This free, one-hour virtual session is designed to help small business owners understand what it takes to be prepared for financing. Participants will learn how lenders evaluate loan applications, what financial information must be prepared in advance, and what financing options are available to Pennsylvania small businesses.

Leveraging both Penn State University SBDC and SSBCI program services, the presenters will provide practical guidance on organizing financial statements, navigating the loan application process, and avoiding common mistakes that can delay or prevent loan approvals.

Key Topics / Learning Objectives

• Financial statements required for a loan application
• How lenders assess credit, cash flow, and repayment capacity
• Common documentation requested during the underwriting process
• Overview of loan options available to Pennsylvania small businesses, including SSBCI-supported programs
• Frequent reasons loan applications are denied or delayed — and how to address them
• How SBDC consulting and SSBCI technical assistance can support financing readiness

Who Should Attend

Small business owners, entrepreneurs, and early-stage companies planning to apply for financing within the next 3–12 months or seeking to better understand lender expectations.

Presented By

• Will Hooten, Director of SSBCI, Pennsylvania Small Business Development Center (PASBDC)
• Chelsea Blair, Business Consultant, Penn State University Small Business Development Center