established enterprises.
• Cash Dominance in Small Deals: A significant portion of transactions under $1 million are conducted with cash, suggesting a shift in acquisition strategies.
• Legislative Impacts: Potential legislative changes could adjust lending caps without affecting guarantee percentages, significantly impacting risk management strategies.
• Finding the Right Lender: Tonya's insightful freestyle underscores the importance of selecting lenders and loan officers aligned with borrowers' visions and businesses.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings". We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact. Get started today! https://res-title.com/

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.

In this riveting episode of SBA Today, hosts Tonya Mazurek and Paul Long dive into the challenges and triumphs of small business administration, sharing amusing personal anecdotes and valuable insights.

The first 100 days of new SBA administration initiatives are discussed, revealing an increase in loan approvals and strategic reorganizations aimed at improving operational efficiency.

Throughout the episode, Tonya and Paul dissect essential differences between PLP and GP lending programs, illuminating how these choices can impact small businesses. By drawing parallels to everyday situations—such as a misfired morning coffee setup—they provide practical insights into how these banking programs operate.

Listeners are given a deep understanding of important policy shifts and what these mean for both lenders and borrowers in the thriving landscape of small business finance.

• SBA's First 100 Days: Major achievements include an 80% increase in loan approvals and efforts to reduce fraud, underscoring a governmental push for economic vitality.

• PLP vs. GP Banks: The episode illustrates detailed comparisons between Preferred Lender Program (PLP) and General Processing (GP) loans, with emphasis on speed, efficiency, and risk.

• Navigating Lending Choices: Insight into how borrowers can navigate loans—whether through PLP or GP routes—depending on their financial history and particular loan complexity.

• Practical Tips for Lenders and Borrowers: Understanding nuances in lending is crucial, as echoed by experiences shared by the hosts, promoting a strategized approach towards business lending.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings". We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact. Get started today! https://res-title.com/

⚠️ Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.

This week's SBA Today cracks open the exciting new legislation aimed at supercharging US manufacturers! Paul and Tonya break down the "Made in America Manufacturing Financing Act" – could businesses tap into loans up to $10 MILLION? We also dive into the game-changing E2G program with grants up to $1.1 MILLION! Don't miss how these changes, plus crucial SBA SOP updates you NEED to know, could fuel your growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Ownership Rule Confusion: New SOP changes have created confusion around co-borrower vs. guarantor requirements, especially in partial ownership changes, with technical corrections expected.
• SBA Rule Awareness: Many brokers are unaware of recent SBA fee changes, and escrow holdbacks must comply with the 5-day rule.
• House Bills: The House Small Business Committee advanced 7 bills, including measures to: Decentralize the SBA ➡️Codify citizenship verification ➡️Address SBA offices in sanctuary cities ➡️Limit SBLC licenses ➡️Increase transparency on regulatory costs ➡️Require cost impact analysis for new regulations.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings". We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact. Get started today! https://res-title.com/

⚠️ Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.

In this engaging episode of SBA Today, hosts Paul Long and Tonya Mazurek delve into the latest updates in the SBA's SOP, effective from June 1st.

They explore a multitude of rule changes impacting business brokers, borrowers, and credit risk managers across the country. The lively conversation taps into the implications of these updates, discussing everything from the reintroduction of the franchise directory to the nuances of financing over 90% of a buyout price.

Paul and Tonya navigate the SBA's complex regulatory landscape, using keywords such as SBA lending, SOP updates, franchise directory, equity injection, and PLP lenders to enrich their discussion. They candidly address the concerns and opportunities these new rules present, offering thumbs-up or thumbs-down assessments to each change. As advocates for clear, practical advice, they provide a balanced view of the measures, highlighting the potential benefits and drawbacks for various stakeholders in the SBA ecosystem.

Key Takeaways:

• Franchise Directory Returns: The SBA reintroduces the franchise directory, emphasizing strict guidelines for franchisors to ensure accountability.
• Substitution of Guarantee: Eliminated to streamline processes and decrease exploitation risks in SBA lending.
• Equity Injection for Startups: A new rule mandates a 10% equity injection for startups, enhancing borrower accountability and risk management.
• Restrictions on MCA Debt Refinancing: Restrictions on refinancing MCA or factoring debts views them as last-resort borrowing.
• No More GP for PLPs: PLP lenders can no longer send loans to GP, promoting greater responsibility and decision-making confidence.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings".

We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact.

Get started today! https://res-title.com/

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.

Join hosts Paul Long and Tonya Mazurek on this informative episode of SBA Today as they dissect the newest updates in SBA lending practices, focusing on the long-awaited and newly released SOP 5000 updates.

Presented with their signature blend of humor and expertise, they delve into what these changes mean for lenders, the implications for servicing actions, and the renewed importance of personal and business credit scores in loan evaluations. In a detailed discussion rich with practical insights, Paul and Tonya explore the intricacies of the SOP 5057 servicing requirements, effective from April 2025, providing plenty of practical tips for lenders to stay compliant.

