Best SBA Lenders in North Little Rock, AR (2026)
2025 FOIA data: top lenders, rates & industries for North Little Rock SBA loans
SBA Loans in North Little Rock, Arkansas
Looking for an SBA loan in North Little Rock, Arkansas? Based on 2025 FOIA data, 17 SBA 7(a) loans were funded in North Little Rock totaling $16.0M, supporting an estimated 196 jobs. With 15 active lenders competing for business in the North Little Rock market, comparing offers is essential to getting the best rate and terms.
The average SBA loan in North Little Rock is $940K at an average rate of 10.38%. The top lender in North Little Rock is Peoples Bank, with the most-funded industry being Hotels (except Casino Hotels) and Motels. See all Arkansas SBA lenders for statewide rankings.
SBA Loans in North Little Rock by Business Type
Whether you’re starting a new business in North Little Rock, buying an existing one, or expanding your current operation, here’s how SBA lending breaks down in your market:
Startups represent 34% of SBA loans in North Little Rock (3 loans funded in 2025), which tells you how comfortable local lenders are funding new ventures without established operating history. Business acquisitions account for 48% (5 loans) — if you’re looking to buy a business in North Little Rock, this is a proven use case for SBA financing. Existing businesses make up 12% and typically receive the most favorable terms.
Top SBA Lenders in North Little Rock, AR (2025 Data)
The table below ranks every SBA 7(a) lender that funded loans to North Little Rock businesses in 2025, ordered by total dollar volume. This data comes directly from SBA FOIA records:
| # | Lender | Volume | Loans | Avg Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Peoples Bank | $5.0M | 1 | 8.5% |
| 2 | First Internet Bank of Indiana | $2.7M | 2 | 10.25% |
| 3 | Live Oak Banking Company | $2.3M | 1 | 8.75% |
| 4 | Integro Bank | $1.5M | 1 | 10.5% |
| 5 | Arvest Bank | $1.2M | 1 | 8.5% |
| 6 | Centennial Bank | $987K | 2 | 10.38% |
| 7 | Fifth Third Bank | $795K | 1 | 8% |
| 8 | Southern Bancorp Bank | $711K | 1 | 8% |
| 9 | Evolve Bank and Trust | $364K | 1 | 10% |
| 10 | Newtek Bank, National Association | $150K | 1 | 11% |
The top lenders in North Little Rock have direct experience with local businesses and understand the North Little Rock 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 North Little Rock 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 North Little Rock
One 5-minute application. 15+ lenders competing for your deal. GoSBA matches you to the best fit — free, no obligation.
Top Industries Funded in North Little Rock
These are the industries that received the most SBA 7(a) funding in North Little Rock 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Hotels (except Casino Hotels) and Motels | 1 | $5.0M |
| Site Preparation Contractors | 2 | $2.7M |
| Automotive Oil Change and Lubrication Shops | 1 | $2.3M |
| Fine Arts Schools | 1 | $1.2M |
| Full-Service Restaurants | 2 | $987K |
| Offices of Dentists | 1 | $795K |
| Outpatient Mental Health and Substance Abuse Centers | 1 | $711K |
| Sign Manufacturing | 1 | $150K |
| Toy and Hobby Goods and Supplies Merchant Wholesalers | 1 | $150K |
| Insurance Agencies and Brokerages | 1 | $50K |
Lenders with experience funding your specific industry in North Little Rock 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 North Little Rock
Option 1: Apply directly to one of the top North Little Rock 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 North Little Rock-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.
