Bank of Tennessee
Bank of Tennessee is an active SBA lender in Tennessee, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.0 stars across 17 Google reviews.
$3M
in SBA approvals since 2011
15
SBA loans funded
Restaurants & Food Service · Food Manufacturing & Processing · Wholesale & Distribution
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Bank of Tennessee
Bank of Tennessee offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. With a focus on the Tennessee region, it provides various loan programs including the SBA 7(a) loan, which is ideal for a wide range of business purposes such as working capital, equipment purchase, or real estate acquisition. The bank specializes in supporting small businesses by offering flexible financing options, competitive rates, and personalized service to help entrepreneurs succeed. Their experienced lending team guides clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and efficiency from start to finish. Whether you're a startup or an established business, Bank of Tennessee aims to facilitate your financial goals with tailored solutions and dedicated support. The bank’s commitment to local economic development is reflected in its strong community ties and focus on regional growth initiatives. They understand the unique challenges faced by small business owners and strive to provide accessible, straightforward financing options to meet those needs. With a history of supporting SBA programs, they are a trusted partner for small business financing across Tennessee and beyond.
Industries Bank of Tennessee finances
Business types Bank of Tennessee actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Bank of Tennessee
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a bank that provides SBA loan options to small businesses, helping them secure financing for growth, equipment, real estate, and more. You can find personalized assistance, loan programs, and guidance through the application process to support your business goals.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a loan officer, but walk-ins are also welcome during business hours. Calling ahead can help you prepare and streamline your visit.
What are the hours of operation?
Bank of Tennessee's Kingsport location lobby is open Monday through Thursday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm, with drive-thru available Monday through Saturday 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Please confirm with the lender for holiday hours.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees to access basic banking services, but loan applications and processing may involve fees such as guarantee fees or closing costs depending on the loan type and size.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves residents and small businesses within the Tennessee region, but non-residents with qualifying business plans may also be considered.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 650 is generally preferred, but stronger scores can improve the likelihood of approval.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the application and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
The Drive-Thru Plus is open Saturdays from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Sunday hours are not specified on the website. Please confirm with the lender.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Bank of Tennessee is located in Tennessee — see the contact card for the full address. Most bank locations offer free on-site or nearby street parking for visitors. For exact directions, the entrance, and accessible parking, use the listed address or call ahead and staff can point you to visitor spaces.
Who owns or operates this listing?
This page is an independent directory listing for Bank of Tennessee, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Bank of Tennessee itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Bank of Tennessee, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Bank of Tennessee — name, location, contact, and lender type — are compiled from public records and reviewed periodically. Rates, programs, credit policies, and hours change often and are not guaranteed here, so always confirm the latest terms directly with Bank of Tennessee before applying. If you represent Bank of Tennessee, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Bank of Tennessee by phone at (866) 378-9500 or online at bankoftennessee.com — the details are in the contact card on this page. For SBA loans specifically, ask for their business lending or SBA department. Treat this directory page as a starting point and confirm hours and contact details with Bank of Tennessee before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Bank of Tennessee most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service. This reflects Bank of Tennessee's real SBA 7(a) and 504 lending history rather than a stated policy — it can still consider other industries and sets its own current preferences, so confirm with Bank of Tennessee which sectors it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this branch?
SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether Bank of Tennessee participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Bank of Tennessee and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.
Does this bank have Preferred Lender Provider status with the government?
SBA Preferred Lender Program (PLP) status lets a lender approve loans in-house without sending each one to the SBA first, which usually means faster decisions. Many established banks hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. Bank of Tennessee can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.
Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this traditional institution?
The SBA does fund start-ups, but many traditional lenders prefer at least two years of operating history and may ask newer ventures for a larger equity injection or stronger collateral. Bank of Tennessee's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Bank of Tennessee directly whether it considers start-up loans.
What are the typical down payment expectations for commercial real estate acquisitions?
For SBA 7(a) and 504 commercial real estate loans, borrowers typically contribute around 10% to 20% as a down payment or equity injection, depending on the property and the deal. Exact requirements vary with your credit, the business, and the lender's policy. Ask Bank of Tennessee what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.
Does this bank impose prepayment penalties on short-term working capital facilities?
SBA 7(a) loans with terms under 15 years generally carry no prepayment penalty, while longer real estate loans can have one in the early years. Short-term working capital lines often have no penalty, but terms vary by lender. Review your loan agreement and ask Bank of Tennessee to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.
Can I use loan proceeds from this bank to buy out an existing equity partner?
SBA loans can be used for a partner or owner buyout, including buying out an existing equity partner, when the deal is structured to meet SBA rules — for example, the remaining owner generally must stay actively involved. Approval depends on the specifics, so discuss your buyout plan with Bank of Tennessee to confirm it qualifies and how to document it.
Will historical personal bankruptcies automatically disqualify my loan application here?
A past personal bankruptcy does not automatically disqualify you from an SBA loan. Lenders look at how long ago it was discharged, the circumstances, and how your credit has recovered since. Bank of Tennessee weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Bank of Tennessee how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
