Export Loans: Types & Uses

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Expanding into international markets can be a powerful growth strategy for small and mid-sized businesses—but it often requires access to specialized financing. Export loans are designed to support businesses as they enter or grow in global markets, helping them manage cash flow, production, and risk.

 

We help you understand which export financing options are right for your business and how to access them.

 

SBA Export Loan Programs

Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

 

1. Export Express Loan

Loan Amount: Up to $500,000

 

Best For: Small exporters needing quick access to funds for export development

 

Use Cases:

 

• Translating marketing materials

• Attending international trade shows

• Purchasing inventory or equipment

 

2. Export Working Capital Program (EWCP)

Loan Amount: Up to $5 million (90% guarantee)

 

Best For: Businesses needing short-term working capital to fulfill export orders

 

Use Cases:

 

• Pre-shipment financing (raw materials, labor)

• Post-shipment financing (accounts receivable)

• Standby letters of credit

 

3. International Trade Loan (ITL)

Loan Amount: Up to $5 million

 

Best For: Exporters expanding operations or recovering from import competition

 

Use Cases:

 

• Purchasing real estate or equipment

• Refinancing debt

• Permanent working capital

 

EXIM Bank Export Financing

Offered through the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM)

 

4. EXIM Working Capital Guarantee

Loan Amount: Varies

 

Best For: Exporters needing private lender financing with EXIM backing

 

Use Cases:

 

• Inventory and production

• Fulfillment of export orders

• Longer payment terms to foreign buyers

 

Private Export Financing Options

Financing offered by banks, lenders, and alternative financing firms

 

5. Export Factoring

Sell foreign receivables to a lender in exchange for upfront cash

 

Best For: Businesses with foreign customers on payment terms

 

Use Cases: Working capital, risk mitigation, and collection support

 

6. Trade Finance Lines of Credit

Flexible credit lines tailored for ongoing import/export needs

 

Best For: High-volume exporters needing recurring financing

 

Use Cases: Inventory, production, freight, and customs expenses

 

7. Purchase Order (PO) Financing

Lender pays suppliers directly once an export PO is received

 

Best For: Cash-constrained exporters with strong sales

 

Use Cases: Supplier payments, order fulfillment, rapid scaling

 

8. Structured Export Finance

Custom financial structures for complex or large international deals

 

Best For: Infrastructure, manufacturing, or energy exporters

 

Use Cases: Large-scale contracts, long-term projects, multi-party financing

 

Which Export Loan Is Right for You?

The right option depends on your:

 

• Stage of international growth

• Cash flow needs

• Risk profile

• Type of export transaction

 

Let’s Build Your Export Finance Strategy

At SBA Business Consultant, we guide you through:

 

• Understanding your options

• Preparing documentation

• Navigating lender relationships

• Structuring your loan for success

 

Ready to expand globally? Contact Us.

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