Best SBA Lenders in Winston Salem, NC (2026)
2025 FOIA data: top lenders, rates & industries for Winston Salem SBA loans
SBA Loans in Winston Salem, North Carolina
Looking for an SBA loan in Winston Salem, North Carolina? Based on 2025 FOIA data, 39 SBA 7(a) loans were funded in Winston Salem totaling $25.4M, supporting an estimated 263 jobs. With 23 active lenders competing for business in the Winston Salem market, comparing offers is essential to getting the best rate and terms.
The average SBA loan in Winston Salem is $651K at an average rate of 10.33%. The top lender in Winston Salem is Live Oak Banking Company, with the most-funded industry being All Other Personal Services. See all North Carolina SBA lenders for statewide rankings.
SBA Loans in Winston Salem by Business Type
Whether you’re starting a new business in Winston Salem, buying an existing one, or expanding your current operation, here’s how SBA lending breaks down in your market:
Startups represent 17% of SBA loans in Winston Salem (9 loans funded in 2025), which tells you how comfortable local lenders are funding new ventures without established operating history. Business acquisitions account for 42% (6 loans) — if you’re looking to buy a business in Winston Salem, this is a proven use case for SBA financing. Existing businesses make up 32% and typically receive the most favorable terms.
Top SBA Lenders in Winston Salem, NC (2025 Data)
The table below ranks every SBA 7(a) lender that funded loans to Winston Salem businesses in 2025, ordered by total dollar volume. This data comes directly from SBA FOIA records:
| # | Lender | Volume | Loans | Avg Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Live Oak Banking Company | $5.9M | 4 | 9.94% |
| 2 | The Huntington National Bank | $5.2M | 4 | 9.6% |
| 3 | U.S. Bank, National Association | $3.1M | 3 | 9.61% |
| 4 | Evolve Bank and Trust | $2.7M | 1 | 10.25% |
| 5 | United Community Bank | $1.8M | 1 | 8.25% |
| 6 | The Fidelity Bank | $670K | 1 | 9.75% |
| 7 | PNC Bank, National Association | $655K | 1 | 6.5% |
| 8 | Northeast Bank | $640K | 6 | 10.92% |
| 9 | First Commonwealth Bank | $500K | 1 | 10.25% |
| 10 | Bank of Oak Ridge | $500K | 1 | 10% |
The top lenders in Winston Salem have direct experience with local businesses and understand the Winston Salem 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 Winston Salem 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 Winston Salem
One 5-minute application. 23+ lenders competing for your deal. GoSBA matches you to the best fit — free, no obligation.
Top Industries Funded in Winston Salem
These are the industries that received the most SBA 7(a) funding in Winston Salem 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 |
|---|---|---|
| All Other Personal Services | 3 | $4.7M |
| All Other Specialty Trade Contractors | 2 | $3.1M |
| Residential Mental Retardation Facilities | 1 | $2.7M |
| Sports and Recreation Instruction | 1 | $1.8M |
| Residential Remodelers | 3 | $900K |
| Private Mail Centers | 2 | $762K |
| Beauty Salons | 2 | $687K |
| Offices of Chiropractors | 1 | $655K |
| Other Personal Care Services | 2 | $550K |
| Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers | 2 | $540K |
Lenders with experience funding your specific industry in Winston Salem 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 Winston Salem
Option 1: Apply directly to one of the top Winston Salem 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 Winston Salem-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.
