About this programme
Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE) is a Georgia-based lender that has originated more than $295 million in loans to small businesses and entrepreneurs since 2000, funding over 2,950 businesses and helping create or retain more than 24,300 jobs. Alongside lending, ACE has provided more than 500,000 hours of consulting to borrowers.
ACE runs several loan products rather than a single program: Small Business Loans, Commercial Loans, a Veteran Loan Program, and South Georgia Start-Up Loans, plus a Women's Business Center in Atlanta offering bilingual (English/Spanish) coaching and training, including a program called Launch HER: From Vision to LLC.
How it works
Small Business Loans go up to $50,000 and are open to for-profit businesses that have been operating for 2 or more years.
Commercial Loans run from $50,001 to $1,000,000 for established businesses and require additional collateral.
The Veteran Loan Program offers $15,000 to $1,000,000 for military veterans and their spouses.
South Georgia Start-Up Loans go up to $50,000, limited to South Georgia service areas, and require the business to be registered with the Georgia Secretary of State plus a business plan and relevant field experience.
Interest rates move with market conditions and loan risk, and repayment terms run from 3 to 72 months depending on loan size. ACE does not charge prepayment penalties.
Who can apply
For a loan of any kind, applicants must meet all of: a minimum credit score of 600, no active bankruptcies for at least 3 years, no foreclosure within the past 12 months, current status on mortgage, rent, and vehicle payments, no tax liens or outstanding judgments, student loans in good standing, no non-medical collections within the past 6 months, and the ability to afford the additional debt payment.
Applicants must have collateral to pledge that is free and clear of any liens.
Start-up applicants must have an existing income source outside the business to cover personal expenses and anticipated business rent.
How to apply
- For loans up to $50,000, apply through ACE's online application portal.
- For loans over $50,000, contact ACE's commercial loan officers (Sandy Headley or Chris Clay) directly.
- Prepare documentation, which varies by loan amount and by whether the business is a start-up or an existing business, as detailed on the Small Business Loan and Commercial Loan product pages.
Frequently asked
What credit score do I need?
A minimum credit score of 600, along with no active bankruptcies for 3+ years and no foreclosure in the past 12 months.
Do I need collateral?
Yes. You must have collateral to pledge for the loan that is free and clear of any liens.
Does ACE charge a prepayment penalty?
No, ACE does not have any prepayment penalties on its loans.
How do I apply for a large loan?
For loans over $50,000, contact ACE's commercial loan officers directly rather than using the online portal.
Can a start-up qualify?
Yes, but a start-up applicant must have an existing income source outside the business to cover personal expenses and anticipated business rent.
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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.