Live Oak Bank

Last week the newly combined Ohio SBA District celebrated Small Business Week with our annual lender awards, along with a surprise visit from SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler! I gladly accepted Live Oak Bank's top SBA lender award, ranking #5 in total SBA loan production in Ohio last year.

I had the privilege of attending Burger King's Lender Day and I left genuinely optimistic. The BK turnaround story isn't just talk. The data backs it up, the leadership team is locked in, and the sales growth opportunity for franchisees right now is real. 🔥 The "Sizzle" remodel is working — and the numbers prove it BK is the largest remodeler in its own system — 80+ projects annually, hundreds of millions in capital deployed, showing skin in the game. Remodeled stores are driving meaningful sales lifts and are materially outperforming legacy formats per FDD data. 📊 Franchisee profitability is the company's North Star Executive compensation is tied directly to four-wall EBITDA — that's accountability you can take to the bank. The profitability journey: ~$140K avg (2022) → ~$205K (2023–2024), with a near-term target of $230K and a long-term goal of $300K+. Beef inflation is the current headwind, with relief expected in Q3/Q4. The trajectory is unmistakably upward. 📈 Same-store sales, not new builds — existing assets have enormous upside. Leadership's focus is squarely on remodels, operational excellence, and same-store growth — meaning franchisees who invest in their existing locations now are positioned to capture the lion's share of the brand's momentum. 🏆 The competitive ambition is bold — and credible BK is targeting the #2 burger chain spot by end of 2026, with a long-term goal of #1. Despite a historically stressed consumer environment, the brand ranks among the top 4 publicly traded restaurant chains in same-store sales growth. Momentum is building — and it's accelerating into 2025–2026. 💼 This is the moment for franchisees to grow BK is refranchising — and they're seeking strong, committed operators to carry the brand forward. For franchisees looking to expand their footprint, acquire additional units, or fund a Sizzle remodel, the stars are aligning. At Live Oak Bank, we specialize in exactly this kind of franchise financing — and we'd love to help you capitalize on the momentum. The brand is growing. Now is the time to grow with it. Are you a Burger King franchisee thinking about your next move? Let's talk. 👇 #BurgerKing #QSR #LiveOakBank #RBI #RestaurantFinance #SBA

Ownership transitions can be complex—but with the right structure, they can unlock the next phase of growth. Live Oak Bank recently funded an SBA 7(a) loan of $1,165,000 to support a partner buyout of a Managed Service Provider. This transaction enabled 10+ minority partners to successfully exit the business, while positioning the key operator to step in as the 100% owner. Highlights from the deal: 🔹 $1.165MM SBA 7(a) financing for partner buyout 🔹 10+ minority partners exited, simplifying ownership structure 🔹 Key operator now has full control of the business 🔹 Preserved capital to support ongoing operations and growth With a streamlined ownership structure, the new owner is well-positioned to: 🚀 Drive organic growth through improved operations and customer expansion 🚀 Pursue inorganic growth through future acquisitions Partner buyouts like this are a powerful use of the SBA 7(a) program—allowing businesses to transition ownership internally while maintaining stability for employees and customers. Excited to see what’s next for this company under its new ownership structure! If you’re an MSP owner considering a partner buyout or planning for future growth, feel free to reach out. Happy to discuss how tailored financing solutions can support your goals.

Another deal closed and another business growing 📈 Live Oak Bank had the opportunity to support an established funeral home business as they expanded their footprint through the acquisition of an additional location. With a clear vision in place, they’re already in the process of upgrading the facility to meet their operational standards and better serve their community. Proud to have helped make this growth opportunity possible and to continue supporting owners who are investing in the future of their businesses. #LiveOakBank #SmallBusiness #BusinessExpansion #FuneralHomes #SBA #Growth

Live Oak Bank is proud to have supported the successful acquisition of a Merchant Services Provider through an SBA 7(a) loan of $2,875,000. This transaction enabled a first-time buyer with strong industry experience to complete a $4,225,000 purchase. The remaining capital stack was thoughtfully structured through a combination of seller financing and buyer equity—demonstrating alignment and confidence from all parties involved. It’s always rewarding to partner with entrepreneurs who bring both vision and hands-on expertise. In this case, the borrower is well-positioned to build on an established foundation and drive future growth by leveraging their deep knowledge of the payments space. Congratulations to everyone involved in getting this deal across the finish line!