FUNDING & BUSINESS ASSISTANCE

Find the right capital and guidance

Use trusted Arkansas and federal resources to prepare for financing, compare programs and connect with advisers who understand small business. Availability and eligibility change, so confirm current terms with each program.

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Choose your starting point

1

Prepare to meet a lender

Clarify how much capital you need, how it will be used and how the business will repay it. Build a business plan, projections and a clear funding request.

2

Compare financing programs

Review conventional lending, SBA-backed loans, microloans and Arkansas credit-support programs. Terms and eligibility vary by lender and program.

3

Check incentives and rural programs

Some projects may qualify for state incentives or USDA Rural Development programs based on location, job creation, industry and project type.

4

Get guidance before applying

Connect with ASBTDC or the appropriate program office early. An adviser can help you assess fit and prepare stronger application materials.

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Trusted funding resources

Start with the organization that best matches your project and stage of business.

Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development CenterNo-cost confidential consulting, market research and help preparing a funding request.SBA loans and Lender MatchCompare 7(a), 504 and microloan pathways and connect with participating lenders.Arkansas Small Business Revolving Loan Guaranty ProgramA state loan-guarantee program used through participating financial institutions.Arkansas small-business incentivesReview current state incentives and confirm eligibility before committing project costs.USDA Rural Development in ArkansasExplore financing and technical-assistance programs for eligible rural businesses and projects.Start and operate a hospitality businessReturn to permits, compliance and operating resources.

Talk with an adviser first

A confidential conversation with ASBTDC or the appropriate program office can help you assess fit and prepare a stronger application. AHA can help hospitality operators find the right starting point.

Find an ASBTDC centerAsk AHA

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Prepare a stronger funding request

Gather the information a lender or program office is likely to request:

✓Amount requested and specific use of funds

✓Business plan or project summary

✓Recent financial statements and tax returns

✓Revenue and cash-flow projections

✓Ownership, credit and collateral information requested by the lender

✓Project location, timeline and employment impact

Important: AHA does not make lending or grant decisions. Program terms, deadlines and eligibility change. Confirm current details directly with the funding organization.
Last reviewed: September 2026