For more than 40 years, Market Capital Lending has helped restaurateurs open, buy, and expand — part of the $375 million+ we've arranged for our clients. A restaurant is a special-use, owner-operated business, and the SBA is ideal for it: SBA loans can finance the build-out, the kitchen equipment, working capital, and the goodwill of an existing restaurant, plus higher leverage for franchises. We're a veteran-owned, SBA-approved broker. Below, here's how restaurant financing works.
Why the SBA fits restaurants
Restaurants combine a fitted-out space, expensive kitchen equipment, and a brand or reputation — a special-use profile banks often decline but the SBA supports. An SBA loan can fund the leasehold build-out or real estate, the equipment, working capital to open, and the going-concern value of an existing restaurant, with a lower down payment and long term. Franchise buildouts must typically be completed within a defined window. (Rates, approval, and terms vary by credit, collateral, loan amount, and underwriting.)
What we finance
We arrange restaurant acquisitions, build-outs and new locations, franchise deals, kitchen and equipment financing, and refinances. Buying an existing restaurant? Our business acquisition expertise and complimentary cash-flow analysis help confirm it prequalifies for SBA 7(a) financing. See also SBA loans for startups and franchises and equipment financing.
Why choose Market Capital Lending
As a veteran-owned, SBA-approved broker with a network of 40–50 lenders, 40+ years of experience, and $375M+ funded, we match your restaurant or franchise to the right lender — including the startup and build-out deals banks pass on. Start your application or call us.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use an SBA loan to buy or open a restaurant?
Yes. SBA 7(a) loans can finance a restaurant acquisition (including goodwill) or a build-out and equipment for a new location, with lower down payments than conventional financing.
Can you finance a restaurant franchise?
Yes — for franchises we can offer higher leverage (as low as 85–90% financing) plus working capital. Franchise build-outs generally must be completed within a set timeframe.
Does restaurant financing cover kitchen equipment?
Yes — equipment can be included in an SBA loan, or financed separately with equipment financing.
What if a bank declined my restaurant deal?
Common with special-use businesses. With 40–50 lenders, we can often find one that finances restaurants and franchises.