Recent federal lending and customs changes may give producers more flexibility to fund equipment, inventory, real estate, and exports.
Food and beverage manufacturers planning equipment purchases, facility expansions, inventory growth, or export initiatives have new financing options to consider in 2026. First American Bank works with business owners and their advisers to evaluate SBA lending programs, trade-finance solutions, and cash-flow strategies that support growth while aligning financing with a company’s investment plans and operating needs.
What Has Changed with SBA Loans?
The SBA introduced three notable changes for manufacturers in 2026: expanded access to the SBA's International Trade Loan Program, the ability to combine 7(a) and 504 financing for up to $10 million in total SBA-backed financing, and the new Manufacturers' Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) program.
Eligible manufacturers can qualify for the SBA's working capital and CAPEX financing under the International Trade Loan Program with a 90% guarantee, compared with the standard 75% guarantee generally available through 7(a). The expansion also extends to eligible businesses across parts of the food supply chain, including agriculture, production, and logistics.
Qualifying borrowers may also combine up to $5 million in 7(a) financing with up to $5 million through 504, providing access to as much as $10 million in SBA-backed financing. In addition, the new Manufacturers' Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) program can provide manufacturers with flexible working-capital financing.
Access to capital is important, but choosing the right financing structure matters just as much. Real estate and equipment often require a different approach than inventory and receivables, and repayment terms should align with the company's cash cycle and growth objectives.
How Do EXIM and Foreign-Trade Zones Fit?
Businesses that export products or rely on imported inputs should also consider two additional tools: EXIM Bank's Working Capital Guarantee and Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZs). EXIM Bank’s Working Capital Guarantee recently lowered its minimum U.S. content requirement to 10%, potentially expanding eligibility for exporters that import inputs and process, package, or assemble goods in the United States. EXIM Bank also does not have foreign ownership restrictions, making it an alternative for businesses that do not qualify for SBA financing because they are not 100% owned by U.S. citizens.
A Foreign-Trade Zone is a designated U.S. site where imported merchandise can be admitted before formal customs entry, allowing businesses to defer duty payments until goods enter U.S. commerce.
“Foreign-Trade Zones are important not only for companies that re-export imported merchandise and can avoid U.S. duties altogether, but also for importers selling products in the United States,” says Gary Goldfarb, Chief Strategy Officer at Interport Logistics. "Businesses can defer duty payments until merchandise enters U.S. commerce, and weekly entry procedures can often extend the time between delivery and duty payment by more than 30 days, depending on inventory movement and payment timing. That timing advantage can improve cash flow and may allow companies to collect on customer invoices before duties are paid."
Three Steps for Evaluating These Programs
- Check eligibility. Review NAICS classification, SBA size status, export activity, ownership requirements, and supply-chain structure.
- Match the financing term to the expense. Evaluate real estate and equipment separately from revolving needs such as inventory and receivables.
- Calculate the full financial effect. Consider duties, payment timing, supplier terms, fees, interest, and repayment requirements together.
New Resources in Context
Small businesses account for 98% of U.S. manufacturers, according to the SBA. For food and beverage companies, the 2026 changes create more options, but each program has its own eligibility requirements and economics.
Choosing the right financing strategy requires considering timing, structure, cash flow, and long-term business goals. First American Bank works with food and beverage manufacturers and their advisers to evaluate financing and trade strategies based on the needs of the business. Ready to explore your next stage of growth? Get in touch to discuss your options.
