Best SBA Lenders in Clearwater, FL (2026)
2025 FOIA data: top lenders, rates & industries for Clearwater SBA loans
SBA Loans in Clearwater, Florida
Looking for an SBA loan in Clearwater, Florida? Based on 2025 FOIA data, 45 SBA 7(a) loans were funded in Clearwater totaling $26.2M, supporting an estimated 359 jobs. With 27 active lenders competing for business in the Clearwater market, comparing offers is essential to getting the best rate and terms.
The average SBA loan in Clearwater is $582K at an average rate of 10.54%. The top lender in Clearwater is Celtic Bank Corporation, with the most-funded industry being Homes for the Elderly. See all Florida SBA lenders for statewide rankings.
SBA Loans in Clearwater by Business Type
Whether you’re starting a new business in Clearwater, buying an existing one, or expanding your current operation, here’s how SBA lending breaks down in your market:
Startups represent 3% of SBA loans in Clearwater (2 loans funded in 2025), which tells you how comfortable local lenders are funding new ventures without established operating history. Business acquisitions account for 33% (8 loans) — if you’re looking to buy a business in Clearwater, this is a proven use case for SBA financing. Existing businesses make up 41% and typically receive the most favorable terms.
Top SBA Lenders in Clearwater, FL (2025 Data)
The table below ranks every SBA 7(a) lender that funded loans to Clearwater businesses in 2025, ordered by total dollar volume. This data comes directly from SBA FOIA records:
| # | Lender | Volume | Loans | Avg Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Celtic Bank Corporation | $4.4M | 2 | 9.62% |
| 2 | First Internet Bank of Indiana | $2.6M | 3 | 10.5% |
| 3 | Truliant FCU | $2.5M | 1 | 10.25% |
| 4 | The Huntington National Bank | $2.5M | 2 | 8.88% |
| 5 | Newtek Bank, National Association | $2.0M | 5 | 10.74% |
| 6 | Live Oak Banking Company | $1.9M | 3 | 9.16% |
| 7 | Harvest Small Business Finance, LLC | $1.5M | 2 | 9.88% |
| 8 | Byline Bank | $990K | 1 | 10.5% |
| 9 | HomeTrust Bank | $891K | 1 | 10.25% |
| 10 | United Midwest Savings Bank National Association | $845K | 1 | 10.5% |
The top lenders in Clearwater have direct experience with local businesses and understand the Clearwater market — commercial real estate values, local industry dynamics, and regional economic conditions. Pay attention to the “Avg Rate” column, as rates vary significantly between lenders. A 0.5-1.0% rate difference on a $500K loan translates to $15,000-$30,000 in savings over the life of the loan.
Don’t limit your search to banks listed above — many national SBA lenders also fund loans in Clearwater and may offer better rates. An SBA loan broker like GoSBA gives you access to both local and national lenders with one application.
Get Matched with the Best SBA Lender in Clearwater
One 5-minute application. 27+ lenders competing for your deal. GoSBA matches you to the best fit — free, no obligation.
Top Industries Funded in Clearwater
These are the industries that received the most SBA 7(a) funding in Clearwater in 2025. If your business is in one of these sectors, lenders are already familiar with your business model and may offer faster approvals:
| Industry | Loans | Volume |
|---|---|---|
| Homes for the Elderly | 1 | $2.6M |
| Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services | 1 | $2.5M |
| Other Services Related to Advertising | 2 | $2.5M |
| Full-Service Restaurants | 3 | $2.3M |
| Offices of Dentists | 2 | $1.8M |
| Offices of Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapists, and Audiologi | 1 | $1.8M |
| Wholesale Trade Agents and Brokers | 1 | $990K |
| General Automotive Repair | 1 | $891K |
| Offices of Chiropractors | 1 | $845K |
| Offices of Physicians (except Mental Health Specialists) | 1 | $835K |
Lenders with experience funding your specific industry in Clearwater understand the local competitive landscape, typical revenue ranges, and seasonal patterns. This familiarity often translates to faster underwriting and more competitive terms. If your industry doesn’t appear above, SBA loans are available for nearly every legal business type — an SBA broker can match you with lenders who specialize in your sector.
How to Get an SBA Loan in Clearwater
Option 1: Apply directly to one of the top Clearwater lenders listed above. You’ll receive a single quote from one bank.
Option 2: Use an SBA loan broker (recommended). GoSBA Loans submits your application to multiple Clearwater-active lenders and national SBA lenders simultaneously. More offers means better rates, faster approvals, and zero cost to you — lenders pay the broker fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Data from SBA 7(a) FOIA records, Calendar Year 2025. Visit sba.gov for official info.
