SBA Waives Loan Fees for Small Manufacturers in 2026: What It Means for American Industry
September 29th, 2025
SBA Announces Fee Relief for Small Manufacturers
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a one-year initiative to reduce financing costs for small manufacturers. From October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026, the agency will waive most upfront loan fees for businesses classified under NAICS codes 31–33 .
The changes include:
- 7(a) Manufacturing Loans (up to $950,000): No upfront fee .
- 504 Manufacturing Loans: No upfront fee and no annual service fee .
As a result, small manufacturers will have more capital available for hiring, production, equipment purchases, and facility expansions.
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler explained, “98% of U.S. manufacturers are small businesses – and by reducing loan fees, the SBA is eliminating barriers to capital so they can invest those dollars back into the mission of rebuilding America’s industrial base.”
It is important to note that the SBA specifies the waiver applies to “most upfront fees,” and eligibility is limited to manufacturing businesses classified under NAICS codes 31–33.
New Loan Options for Manufacturers
In addition, the SBA introduced the Manufacturers’ Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) Loan Program, effective October 1, 2025 . As announced, MARC as its first loan program dedicated solely to small manufacturers .
Unlike traditional loans, MARC offers flexible financing. For example, manufacturers can access revolving lines of credit or structured term loans . Therefore, this program may help companies manage cash flow, invest in new technologies, and expand their workforce.
While the SBA has confirmed the launch of the MARC program, details such as loan caps (for example, a $5 million maximum) and guarantee percentages have been reported by secondary sources. These figures should be viewed as expected rather than final until the SBA publishes full program guidelines.
What This Means for Charlotte County Manufacturers
For Charlotte County, Florida, this initiative creates new opportunities. Eligible local businesses may now:
- Invest in equipment for advanced manufacturing and aerospace operations at Punta Gorda Airport (PGD).
- Expand facilities in industrial areas such as Murdock Village and ECAP sites.
- Hire and train workers through programs at Charlotte Technical College (CTC), Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW), and Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU).
- Strengthen supply chains while competing for reshoring opportunities.
These examples highlight local applications; however, the SBA program is national in scope. Charlotte County manufacturers will benefit only if they meet SBA eligibility criteria, including size standards, NAICS codes, and lender participation.
Workforce and Economic Development Benefits
Charlotte County Economic Development continues to strengthen its advanced manufacturing sector. The SBA’s fee relief and MARC loan program align with local initiatives and regional workforce training partnerships.
Consequently, the community stands to gain:
- Reduced barriers for expanding manufacturers.
- More local jobs in high-skill, high-demand fields.
- A stronger position as a competitive, pro-business location for investment.
How to Get Started
Manufacturers can use the SBA Lender Match portal to connect with lenders offering 7(a) and 504 funding . Furthermore, companies interested in MARC loans should consult SBA resources and local financial institutions as the program launches in October 2025 .
FAQs
1. Who is eligible for the SBA loan fee waiver?
Small manufacturers under NAICS 31–33 may qualify for waived fees on select loans in FY 2026 .
2. How long does the waiver last?
It runs from October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026 .
3. What is the MARC Loan Program?
The Manufacturers’ Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) program offers flexible capital, including revolving credit and term loan options .
4. How does this impact Charlotte County?
Eligible manufacturers can expand facilities, purchase equipment, and hire workers, supporting the region’s advanced manufacturing growth (local extrapolation).
5. How can businesses apply?
Through the SBA Lender Match portal or by working with Certified Development Companies (CDCs) and approved SBA lenders .
Sources
- SBA Press Release: “SBA Waives Loan Fees for Small Manufacturers in Fiscal Year 2026” (Sept. 18, 2025)
- SBA Press Release: “SBA Launches First-Ever Loan Program Dedicated to American Manufacturers” (Sept. 3, 2025)
- Manufacturing Dive: “SBA unveils MARC loan program for small manufacturers” (Sept. 2025)
