Small Business Financing May 2026

: Large banks have become more selective, with approval rates for small business applications dropping as low as 13% for some institutions in early 2025.

Government-backed, up to $5M, accessible for those denied elsewhere. Real estate/Equipment small business financing

: Lenders are increasingly using AI and machine learning for faster underwriting, while 56% of small businesses have adopted AI to streamline operations. : Large banks have become more selective, with

: Speed and flexibility are driving owners toward non-bank lenders. Approximately 74% of small businesses now prefer these solutions for working capital over traditional banks. up to $5M