SBA Broker or Sourcing SBA Banks Yourself

February 21, 2026

by a searcher from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management in Brooklyn, NY, USA

I'm curious on people's thoughts of going with an SBA Broker versus sourcing SBA Banks yourself to then send a deal to. I see a lot of value in the SBA Broker approach as a bit of a guide who wants to get you to close and who knows the environment, how to present your deal, etc. However, I know a lot of people like to go it their own and find their SBA Bank without a broker. I would love to hear folks thoughts on Pros and Cons for both approaches.

Reply by a searcher
from Duke University in Portland, ME, USA

My experience was that some SBA brokers required an exclusive commitment to them in order for them to work my deal, and other brokers were willing to work it even if I was in discussions with other prospective lenders. So I had a couple brokers source me proposals, while I sourced some proposals from banks directly. In the end a broker was able to find me the most attractive terms.

Reply by a lender
from University of Wyoming in Phoenix, AZ, USA

I think it is a strong deal and seem pretty easy to close you get a broker to shop rate and terms. If it is a tough deal and possibly has some difficulties you might want to go direct to the lenders and focus on smaller ones where you can talk to the credit committee or decision makers. My bank will set up calls with the borrowers to get comfortable with them.

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