They highlight the criticality of maintaining accurate documentation for loan servicing actions, offering reassurance to lenders amidst these changes.

Additionally, they spotlight the reintroduction of equity verification, emphasizing the importance of credible documentation and how these shifts echo SBA's earlier, more stringent standards.

Key Takeaways:

• The new SOP 5057 servicing requirements will apply to loans serviced by the SBA from April 15, 2025. It's imperative for lenders to maintain documentation reflective of the SOPs in place when the service action was initiated.
• Personal credit scores continue to outweigh business credit scores in significance, with 90% of lenders considering personal scores over business scores when evaluating loan applications.
• SBA is enforcing strict confidentiality rules, prohibiting its employees from discussing internal information with outside entities, underlining the importance of discretion in communication.
• Equity injection verification is reintroduced, ensuring lenders provide proof of equity sourced in alignment with the SOPs effective at the time of loan issuance.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings". We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact. Get started today! https://res-title.com/

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.

In this episode of "SBA Today," hosts Paul Long and Tonya Mazurek dive into the Small Business Administration's (SBA) latest fraud prevention measures.

Paul and Tonya draw parallels between these fraud checks and TSA security practices, highlighting the potential frustrations faced by businesses seeking financial assistance. They also discuss the peculiarities surrounding applications flagged for improbable age submissions and question both the flexibility and functionality of the SBA's systems.

The show's core revolves around the SBA's ongoing efforts to curb fraudulent activities within its loan programs. Paul and Tanya scrutinize the effectiveness of these measures, such as citizenship verification and age checks, speculating on whether they are errors within SBA systems or instances of creative fraud. Using a conversational tone replete with lighthearted banter, they ponder over the potential for increased paperwork and processing delays.

This episode further underscores the important yet frustrating role of bureaucracy and compliance for emerging entrepreneurs and community businesses, emphasizing the need for practical application and human oversight.

• The SBA has implemented new fraud prevention measures, including citizenship verification and automatic alerts for improbable ages to combat identity fraud.

• Concerns are raised about the efficacy of these systems and whether they add unnecessary complexity, potentially burdening small businesses.

• There is skepticism about whether these policies may unintentionally create more paperwork, thus delaying processes for both lenders and business owners.

• Paul and Tanya emphasize the importance of human oversight alongside algorithmic checks, implying potential pitfalls if fully relying on automated systems.

• The episode brings attention to the upcoming National Small Business Week and urges the audience to partake in local events to witness the contributions and successes of small businesses.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings". We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact. Get started today! www.res-title.com

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.

In this engaging episode of "SBA Today," hosts Paul Long and Tonya Mazurek navigate the complex world of SBA loans and business acquisitions. Joined by Ryan Hutchins from Peak Business Valuations, they deliver a compelling discussion on various lending and valuation topics relevant to the current economic landscape.

From tackling debates over student loans and governmental operations' financial sustainability to dissecting the intricacies of business valuation, the hosts provide listeners with actionable insights and industry expertise.

The episode dives deep into the pertinent issues surrounding student loans, potential new legislative changes, and the challenges related to staffing and loan management within governmental agencies.

Ryan Hutchins enhances the discussion with his expert analysis on working capital needs, quality of earnings, and business valuation's critical role in helping entrepreneurs make informed investment decisions. His detailed explanations offer a roadmap for understanding how businesses can be evaluated more effectively, especially in times of economic fluctuation and uncertainty.

• Student Loans in SBA Lending: The controversial proposal to integrate student loans into SBA lending has generated significant debate among lawmakers and lenders.

• Quality of Earnings and Business Valuations: The rising significance of quality of earnings (QOE) and business valuations highlights the importance of assessing financial health and ensuring accurate evaluations, particularly in high-stakes acquisitions.

• Economic Outlook and Trade Impact: Economic challenges, such as international trade dynamics and inflation, are also reshaping the environment for small businesses and manufacturers in the U.S.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings". We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact. Get started today! www.res-title.com

In this lively episode of SBA Today, hosts Paul Long and Tonya Mazurek delve into a series of significant topics affecting the Small Business Administration (SBA) and its stakeholders.

On this timely broadcast airing during the week of April Fool's Day, and filled with spirited banter, they kick off by thanking Rez Title, their new show sponsor. Resuming after Tonya's sun-filled vacation in Florida, where she enjoyed her time acting as the first mate on her cousin's charter company in Key West, they bring their audiences back to the pivotal updates in the SBA universe.

Throughout the episode, Paul and Tanya explore several crucial themes, from the recent job cuts at the SBA to the mandatory inclusion of birthdates in loan applications. They analyze the complexities of these changes, contextualizing them within the broader landscape of small business lending.

Additionally, they discuss the SBA's return to collecting fees on 7(a) loans, emphasizing the necessity for the program to stay financially independent and self-subsidized. Key insights are shared on young entrepreneurs' reluctance to indulge in debt and the evolving relationship between business owners and financial service providers over time, based on data from the Federal Reserve's small business report.

