# How do I apply for an SBA Export Working Capital loan?

**Short answer:** You apply through a lender. A lender with PLP-EWCP authority can decide itself. Otherwise an Export Finance Manager reviews the file and SBA's processing center decides (SOP 50 10 8.1, Appendix 20, Para. B.7).

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Last checked: 2026-11-08

You apply through a participating lender, not through SBA directly (SOP 50 10 8.1, Sec. B, Ch. 5, Para. B.5.b; Appendix 20, Para. B.7).

## Two routes

- Delegated: a lender with PLP-EWCP authority submits the request in the SBA Loan System and keeps the file. SBA does not review its credit analysis before issuing a loan number.
- Non-delegated: the lender submits to SBA and notifies the Export Finance Manager at a U.S. Export Assistance Center. That officer reviews the file and sends a recommendation to SBA's processing center, which decides.

## What to gather

- A copy of the letter of credit or the buyer's order or contract, if you have one.
- Export credit insurance material and export licenses, if they apply.
- Receivable and payable agings and inventory reports dated within 180 days of application.
- A cash flow projection for the lesser of 12 months or the loan term, showing the export transactions.
- For indirect exports, a letter, invoice, order or contract from your customer.

## If a non-delegated request is declined

The lender may request reconsideration within 6 months of the decline (Appendix 20, Para. B.7).

## Where to get help

SBA says lenders can get help from the U.S. Export Assistance Center serving the exporter's region (sba.gov/sba-lenders, read November 8, 2026). Ask a lender whether it holds PLP-EWCP authority.

## Sources

- [SOP 50 10 8.1, Sec. B, Ch. 5, Para. B.5 (Para. B begins p. 175)](https://legacy.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2026-10/SOP%2050%2010%208.1%20Technical%20Policy%20Updates%20effective%20%2010.1.2026.docx)
- [SOP 50 10 8.1, Appendix 20, Para. B.7 (Para. B begins p. 419)](https://legacy.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2026-10/SOP%2050%2010%208.1%20Technical%20Policy%20Updates%20effective%20%2010.1.2026.docx)
- [SBA, Terms, conditions and eligibility for 7(a) lenders, sba.gov/sba-lenders (read November 8, 2026)](https://www.sba.gov/sba-lenders)