If you're running a business in Florida and looking for capital in 2025, you have more than just traditional bank loans to explore. Between state programs, SBA-backed lending, CDFIs (community lenders), and local nonprofit initiatives, Florida has a diverse funding landscape.
This guide walks through small business loan options in Florida in 2025, how to qualify, and how to stack programs for maximum advantage.
Florida state government actively supports small business growth via programs like the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), disaster relief loans, and public-private community funds. Florida Jobs+1
Because of this, Florida-based businesses can sometimes access lower cost, state-guaranteed, or subsidized loans that complement SBA and private lending.
Florida recently announced an additional $167 million for small business support through SSBCI 2.0. These funds are meant to provide accessible capital, especially for minority-, veteran-, or women-owned businesses. Florida Jobs+1
The SSBCI serves as a backstop or guarantee to encourage lenders to make riskier loans. Florida Jobs
This is a short-term, zero-interest working capital loan designed to “bridge the gap” when your business is affected by disasters (storms, etc.). Florida Jobs
It offers up to $50,000 to help keep operations going while you seek long-term recovery funding. Resolve Pay+1
Originally capitalized with $40 million, this is a revolving fund that provides affordable working capital to Florida businesses. Note: the fund is now fully deployed; new liquidity becomes available as loans are repaid. Florida First Capital
Operating primarily in South Florida (Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach), this CDFI offers flexible loan terms to minority- or women-owned businesses statewide. Central County CDC
In Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties, this nonprofit lender provides loans from $5,000 to $75,000 to minority-owned businesses for working capital, equipment, inventory, etc. Gusto+1
They also offer training and technical assistance to help businesses qualify. Miami Bayside Foundation
A nontraditional lender focused on minority and small business support. They provide tailored small business loans, coaching, and capital access. BBIF (Borrowers)+1
Still the workhorse for general small business purposes: working capital, expansion, refinancing, and acquisitions. Florida banks and credit unions offer 7(a) loans. TD Bank+2Resolve Pay+2
Ideal for purchasing real estate or heavy equipment. Florida lenders participating in the 504 program help small businesses finance fixed assets with low down payments. Resolve Pay
One relevant data point: Florida First Capital reports fixed 504 loan rates — e.g. 25-year fixed standard ~ 6.008%. Florida First Capital
Up to $50,000, administered via nonprofit intermediaries. Great for startups or very small capital needs. SBA
Florida businesses affected by hurricanes or natural disasters are eligible for SBA low-interest loans. In 2025, the SBA replenished funding, enabling loans up to $2 million with deferred payments for 12 months. SBA+1
Here’s how to pick among Florida’s options:
Loan purpose matters: For working capital, go 7(a), bridge, or local CDFI. For real estate/equipment, lean toward 504 or SBA-backed fixed-asset loans.
Leverage state programs: Use SSBCI or emergency bridge loans to lower borrowing cost or reduce personal risk.
Match your geography: Many CDFIs are county- or region-based (e.g. Miami Bayside, Central County).
Stack or combine: Use state programs to guarantee or co-lend with private banks.
Check fund availability: Some state or fund programs are exhausted temporarily (e.g. Rebuild Florida). Florida First Capital
Florida-based lenders evaluate many of the same criteria as national ones, but with some local sensitivities:
Business must be registered and in good standing in Florida.
Demonstrated operating history (often 2+ years) with consistent revenue.
Strong cash flow and debt service coverage (DSCR).
Collateral or personal guarantees.
For real estate or asset loans: property value, location, and appraisal.
For disaster or bridge programs: proof of damage or disruption (storms, flood).
Credit profile (business & personal).
Prepare your documentation: tax returns, financial statements, business plan, cash flow projections.
Locate your region’s CDFIs: Use OFN’s CDFI Locator or Florida’s loan-fund directories. OFN+1
Check state program windows: SSBCI or emergency bridge loans may have application periods or caps.
Apply with multiple lenders: Try SBA, CDFI, and private bank routes to find the best terms.
Negotiate structure: Look for lower down payment, longer terms, or interest subsidies.
Maintain communication: Many state funds want to see that your business has ongoing viability.
Florida First Capital (SBA / 504 lender with published fixed rates) Florida First Capital
Miami Bayside Foundation (CDFI loan fund for minority businesses) Miami Bayside Foundation+1
Central County CDFI / Small Business Loan Fund (South Florida) Central County CDC
BBIF Florida (nonprofit business finance + coaching) BBIF (Borrowers)
TD Bank (active in Florida, as a preferred SBA lender) TD Bank+1
Grow America SOAR Fund (loans up to $100,000 for small businesses in Florida & the South) Grow America
Some state funds (like Rebuild Florida) may temporarily be depleted until repaid. Florida First Capital
Technology, sector, or location risk — lenders may discount future earning potential in volatile markets.
Overdependence on guarantees or grant-backed funds can delay decisions.
Real estate appraisals and valuations in Florida can be fickle due to environmental or regulatory risk.
For coastal or disaster-prone areas, insurance, flood risk, and climate exposure will get close scrutiny.