At Guaranteed Lending Specialists (GLS) we primarily specialize in USDA Business & Industry (B&I) financing, often working with businesses trying to determine whether a USDA B&I Loan fits their business needs or if their location and project would be better served by another product, such as an SBA 504 Loan. Both programs are powerful tools, but they’re built for different purposes.
Most borrowers we work with operate or invest in and around rural communities—manufacturers, RV Parks, hospitality, industrial, and service providers. They typically need financing that covers more than real estate alone. USDA B&I shines in these scenarios because it allows for maximum flexibility.
Key Advantages of USDA B&I:
The USDA B&I Loan Program provides more flexibility for Borrowers and Lenders to tailor the structure based on individual needs. Please utilize our eligibility mapping tool and questionnaire on the blog to determine if USDA B&I is the right loan product for you.
SBA 504 loan are better suited for Borrowers procuring owner-occupied commercial real estate or heavy equipment in a location that is not eligible for USDA B&I financing. This product has a number of advantages, similar to USDA.
Key Advantages of SBA 504:
Both programs have strengths, but USDA B&I dominates when flexibility, loan size, or rural eligibility are key. SBA 504 serves borrowers best when the need is straightforward owner-occupied real estate or equipment with predictable terms. If you need a tailored recommendation or want packaging assistance for a USDA B&I submission, please don’t hesitate to reach out to ensure your deal is structured properly from day one.