DEERFIELD, Ill. - s4story -- Immigrant entrepreneurs—who launch more than 20% of all new U.S. businesses despite representing only ~14% of the population—are encountering growing barriers to capital as the Small Business Administration (SBA) and equipment finance companies tighten lending rules, according to small business finance experts.

Recent SBA policy changes now require all shareholders in business acquisition loans to be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, excluding many otherwise qualified immigrant-owned businesses. This restriction limits access to one of the SBA's most powerful tools: up to 100% financing for business acquisitions, expansions, and commercial real estate purchases.

At the same time, equipment financing companies increasingly require U.S. citizenship or green card status for favorable terms. Industries such as trucking, logistics, and construction—already hit by reduced liquidity—are among the hardest affected. Reports show credit standards have tightened for 12 consecutive quarters, with more than 70% of loan denials now citing documentation or eligibility issues.

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"Immigrant-owned businesses are being turned away not because they lack potential, but because of shifting lender requirements and stricter SBA rules," said Diana Zarkha, Managing Director of Commercial Capital Consulting Group and a member of the National Small Business Association Leadership Council. "These entrepreneurs create jobs and fuel innovation, yet too often their financing opportunities are cut short by barriers they can't control."

Zarkha is urging immigrant business owners, community leaders, and policymakers nationwide to speak up and engage with the National Small Business Association (NSBA) to advocate for more inclusive SBA and lending policies.

"Now is the time for immigrant entrepreneurs to make their voices heard," Zarkha said. "Through advocacy, education, and persistence, we can ensure fair and equitable access to the capital immigrant-owned businesses need to grow."

For more information about small business financing and SBA loan guidance, visit: http://www.commercialcapitalconsulting.com.