KEMBA Financial CU
KEMBA Financial CU is an active SBA lender in Ohio, a credit union offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 2.4 stars across 100 Google reviews.
$12M
in SBA approvals since 2020
29
SBA loans funded
Legal Services · Fitness & Recreation · Cleaning, Landscaping & Janitorial
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About KEMBA Financial CU
KEMBA Financial CU offers comprehensive SBA lending services, focusing on small business financing needs with personalized support and flexible loan options. They provide SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for business expansion, equipment purchase, or working capital. With a strong community presence, they aim to serve local entrepreneurs and small business owners by offering competitive rates and tailored financial solutions. Their team is dedicated to guiding clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and efficiency from start to finish. The bank specializes in serving a diverse range of industries, emphasizing their commitment to fostering local economic growth and supporting small business success through SBA programs. Whether you're seeking a loan for startup costs or growth initiatives, KEMBA Financial CU is equipped to help you achieve your business goals with a focus on customer service and financial expertise.
Common questions about KEMBA Financial CU
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused financial institution offering SBA lending options and small business financing solutions tailored to local entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It is recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated assistance, but walk-in consultations may also be accommodated during business hours.
What are the hours of operation?
KEMBA Financial CU operates virtual branch services Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–6:00 PM and Saturday 8:00 AM–1:00 PM; live video service is available Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (until 6:00 PM on Friday) and Saturday 9:00 AM–1:00 PM. Please contact them directly at 614.235.2395 to confirm physical branch hours.
Is there a fee to use this?
There may be fees associated with certain services or loan processing, which will be disclosed during the application process.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This institution primarily serves local residents and small business members within the community, with eligibility based on membership and creditworthiness.
What minimum personal credit score does this lender look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 640 is generally preferred, though it can vary based on the loan specifics.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the application and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Yes, KEMBA Financial CU is open on Saturdays, with virtual branch services 8:00 AM–1:00 PM and live video service 9:00 AM–1:00 PM. Confirm specific Saturday hours for in-person SBA lending staff with the lender directly.
How do I get there and where do I park?
KEMBA Financial CU is located in Ohio — see the contact card for the full address. Most credit union 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 KEMBA Financial CU, an SBA-participating credit union. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by KEMBA Financial CU itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at KEMBA Financial CU, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for KEMBA Financial CU — 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 KEMBA Financial CU before applying. If you represent KEMBA Financial CU, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach KEMBA Financial CU by phone at (614) 235-2395 or toll-free at 800.282.6420, by email at service@kemba.org, or online at kemba.org — for SBA loans specifically, ask for their business lending or SBA department.
What core industries does this lender traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, KEMBA Financial CU can finance a broad range of small businesses — common categories include professional services, healthcare practices, restaurants and franchises, retail, light manufacturing, and commercial real estate. Each credit union sets its own industry preferences and may avoid sectors it considers higher risk. Ask KEMBA Financial CU directly which industries it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this lender?
SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether KEMBA Financial CU participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact KEMBA Financial CU and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.
Does this lender 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 credit unions hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. KEMBA Financial CU can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.
Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this lender?
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. KEMBA Financial CU's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask KEMBA Financial CU 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 KEMBA Financial CU what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.
Does this lender 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 KEMBA Financial CU to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.
Can I use loan proceeds from this lender 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 KEMBA Financial CU 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. KEMBA Financial CU weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask KEMBA Financial CU how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