Key Takeaways:

• The SBA is cutting 2,700 jobs, impacting various levels of operations, though essential programs remain unaffected.
• A new procedural requirement now mandates that borrower birthdates be recorded in E-Tran, affecting loan application processes.
• The return of 7(a) loan fees aims to rectify the program's financial deficit, ensuring it remains self-sustained.
• Lending patterns show a shift from large institutions to smaller banks and credit unions over the lifespan of a business.
• Young entrepreneurs under 35 are notably averse to taking on debt, influencing the SBA's strategic adjustments.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings". We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact. Get started today! https://res-title.com/

Are you a business owner or prospective business owner? Let's see how we can help you.

If your business or perspective business is in:

Washington, Oregon, or Idaho contact: Paul Long at Gesa Credit Union [email protected]

Colorado, Texas, Missouri, Florida, Arizona, and Tennessee contact: Tonya Mazurek at Midwest Regional Bank [email protected]

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.

In this lively episode of SBA Today, hosts Paul Long and Tonya Mazurek delve into a series of significant topics affecting the Small Business Administration (SBA) and its stakeholders.

On this timely broadcast airing during the week of April Fool's Day, and filled with spirited banter, they kick off by thanking Rez Title, their new show sponsor. Resuming after Tonya's sun-filled vacation in Florida, where she enjoyed her time acting as the first mate on her cousin's charter company in Key West, they bring their audiences back to the pivotal updates in the SBA universe.

Throughout the episode, Paul and Tanya explore several crucial themes, from the recent job cuts at the SBA to the mandatory inclusion of birthdates in loan applications. They analyze the complexities of these changes, contextualizing them within the broader landscape of small business lending.

Additionally, they discuss the SBA's return to collecting fees on 7(a) loans, emphasizing the necessity for the program to stay financially independent and self-subsidized. Key insights are shared on young entrepreneurs' reluctance to indulge in debt and the evolving relationship between business owners and financial service providers over time, based on data from the Federal Reserve's small business report.

Key Takeaways:

• The SBA is cutting 2,700 jobs, impacting various levels of operations, though essential programs remain unaffected.
• A new procedural requirement now mandates that borrower birthdates be recorded in E-Tran, affecting loan application processes.
• The return of 7(a) loan fees aims to rectify the program's financial deficit, ensuring it remains self-sustained.
• Lending patterns show a shift from large institutions to smaller banks and credit unions over the lifespan of a business.
• Young entrepreneurs under 35 are notably averse to taking on debt, influencing the SBA's strategic adjustments.

🛠 Sponsored by Res/Title – your "One Stop Shop for SBA closings". We're your commercial title and closing company that provides you with the tools and technology to give you an instant quote and AI property reports on any deal in the nation. Whether it's for $35,000 or $35 Mil, we handle closings anywhere in the nation with one point of contact. Get started today! https://res-title.com/

Are you a business owner or prospective business owner? Let's see how we can help you.

If your business or perspective business is in:

Washington, Oregon, or Idaho contact: Paul Long at Gesa Credit Union [email protected]

Colorado, Texas, Missouri, Florida, Arizona, and Tennessee contact: Tonya Mazurek at Midwest Regional Bank [email protected]

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.

In this engaging episode of SBA Today, host Paul Long delves into the dynamic world of Small Business Administration loans alongside guest Lance Sexton.

Paul and Lance explore significant changes unfolding in the SBA landscape, including the reintroduction of fees, the latest policy updates, and other critical lending developments. Through lively discussion, they shed light on these changes and their implications for lenders.

SBA's decision to reinstate fees marks the end of a period of no-cost loans, a move aimed at ensuring zero subsidy operations and securing bipartisan support for the lending program.

The episode further unpacks the revised environmental policies, highlighting the necessity of updated reports and how they impact the loan process. The conversation navigates through additional regulatory changes, such as updates in form requirements and imminent SOP updates expected in the quarterly 7A connect call.

Also, student loan servicing shifts under SBA, while significant workforce reductions raise concerns about retaining specialized staff.

Key Takeaways:

• SBA is reinstating borrower fees to maintain the zero-subsidy status of its loan programs, known as the "reverse price rollback."
• New environmental policies require real estate environmental reports to be no more than a year old, maintaining transactional transparency and safety.
• Form updates, like the 1919, have introduced slight changes that lenders need to be aware of to remain compliant.
• SBA is making a substantial workforce reduction, cutting 2,700 jobs to realign with pre-pandemic levels while shifting more focus to field operations.
• The SBA responsibility now includes student loan servicing, highlighting the expansion and increased complexity of the agency's roles.

Are you a business owner or prospective business owner? Let's see how we can help you.

If your business or perspective business is in:

Washington, Oregon, or Idaho contact: Paul Long at Gesa Credit Union [email protected]

Colorado, Texas, Missouri, Florida, Arizona, and Tennessee contact: Tonya Mazurek at Midwest Regional Bank [email protected]

Disclaimer: The views expressed on this show are our own and not necessarily the views of our employer.