From your first unit to a multi-unit portfolio — Apex Funding Partners specializes in placing SBA 7(a) and 504 financing for franchisees across every major brand category. We know the SBA Franchise Directory, FDD underwriting, and which lenders close franchise deals fastest.
Apply for Financing Submit a Client Deal →The franchise financing market is one of the most structured and lender-friendly segments in SBA lending. The SBA maintains a Franchise Directory of over 4,000 pre-approved brands — meaning eligible deals skip an extra review step that adds 2–4 weeks for non-franchise applicants.
Most banks treat franchise loans like any other small business application. We don’t. We understand Item 7 of the FDD (estimated initial investment), Item 19 financial performance representations, AUV benchmarks by brand, and DSCR underwriting for franchise cash flows — and we package your deal accordingly.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer opening a fitness studio or a multi-unit operator expanding your portfolio, we match your deal to the lender whose credit appetite, deal size, and brand familiarity fit you best.
Every capital need across the franchise lifecycle — packaged and placed with the right lender.
Startup financing for first-time franchisees including FF&E, leasehold improvements, signage, and working capital.
ADA and sequential unit financing for proven operators ready to scale. We understand the cash flow dynamics of running multiple locations.
Acquiring an existing unit from a selling operator — goodwill, FF&E, and working capital structured for a clean transition.
Mandatory brand refresh capital tied to franchise agreement renewal obligations. Often underserved by banks — we know how to package it.
Revolving credit for seasonal operators and inventory-heavy franchise models.
Financing strategy for operators running multiple brands or combining franchise and independent units.
SBA franchise underwriting looks at the same core factors for every deal. Here’s what lenders need to see.
Your franchise brand must appear on the SBA Franchise Directory. We confirm this at intake — over 4,200 brands are pre-approved.
Debt Service Coverage Ratio of 1.25x or higher. We calculate this from your personal and business cash flow before you ever submit to a lender.
Most SBA franchise lenders want a 680+ personal FICO. We work with borrowers in the 650–679 range when compensating factors are strong.
SBA requires the borrower to inject 10–20% of the total project cost. This can come from cash, ROBS (retirement funds), or gifted equity.
You should have reviewed your Franchise Disclosure Document — specifically Items 5, 6, 7, 19, and 21 — before applying.
Personal and business (if applicable) tax returns for the last 2 years, plus a current Personal Financial Statement.
Submit your application in under 5 minutes. We’ll confirm SBA eligibility and lender options within 48 hours.
Apply for Financing → Submit a Client Deal