Small Business & Franchise — 2026-08-26
The SBA is actively soliciting public comments on a proposed overhaul of size standards for 338 industry groups, which could significantly expand loan and contracting eligibility for small businesses. Simultaneously, new Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the 7(a) loan program are set to take effect on October 1, 2026, introducing changes that will reshape business acquisition financing. On the franchise front, major M&A activity continues with significant brand conversions and real estate acquisitions reported across the industry.
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