Small Business Loan Programs
Direct Loan Programs that Can Help Small Businesses Thrive
Access to capital can be one of the biggest challenges facing small businesses, especially during periods of growth, expansion, or transition. Through the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD) offers financing programs designed to help eligible Virginia businesses secure the funding they need to move forward with confidence.
VSBFA loan programs can support businesses in a variety of ways. Some of these programs provide direct financing opportunities for businesses that may not qualify for traditional lending alone, while other programs work alongside commercial lenders by helping bridge financing gaps, reducing collateral shortfalls, or supporting transactions that may otherwise fall outside conventional underwriting standards.
Whether your business is launching, expanding operations, investing in equipment, creating jobs, or pursuing new opportunities, VSBFA financing programs are designed to help Virginia small businesses access the capital needed to grow and thrive.
Explore Our Loan Programs:

Microloan Program
This is a direct loan from the VSBFA to the business client that does not require a bank’s participation in the transaction.
See Forms & Requirements

Child Care Financing Program
This program is focused on helping qualifying child care providers improve the health, safety, welfare, and education of the children in their care through specific uses of funds.
See Forms & Requirements

Economic Development Loan
This is a companion loan for fixed-asset financing needs designed to fill the financing gap between the bank’s loan and private equity.
See Forms & Requirements

Capital Connect Program - SSBCI 2.0
This is a loan participation program that offers direct loans alongside companion small business loans originated by lenders.
See Forms & Requirements
Loan Program Documents and Resources:
Please review all Microloan Program documents carefully before applying to ensure you understand eligibility requirements, application materials, and program guidelines. If you have questions or need assistance determining whether this program is the right fit for your business, please contact VSBFA for guidance.
Step #1: Ensure Your Eligibility
To begin, make sure you:
- Are currently operating a business in Virginia
- Are in good standing with the State Corporation Commission
- Have a credit score of 650 or higher
Businesses must also meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Have $10M or less in annual revenue over each of the last three years
- Have a net worth of $2M or less
- Have fewer than 250 employees
Step #2: Determine How You Will Use The Funds
Microloan Program funds may be used for:
- Business acquisition
- Equipment and fixed asset purchases
- Working capital
(Some restrictions may apply)
Funds may NOT be used to:
- Finance construction
- Finance non-owner occupied real estate investments
- Refinance debt
Step #3: Review Program Loan Amounts and Terms
- Loan amounts up to $150,000 for qualifying applicants
- Repayment terms vary, but range from 5-7 years
- Monthly payments must be made by automatic withdrawal from the Borrower’s bank account
Step #4: Apply For Funding
Funding is provided by The Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSFBA). There is a one-time, non-refundable application fee of $150.
Please review all Child Care Financing Program (CCFP) documents carefully before applying to ensure you understand eligibility requirements, application materials, and program guidelines. If you have questions or need assistance determining whether this program is the right fit for your business, please contact VSBFA for guidance.
Step #1: Ensure Your Eligibility
To begin, make sure you:
- Are doing business in Virginia
- Are in good standing with Licensing or Child Care Subsidy programs
- Are able to demonstrate repayment capability
- Have a credit score of 650 or higher
Child Care Centers must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Licensed by Virginia Department of Education (VDOE)
- Certified by VDOE (preschools only)
- Religious-exempt
Family Day Homes must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Licensed by VDOE or operating under a local ordinance
- Participating in the Child Care Subsidy Program
- Part of a licensed family day care system
- Participating in the USDA Food Program
Step #2: Determine How You Will Use The Funds
The Child Care Loan may be used to:
Purchase of items and completion of improvements directly related to the health, safety, and welfare of the children and overall learning environment.
Examples:
- Infant care equipment
- Fencing and playground equipment
- Resilient surfacing of playgrounds
- Tricycles
- Tables and chairs
- Locakable cabinets; child cubbies
- Cribs; cots; blankets
- Books
Funds may be used for MINOR remodeling or upgrades to the child care facility necessary to comply with VDOE health and safety standards. Subject to review by the Virginia Department of Education.
Examples:
- Building changes to meet requirements for children with special needs
- Upgrades to increase building functionality
Funds may be used for the purchase of qualified transportation equipment (child care centers only)
Step #3: Review Terms For Your Loan
- Family Day Home providers may borrow up to $15,000 for repayment up to 7 years
- Child Care Centers may borrow up to $150,000 for repayment up to 7 years
- Child Care Centers may borrow up to $250,000 for repayment up to 10 years
At this time, no interest or loan fees apply.
Step #4: Apply For Funding
Funding is provided by the U.S. Administration for Children and Families through The Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSFBA), in partnership with the Virginia Department of Education. There is a one-time, non-refundable application fee of $125 for childcare centers or $75 for family home care providers.
Please review all Economic Development Loan Program documents carefully before applying to ensure you understand eligibility requirements, application materials, and program guidelines. If you have questions or need assistance determining whether this program is the right fit for your business, please contact VSBFA for guidance.
Please review all SSBCI 2.0 Capital Connect Program documents carefully before applying to ensure you understand eligibility requirements, application materials, and program guidelines. If you have questions or need assistance determining whether this program is the right fit for your business, please contact VSBFA for guidance.