SBA Approves First MARC Loans for U.S. Manufacturers

The SBA's MARC program is no longer just a promise—it's now delivering real capital to real manufacturers. On December 17, 2025, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced approval of its first 7(a) Manufacturers' Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) loans, totaling $3.5 million in working capital for four American manufacturers.

This milestone marks a significant moment for domestic manufacturing. MARC is the first SBA loan program ever created exclusively for manufacturers, and today's announcement proves the program is operational and funding is flowing through community and regional banks across the country.

The First MARC Loan Recipients

While the SBA hasn't disclosed company names, they've shared details about the initial approvals:

• A welding and fabrication firm received a $1.5 million line of credit
• A porcelain enamel manufacturer received a $250,000 working capital facility
• Two additional manufacturers received funding (amounts not specified)
• Total first-round approvals: $3.5 million across four manufacturers

These loans were deployed through community and regional banks—the same types of lenders that have historically served manufacturing businesses. The program is designed to work within existing banking relationships while providing the SBA guarantee that makes larger working capital facilities possible.

What This Means for Manufacturers

SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler framed the announcement in the context of broader reshoring trends: '98% of manufacturers are small businesses...with the fair trade agenda, they are preparing for a new golden era' of job creation and expansion as domestic manufacturing returns to American shores.

For manufacturers considering MARC financing, today's news confirms several important points:

The Program Is Live and Operational

MARC isn't vapor-ware or a future promise. Lenders are trained, applications are being processed, and capital is being deployed. If you've been waiting to see whether the program would actually launch, the answer is clear: it has.

Community Banks Are Participating

The first loans came through community and regional banks—not just the largest national lenders. This suggests broad lender adoption and means manufacturers with existing community bank relationships may be able to access MARC through their current banking partners.

Loan Sizes Vary Based on Need

The initial approvals ranged from $250,000 to $1.5 million, demonstrating the program's flexibility. Whether you need a modest working capital facility or are approaching the $5 million maximum, MARC can accommodate various capital requirements.

MARC Program Quick Facts

For manufacturers unfamiliar with the program, here's what MARC offers:

• Maximum loan amount: Up to $5 million in working capital
• Loan structures: Term loans (up to 10 years) or revolving lines of credit
• Eligibility: U.S. manufacturers in NAICS codes 31-33
• Debt service coverage: Relaxed 1:1 ratio (vs. 1.25:1 for standard 7(a))
• Stackable: Can combine with other SBA 7(a), 504, and conventional loans
• FY2026 bonus: Fee waivers available for manufacturers

Our comprehensive guide to the SBA MARC program covers eligibility requirements, loan terms, interest rates, and the application process in detail.

Timing: Why Now Is the Right Moment

The first MARC approvals come at an opportune time for manufacturers. Several factors are converging:

FY2026 Fee Waivers

The SBA has announced fee waivers for manufacturers in NAICS codes 31-33 for Fiscal Year 2026. On a $3 million loan, this could save over $75,000 in upfront guaranty fees. Manufacturers applying now can potentially benefit from these savings.

Loan Limits May Double

The Made in America Manufacturing Finance Act (H.R. 3174) passed the House unanimously and would double SBA loan limits for manufacturers from $5 million to $10 million. While awaiting Senate action, manufacturers can establish relationships and access current limits now, then potentially expand financing when enhanced limits become available.

Reshoring Momentum

Trade policy shifts and supply chain resilience concerns are driving increased demand for domestic manufacturing. Manufacturers positioned with adequate working capital can capture contracts that might otherwise go to foreign competitors.

How to Access MARC Financing

If today's news has you considering MARC for your manufacturing operation, here's how to move forward:

1. Confirm Eligibility

MARC is exclusively for manufacturers with primary NAICS codes in sectors 31, 32, or 33. Our NAICS eligibility guide can help you verify your classification and understand what qualifies.

2. Assess Your Working Capital Needs

MARC funds can be used for inventory, payroll, accounts receivable financing, seasonal buildups, and general operational working capital. Fixed asset purchases require separate financing through standard 7(a) or 504 programs.

3. Prepare Documentation

Standard requirements include three years of business tax returns, interim financial statements, personal financial statements for owners with 20%+ ownership, and business documentation including NAICS code verification.

4. Work with an Experienced Partner

MARC is new, and not all lenders have experience with the program yet. Working with a broker who specializes in manufacturing SBA financing can connect you with lenders who understand the program and can structure your application correctly.

The Bottom Line

Today's announcement transforms MARC from concept to reality. Four American manufacturers now have $3.5 million in new working capital to support their operations, and the pathway is open for others to follow.

At Precision Growth Capital, we've been preparing for this moment since MARC was announced. We specialize exclusively in SBA financing for manufacturers and can help you navigate the MARC application process, identify the right lenders, and structure financing that supports your growth objectives.

Our consultation is free, and we operate on a no-success, no-fee basis. If you don't get funded, you pay nothing.