# What if your franchise brand is not on the SBA Directory?

**Short answer:** If the brand meets the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) definition, the application cannot proceed until it is listed. The franchisor submits its agreement, disclosure document and other required documents to franchise@sba.gov for review. Source: SOP 50 10 8.1, Sec. A, Ch. 1, Para. G.

Canonical page: https://www.sbaexpress.loans/answers/what-if-your-franchise-brand-is-not-on-the-sba-directory/
Last checked: 2026-11-08

The loan stops until the brand is added, if it meets the FTC definition of a franchise. Under SOP 50 10 8.1, Sec. A, Ch. 1, Para. G, lenders cannot submit a non-delegated application or approve a delegated loan.

## How a brand gets added

- The franchisor sends the agreement, its Franchise Disclosure Document if applicable, and all other documents franchisees must sign to franchise@sba.gov.
- If someone else submits, the franchisor's contact name and email must be included.
- SBA reviews new brands in the order received and may ask for the operations manual.
- If SBA finds the brand eligible, it sends a Franchisor or Distributor Certification to be signed and returned.
- SBA then lists the brand and assigns an identifier code.

## If the brand may not be a franchise

If it does not meet the FTC definition, the lender explains that finding in the credit memo on a non-delegated loan. SBA's Franchise Team makes the final call. On a delegated 7(a) loan, the lender bears the risk of an incorrect determination. On a delegated 504 loan, the lender must send the documents to SBA first.

## If SBA says no

A franchisor can appeal a refusal to list through franchise@sba.gov, and the SBA Franchise Committee reviews it. There is no appeal from a final decision by the Associate General Counsel for Litigation.

## Sources

- [SOP 50 10 8.1, Sec. A, Ch. 1, Para. G (about pp. 31-36)](https://legacy.sba.gov/sites/default/files/2026-10/SOP%2050%2010%208.1%20Technical%20Policy%20Updates%20effective%20%2010.1.2026.docx)