Best SBA Lenders in Berkeley, CA (2026)
2025 FOIA data: top lenders, rates & industries for Berkeley SBA loans
SBA Loans in Berkeley, California
Looking for an SBA loan in Berkeley, California? Based on 2025 FOIA data, 34 SBA 7(a) loans were funded in Berkeley totaling $19.6M, supporting an estimated 243 jobs. With 21 active lenders competing for business in the Berkeley market, comparing offers is essential to getting the best rate and terms.
The average SBA loan in Berkeley is $577K at an average rate of 10.27%. The top lender in Berkeley is Royal Business Bank, with the most-funded industry being Janitorial Services. See all California SBA lenders for statewide rankings.
SBA Loans in Berkeley by Business Type
Whether you’re starting a new business in Berkeley, buying an existing one, or expanding your current operation, here’s how SBA lending breaks down in your market:
Startups represent 9% of SBA loans in Berkeley (5 loans funded in 2025), which tells you how comfortable local lenders are funding new ventures without established operating history. Business acquisitions account for 16% (3 loans) — if you’re looking to buy a business in Berkeley, this is a proven use case for SBA financing. Existing businesses make up 74% and typically receive the most favorable terms.
Top SBA Lenders in Berkeley, CA (2025 Data)
The table below ranks every SBA 7(a) lender that funded loans to Berkeley businesses in 2025, ordered by total dollar volume. This data comes directly from SBA FOIA records:
| # | Lender | Volume | Loans | Avg Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Business Bank | $4.9M | 1 | 7.75% |
| 2 | Northeast Bank | $2.1M | 8 | 11.09% |
| 3 | Climate First Bank | $2.0M | 2 | 10% |
| 4 | Live Oak Banking Company | $1.9M | 1 | 7.74% |
| 5 | Western Alliance Bank | $1.9M | 2 | 9% |
| 6 | Plumas Bank | $1.3M | 1 | 7.75% |
| 7 | Meadows Bank | $890K | 1 | 9% |
| 8 | U.S. Bank, National Association | $792K | 2 | 8.86% |
| 9 | Mortgage Capital Development Corporation | $700K | 2 | 10.25% |
| 10 | Five Star Bank | $535K | 1 | 10.25% |
The top lenders in Berkeley have direct experience with local businesses and understand the Berkeley 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 Berkeley 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 Berkeley
One 5-minute application. 21+ lenders competing for your deal. GoSBA matches you to the best fit — free, no obligation.
Top Industries Funded in Berkeley
These are the industries that received the most SBA 7(a) funding in Berkeley 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Janitorial Services | 2 | $2.0M |
| Offices of Dentists | 1 | $1.9M |
| Snack and Nonalcoholic Beverage Bars | 4 | $1.3M |
| Child Day Care Services | 1 | $1.3M |
| Marketing Consulting Services | 3 | $1.1M |
| Limited-Service Restaurants | 3 | $900K |
| Automotive Body, Paint, and Interior Repair and Maintenance | 1 | $890K |
| Used Car Dealers | 2 | $606K |
| Offices of Real Estate Agents and Brokers | 1 | $552K |
| Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services | 1 | $385K |
Lenders with experience funding your specific industry in Berkeley 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 Berkeley
Option 1: Apply directly to one of the top Berkeley 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 Berkeley-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
How many SBA loans were funded in Berkeley in 2025?
Can I get an SBA loan to start a business in Berkeley?
Who is the top SBA lender in Berkeley?
What is the average SBA loan rate in Berkeley?
Ready to Apply for an SBA Loan in Berkeley?
50+ lenders competing for your deal. Better rates, faster closing. No fees.
Data from SBA 7(a) FOIA records, Calendar Year 2025. Visit sba.gov for official info.
