Big news for America’s makers!***
On September 18, SBA announced it will waive most upfront and annual fees on its two flagship loan programs—the 7(a) and 504 for small manufacturers in FY 2026.
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7(a): Loans up to $950,000 will have 0% upfront guaranty fee
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504: Both upfront and annual service fees are waived
Who benefits?
Small manufacturers across NAICS 31–33. That’s almost the entire backbone of U.S. manufacturing.
Why it matters:
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Manufacturing makes up nearly 98% of small businesses in the sector
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These waivers reduce borrowing costs at a time when capital is expensive
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It’s directly aligned with the “Made in America” push to strengthen domestic supply chains and reduce reliance on foreign inputs
The real impact:
This isn’t just about saving a few points on fees. It’s about freeing up capital that can be reinvested in:
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Expanding production capacity
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Upgrading equipment
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Hiring more skilled workers
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Building resilience in supply chains
How to act:
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Use SBA’s Lender Match portal to connect with lenders offering these loans
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Check eligibility under your NAICS code (31–33)
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Explore the new MARC (Manufacturers’ Access to Revolving Credit) program for working capital flexibility
My take: SBA is showing real commitment to U.S. manufacturers. FY26 isn’t just about waived fees it’s a chance for small firms to reinvest, expand, and lead the Made in America push. If you’re in this space, FY26 is the year to make SBA financing work harder for you.
Sources: SBA Waives Loan Fees for Small Manufacturers in Fiscal Year 2026 | Markets Insider