Best SBA Lenders in Bethlehem, PA (2026)
2025 FOIA data: top lenders, rates & industries for Bethlehem SBA loans
SBA Loans in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
Looking for an SBA loan in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania? Based on 2025 FOIA data, 34 SBA 7(a) loans were funded in Bethlehem totaling $17.2M, supporting an estimated 455 jobs. With 19 active lenders competing for business in the Bethlehem market, comparing offers is essential to getting the best rate and terms.
The average SBA loan in Bethlehem is $506K at an average rate of 10.76%. The top lender in Bethlehem is Brookline Bank, a Division of Beacon Bank and Trust, with the most-funded industry being Surveying and Mapping (except Geophysical) Services. See all Pennsylvania SBA lenders for statewide rankings.
SBA Loans in Bethlehem by Business Type
Whether you’re starting a new business in Bethlehem, buying an existing one, or expanding your current operation, here’s how SBA lending breaks down in your market:
Startups represent 20% of SBA loans in Bethlehem (8 loans funded in 2025), which tells you how comfortable local lenders are funding new ventures without established operating history. Business acquisitions account for 49% (5 loans) — if you’re looking to buy a business in Bethlehem, this is a proven use case for SBA financing. Existing businesses make up 30% and typically receive the most favorable terms.
Top SBA Lenders in Bethlehem, PA (2025 Data)
The table below ranks every SBA 7(a) lender that funded loans to Bethlehem businesses in 2025, ordered by total dollar volume. This data comes directly from SBA FOIA records:
| # | Lender | Volume | Loans | Avg Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brookline Bank, a Division of Beacon Bank and Trust | $4.4M | 1 | 9.75% |
| 2 | Truist Bank | $4.1M | 2 | 9.25% |
| 3 | Meridian Bank | $1.4M | 2 | 9.88% |
| 4 | Community Bank & Trust-West Georgia | $1.1M | 1 | 10.25% |
| 5 | Seacoast National Bank | $998K | 1 | 8% |
| 6 | Financial Resources Federal Credit Union | $960K | 1 | 9.75% |
| 7 | The Huntington National Bank | $741K | 3 | 10.25% |
| 8 | Fidelity Deposit and Discount Bank | $650K | 1 | 7.5% |
| 9 | Lendistry SBLC, LLC | $553K | 2 | 12% |
| 10 | Readycap Lending, LLC | $550K | 2 | 12.12% |
The top lenders in Bethlehem have direct experience with local businesses and understand the Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem
One 5-minute application. 19+ lenders competing for your deal. GoSBA matches you to the best fit — free, no obligation.
Top Industries Funded in Bethlehem
These are the industries that received the most SBA 7(a) funding in Bethlehem 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Surveying and Mapping (except Geophysical) Services | 1 | $4.4M |
| Engineering Services | 2 | $4.1M |
| Offices of Mental Health Practitioners (except Physicians) | 4 | $1.9M |
| Electrical Apparatus and Equipment, Wiring Supplies, and Related Equip | 2 | $1.4M |
| Limited-Service Restaurants | 1 | $998K |
| All Other Miscellaneous Schools and Instruction | 3 | $741K |
| All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | 1 | $500K |
| Marketing Consulting Services | 1 | $300K |
| Insurance Agencies and Brokerages | 1 | $253K |
| Administrative Management and General Management Consulting Services | 1 | $150K |
Lenders with experience funding your specific industry in Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem
Option 1: Apply directly to one of the top Bethlehem 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 Bethlehem-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.
