Small-business lending rebounds in Nebraska in 2024 [Video]

Lending to small businesses in Nebraska rebounded sharply in fiscal year 2024.

According to the annual report from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the number of SBA-guaranteed loans was up more than 39% from 2023, while the total dollar amount of the loans grew by nearly 20%.

Overall, the state’s small businesses received $195.7 million in SBA-guaranteed financing, which was the third-highest amount ever recorded, trailing only 2021 and 2022.

Nebraska saw big increases in both its 7(a) lending program and the 504 loan program.

The 7(a) program, which guarantees traditional small-business loans, guaranteed 368 loans totaling $139.1 million in fiscal 2024, up from 295 loans worth $105.2 million in fiscal 2023.

The 504 program, which guarantees loans that allow businesses to buy large equipment or build, buy or expand buildings, and are facilitated through nonprofit lenders called certified development companies, saw fewer loans approved in 2024 — 23, compared with 31 …