COVID-19 Small Business Loans
The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers programs that can help your business if it’s been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.
Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
The Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) ended on May 31, 2021. It offered loans to help small businesses and non-profits keep their workers employed. If you follow the guidelines, your loan may be forgiven.
Learn about the SBA's Paycheck Protection Program, including program details and frequently asked questions.
Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)
An Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) helps small businesses and nonprofits that are losing money during the coronavirus pandemic and that need funds for financial obligations and operating expenses.
SBA stopped accepting applications for EIDLs on December 31, 2021.
SBA Debt Relief
SBA’s Debt Relief Program pays the principal, interest, and fees for six months for 7(a), 504, and Microloans disbursed before September 27, 2020. Beginning in February 2021, that relief was extended for certain businesses.
For details, see the “Small Business Debt Relief Program” section, page 9 of the Small Business Owner’s Guide to COVID-19 Relief Legislation.
Shuttered Venue Operators Grant
If you're a talent representative or operate a theater, museum, or a live performing arts or event venue, you may qualify for a grant equal to 45% of your gross earned revenue.
Learn more about the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant and see if you qualify.
Explore government-backed loans and funding programs for your business.
Small Business Loans
Government loan programs offer financial support to people starting or expanding a business. This helps those who may have trouble qualifying for a traditional bank loan.
In these programs, you’ll apply by creating a loan package with a participating lender. The federal government will guarantee a portion of the loan and will repay the lender if you default. This government guarantee reduces the risk to the lender and increases the likelihood of a loan being offered.
Use these government resources and services to find a loan that best suits your business needs:
- Small Business Administration (SBA) - Explore many types of loans for starting and expanding a business, handling disasters, and exporting goods.
- U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Get information on government-guaranteed loans for rural businesses and local program contacts.
- GovLoans - Research many types of federal loans for your business and learn how to apply.
- Small Business Lending Fund (SBLF) - The SBLF is an initiative of the U.S. Treasury Department. It provides capital to qualified community banks and community development loan funds (CDLFs). This helps banks and businesses work together to promote economic growth and create new jobs.
No Federal Grants for Businesses
The federal government does not offer grants for starting or growing a business. It only provides grants for nonprofit and educational institutions. These organizations focus mainly on medicine, technology development, and other related fields. Find out more about federal grants.
Some state and local programs offer business grants. They usually require you to match the funds. Or, they may expect you to combine the grant with other forms of financing, such as a loan.
Other Government Funding Options for Your Business
These federal and state programs can also help finance your business:
- Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) Program - The SBA partners with private investment funds licensed as SBICs to provide growth capital to small businesses. Find out if SBIC financing is right for your business.
- Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Programs - The SBIR/STTR programs are competitive and awards-based. They encourage small businesses to pursue federal research or research and development (R/R&D) projects. While exploring their technological potential, businesses can profit from commercialization. Learn how to apply.
- State and Local Business Assistance - Find out about state and local business financial assistance where you live. This includes financing for business expansion, state credit initiatives, and more.
