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Glossary · The loan itself

Religious organization

In short

Businesses or organizations whose primary purpose is religious teaching, worship, or proselytization are generally ineligible for SBA loans.

What it means in a deal

If you're looking at a business with a religious affiliation, the key is whether it operates as a secular for-profit entity providing goods or services to the public, or if its primary mission is religious. Most churches, synagogues, and mosques are ineligible. Some religiously-affiliated businesses might be eligible if they meet specific criteria.

Official sources

13 CFR Part 120 — Business Loans

Office of the Federal Register · Federal regulation

Last checked 2026-06-15. Official sources control — verify before relying on any rule for a live deal.

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Common questions about Religious organization

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Defined by CapBench SBA Intelligence — plain-English definitions for business buyers, lenders, advisors, and AI agents, grounded in public SBA rules and records. Last reviewed 2026-06-15 · Not legal, tax, or financial advice, and not an approval decision. Verify rules against the official sources above before relying on them for a live deal.

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