Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announces the nationwide launch of the “Are You Lender Ready?” program. This program includes interactive sessions designed to educate business owners on key financial concepts, including how to prepare the strongest possible loan application for lenders to review. 

“We are excited to see the ‘Are You Lender Ready?’ program take off in cities across America,” said SBA Office of Field Operations Associate Administrator Jennifer Kim. “Under Administrator Guzman’s leadership, we are meeting entrepreneurs where they are and tailoring resources to address their needs. This program will empower small businesses to scale and grow through borrower education, further driving economic growth and creating opportunities for success.” 

SBA’s “Are You Lender Ready?” series streamlines the lender preparation process into more manageable steps, making it easier for business owners to follow, implement, and succeed.  

The comprehensive series of trainings are designed to enhance entrepreneurs’ understanding of business credit and essential financial documents, while going beyond the basics and incorporating case studies and strategies for effective loan pitching. Through the “Are You Lender Ready?” series, small business owners will learn to confidently engage with lenders and enjoy valuable opportunities to grow their network of lenders through panels and other networking events.  

“Access to capital is too often a barrier for entrepreneurs,” said Kim. “The ‘Are You Lender Ready?’ series will help demystify the loan process and get more small businesses prepared to engage with lenders.” 

 While all small businesses can benefit from the program, “Are You Lender Ready?” is tailored for businesses that have been operating for at least two years with the intent to enhance their ability to secure business loans.    

The new program will be led by SBA’s District Offices. Entrepreneurs who are interested in the “Are You Lender Ready?” program will be able to find upcoming events happening across the nation at sba.gov/events or find their closest SBA resource at sba.gov/local-assistance.