About this programme
CDC Small Business Finance is a nonprofit lender headquartered in San Diego, part of the Momentus Capital family of organizations. It has been lending since 1978 and describes itself as "more flexible than a bank" with no hidden fees, having financed $20.9 billion, helped 12,700 business owners and supported 253,500 jobs to date.
It is a designated SBA lender, primarily known for SBA 504 commercial real estate loans, and also offers smaller working-capital loans directly to small businesses. It lends in California and other states, not just San Diego.
How it works
SBA 504 Commercial Real Estate Loans run from $250,000 to $30 million or more, with 10-, 20- or 25-year terms, used to buy, build or refinance owner-occupied commercial real estate. As of September 10, 2026, published rates ranged from about 6.28% (20-year manufacturing) to 6.60% (10-year standard), and CDC offers prequalification within 24 hours.
Small Business Loans run $30,000 to $350,000 for working capital and general small business financing, with interest rates starting at Prime plus 2.75%. CDC says it looks at a business's whole story, not just the numbers, when underwriting.
Who can apply
The business must be seeking financing for working capital (Small Business Loans) or for owner-occupied commercial real estate purchase, construction or refinancing (SBA 504 loans).
Because SBA 504 loans are an SBA product, borrowers generally need to meet standard SBA size and use-of-proceeds rules, though the page itself does not spell those out in detail.
How to apply
- Apply online through CDC's small business loan application page, or start with the loan calculator to estimate payments.
- Connect with a CDC loan expert or small business advisor to discuss which loan product fits your needs.
- For SBA 504 loans, request prequalification, which CDC says it can turn around within 24 hours.
Frequently asked
What is the difference between CDC's two main loan products?
Small Business Loans are working-capital loans from $30,000 to $350,000 at rates starting at Prime plus 2.75%. SBA 504 loans are much larger, $250,000 to $30 million or more, specifically for owner-occupied commercial real estate, with 10-, 20- or 25-year terms.
How fast can I get prequalified for an SBA 504 loan?
CDC says prequalification is available within 24 hours.
Does CDC only lend in San Diego?
No. CDC is headquartered in San Diego but lends more broadly, including elsewhere in California.
Who do I talk to about applying?
You can call CDC at 800-611-5170, use the online loan application, or connect with a loan expert or small business advisor listed on cdcloans.com.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.