SBA rule restricts non-citizen access to certain loans
Key Questions
What is the new SBA rule restricting non-citizen access to loans?
Starting March 2026, with expansion in April, the SBA fully excludes non-citizens, including green-card holders, from certain loans. This impacts immigrant vendors like Tonantzin, Xocolate, and Trumer.
How does the SBA loan restriction affect Bay Area businesses?
The rule hits immigrant-owned vendors, with risks noted for operations like Trumer, which is selling its U.S. operation after 22 years in Berkeley. Monitor challenges, CDFIs, clinics, and advocacy efforts.
What resources are available amid the SBA loan changes?
SCORE workshops run through March 31. The SBA's Permit Me tool helps find local licensing requirements by zip code and business type, offering relief for starting businesses.
Mar2026 SBA limits fully exclude non-citizens incl. green-card holders (March start/April expansion), hitting immigrant vendors (Tonantzin/Xocolate/Trumer risk); SCORE workshops thru Mar31; Permit Me tool offers licensing relief. Monitor challenges, CDFIs, clinics, advocacy.