The process of finding useful business loans information resources has improved with the availability of government online resources and tools. Save time by connecting to helpful links that give you instant access to online courses, application forms and a variety of loan products that can fit the specific needs of your business.

Make an informed decision about the best loan for your business with knowledge of the full range of products and services that are available to you. As you begin the process or researching business loans information, consider taking the following steps to simplify your search:

1. Visit official government websites to find federal business loans information resources.

2. Review U.S. Department of Commerce resource materials to find business loans research.

3. Seek business loans information resources for specific business types.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Locate business loans reference materials on official government websites

The United States Government offers a vast amount of business loans information as well as services that can help you plan, start, develop and successfully run your business. Review a Small Business Guide to find out more about federal resources that are available.

I recommend: Business.gov is an official United States Government website that provides a wealth of information about government services that can help you finance your business. Use the Small Business Guides offered on the website to find business loans resources. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers free online courses, one of which includes Financing and Accounting. Use this course as well as the other information available on this website to learn more about loan programs and how to prepare a loan package.

Search U.S. Department of Commerce materials to find business loans information

Utilize the U.S. Department of Commerce website to find information an any type of loan product.

I recommend: The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) functions under the U.S. Department of Commerce. Browse the MBDA website to find information about non-conventional state loan programs, basic loan requests, micro loans, term loans and much more. Export.gov is managed by International Trade Administration of the U.S. Department of Commerce. Visit the website to research U.S. Government International Financing Programs if you need a loan to export goods and compete in the global marketplace.

Find business loans resources designed for your type of business

If your business qualifies for special programs, simplify your search by looking for business loan resources that were created for a specific business type.

I recommend: Research Business and Cooperative Programs for the development of businesses in rural communities on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development website. Find links to USDA eForms, Rural Development Field Offices, the Library of Publications and more on this site. Smartway is managed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Office of Transportation and Air Quality. Visit the Smartway Finance Center online to request quotes for equipment loans.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Use business tools and guides to find business loans information and support, along with counselors in your area.