Acquiring a business shouldn't require draining your savings.
Whether you're buying a competitor, executing a partner buyout, acquiring a franchise, or expanding through M&A, we structure financing that aligns with the seller's terms, your equity, and the cash flow of the target.
Business Acquisition Financing at a glance
- Loan amounts
- $250,000 – $15,000,000
- Term length
- 7 – 10 years, up to 25 years with real estate
- Typical pricing
- SBA 7(a) pricing on most deals; conventional for larger targets
- Funding speed
- 45 – 90 days to close
- Credit guidance
- Typically 680+ FICO plus relevant industry experience
Key Benefits
- SBA 7(a), conventional, and seller-financing structures
- Up to 90% financing on qualifying deals
- 10-year amortization options
- Combined with working capital when needed
Best Fit For
- Entrepreneurs buying their first business
- Owners executing partner buyouts
- Franchise buyers and multi-unit operators
- Strategic acquirers and roll-ups
Why use a broker instead of going to your bank?
Acquisition deals often need creative stacking — SBA + seller note + equity + working capital. We structure it end-to-end so the deal actually closes.
Learn more about working with a brokerHow business acquisition financing compare
We broker every product on this list, so this comparison is about fit — not about steering you toward one option.
Compared with
SBA 7(a) standalone
Acquisition financing is usually built on SBA 7(a), but we stack it with seller notes, equity injections, and a working capital tranche so the business has cash on day one.
Compared with
Seller financing only
Pure seller financing keeps the seller on the hook and often caps the purchase price. Bank or SBA debt pays the seller out at close, which strengthens your negotiating position.
Business Acquisition Financing: frequently asked questions
How much money do I need to buy a business?
Most SBA acquisition deals require a 10% equity injection, and half of that can sometimes come from a seller note on full standby. On a $1M purchase that means roughly $50,000 to $100,000 of your own cash.
Do I need experience in the industry I'm buying into?
Lenders strongly prefer it. Direct operating experience, transferable management experience, or retaining the existing management team all help satisfy this requirement.
How long does business acquisition financing take?
Typically 45 to 90 days. A clean, well-documented target with current financials and a signed LOI moves fastest.
Can I finance a partner buyout?
Yes. Partner and shareholder buyouts are a common SBA 7(a) use case, provided the business cash flow supports the new debt.
Will the business itself serve as collateral?
Yes. Lenders take a lien on business assets, and a personal guarantee is required. Available real estate is typically pledged as additional collateral.
What is the business valuation process?
SBA lenders order an independent third-party valuation for deals above $250,000. Purchase price above the appraised value must generally be covered with additional buyer equity.
More answers on the business financing FAQ and in the commercial lending glossary.
Other financing solutions
Working Capital Loans
Cover payroll, inventory, and day-to-day expenses with flexible short-term capital.
Commercial Real Estate Loans
Purchase, refinance, or build commercial properties with structures matched to your project.
Bridge Loans
Move quickly on opportunities while you arrange long-term financing.
Ready to explore business acquisition financing?
A 15-minute conversation is all it takes to know if this is the right fit. No obligation.