Government-Guaranteed Loans

Get local expertise and government-backed support, plus flexible terms and competitive rates to finance property, equipment, or working capital.

Government-Guaranteed Lending Options

Backing your business every step of the way.

504 Loans

Secure funds to build, buy, or renovate a building, purchase land, or acquire major equipment with long-term financing.

Learn More about Real Estate Loans

USDA Loans

Finance property, equipment, facility upgrades, and working capital with USDA-backed loans for eligible businesses in select locations.

Learn More about USDA

Other Business Loans

From partner buyouts to debt refinance, lines of credit, construction loans and more, we've got you covered with our conventional loans.

Learn More about Other Small Business

Why BayFirst?

For more than 20 years, BayFirst has been Here for What's Next® for businesses in Tampa Bay. When you choose a government-guaranteed loan from us, you get fast access to funds, expert local support, and personalized guidance from our in-house experts. We simplify the process of government-backed loans, delivering solutions designed around your business needs.

Don't just take our word for it.

Hear from business owners who think BayFirst is the best place to get a government-guaranteed loan.

Terrill Salem

T. Salem Construction, LLC

“BayFirst didn't just turn me away for funding.  They laid out a path for me and made it very personable.”

Chef Michael Baugh

Let Them Eat Cake

“We are here to help our customers with their banking needs on every level”

The BayFirst Difference

When you tap into the power of BayFirst’s government-guaranteed lending team, you can expect:

  • A streamlined process, start to finish
  • Advanced technology
  • Personalized service
  • Faster decision times
  • Quick access to your funds

Government-Guaranteed Loans FAQ

A government-guaranteed loan is a business loan that is partially backed by a federal agency, such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). While BayFirst provides the funding, the government guarantees a portion of the loan, which allows us to offer more flexible terms and approvals to qualified businesses.

Traditional loans rely solely on the bank for approval and risk. With a government guarantee, BayFirst can extend financing to businesses that may not qualify for conventional loans—often with longer repayment terms, lower down payments, and competitive rates.

Eligibility varies by program but generally includes businesses that operate for profit in the U.S., have invested equity, demonstrate repayment ability, and meet size and industry guidelines. BayFirst works with both established businesses and qualified startups.

Government-guaranteed loans can be used for a wide range of purposes, including working capital, equipment purchases, business expansion, real estate acquisitions, construction, inventory, or refinancing eligible existing debt.

Loan amounts are subject to government program limits and your business’s specific needs. BayFirst evaluates each business individually to determine the appropriate loan size.

No. BayFirst is the lender and provides the funds. The government guarantees a portion of the loan, reducing risk and enabling more favorable borrowing options.
All loans are subject to approval.