What the SBA Franchise Directory Is — and Why It Matters
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Franchise Directory is an official list of franchise systems that meet SBA eligibility standards for lending. When your franchise brand is listed, your franchisees can qualify faster for SBA-backed loans, giving them access to capital while reducing lender uncertainty.
For franchisors, getting listed is an essential credibility milestone — one that helps attract qualified candidates and fuel sustainable growth.
Key Benefits of Being Listed on the SBA Directory
1. Streamlined Financing for Franchisees
SBA-approved lenders use the directory to verify franchise eligibility. When your brand appears on the list, loan applications move faster — no additional approvals or document reviews required.
2. Increased Credibility with Candidates and Lenders
Listing confirms that your franchise meets SBA’s standards for independence, disclosure, and small business lending — strengthening your reputation and reducing financing friction.
3. Franchise Sales Momentum
Franchisors on the SBA Directory often see more serious inquiries from candidates who rely on SBA funding to launch their business — directly impacting deal flow and system expansion.
Who Needs to Be Listed
If your franchise meets the FTC definition of a franchise, your franchisees must have your brand listed on the SBA Franchise Directory to qualify for SBA-backed financing.
The SBA applies this definition broadly — meaning that even license, dealership, or distributorship models may need to be listed if they resemble a franchise relationship.
How to Apply for the SBA Franchise Directory
The SBA reinstated the directory on June 1, 2025, with a simplified one-time certification process. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Prepare Your Submission Package
Franchisors must provide:
- A copy of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD)
- The Franchise Agreement and any related addenda
- Any other documents the franchisee would be required to sign
- The completed Franchisor Certification Form (do not sign until approved)
Step 2: Submit by Email
Email your submission package to: franchise@sba.gov
In the subject line, include: Request for Inclusion – [Your Brand Name]
Step 3: Review and Certification
The SBA will review your materials and, if approved, will ask you to execute the Franchisor Certification.
Once complete, your brand will appear in the SBA Franchise Directory — available to lenders nationwide.
Important SBA Updates for 2025
- The SBA now uses a single Franchisor Certification, eliminating the need for separate addenda for each loan.
- Franchisors previously listed before July 31, 2025 can be grandfathered in by submitting the new certification only.
- All new franchisors must complete a full application and certification to be listed.
- If material changes occur in your business model, you must notify the SBA to maintain eligibility.
What Happens After You’re Listed
Once listed:
- Franchisees can pursue SBA-backed loans without additional franchise review.
- Each SBA-funded franchise sale will require execution of the SBA Addendum to Franchise Agreement (Form 2462).
- Your brand will remain on the directory as long as you maintain compliance and submit updated certifications when required.
How The Internicola Law Firm Can Help
At The Internicola Law Firm, P.C., we help franchisors:
- Prepare and submit complete SBA Directory applications
- Align FDDs and franchise agreements with SBA eligibility standards
- Implement compliant franchise sales processes and SBA addenda
- Integrate financing strategies into franchise growth planning
Whether you’re applying for the first time or re-certifying your listing, our fixed-fee Franchise Growth Counsel program ensures your franchise legal structure and financing processes are built for growth.
Get Help Listing Your Franchise on the SBA Directory
→ Schedule a Consultation About SBA Listing and Franchise Compliance
→ Learn About Our Franchise Growth Counsel Services
SBA Franchise Directory FAQs
It’s the SBA’s official list of eligible franchise systems, confirming that a brand meets SBA lending requirements.
Yes. Franchisees can only qualify for SBA-backed loans if their franchisor is listed on the directory.
Email your package to franchise@sba.gov with your FDD, franchise agreement, and the unsigned Franchisor Certification.
Yes. Our firm prepares and submits SBA applications, updates FDDs, and manages compliance with all franchise lending standards.
Get Your Franchise Listed on the SBA Directory — the Right Way
Ready to make it easier for your franchisees to secure SBA-backed financing?
Our team helps franchisors prepare and submit SBA Franchise Directory applications, align FDDs and agreements with lending standards, and build the legal foundation that fuels growth.
→ Start your SBA Listing Consultation today.