Business Lines of Credit

SBA CAPLines Program

CAPLines are a subset of the 7(a) program, providing lines of credit specifically designed for short-term and cyclical working capital needs. Unlike term loans, these revolving credit lines let you draw funds as you need them and replenish as you repay — you only pay interest on what you use.

Types of CAPLines

• Seasonal CAPLine — for businesses with seasonal inventory and accounts receivable fluctuations
• Contract CAPLine — finances direct labor and material costs of specific contracts
• Builders CAPLine — for small general contractors or builders financing construction or renovation
• Working Capital CAPLine — a general revolving line of credit for short-term working capital

Export Credit Programs

The SBA offers specialized lines of credit for businesses engaged in international trade, with higher guaranty rates to offset the additional risk of global commerce.

Export Program Details

• Export Express — up to $500K with accelerated turnaround and up to 90% SBA guaranty
• Export Working Capital (EWCP) — up to $5M to finance export transactions from purchase order to collection
• International Trade — up to $5M for businesses expanding export capacity or affected by import competition

Surety Bond Guarantee Program

Not a loan, but worth knowing about — the SBA guarantees 80–90% of a surety company's loss if a contractor defaults. This helps small contractors who couldn't otherwise secure surety bonds to bid on and win contracts. It's a vital tool for construction and service businesses pursuing government or large commercial contracts.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a for-profit small business operating in the U.S.
• Meets the SBA's size standards for your industry
• Creditworthy with demonstrated ability to repay
• Export programs: must be engaged in or developing export activities
• Builders CAPLine: must be a licensed general contractor or builder