
Bank of Central Florida
Bank of Central Florida is an active SBA lender in Florida, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.3 stars across 23 Google reviews.
$45M
in SBA approvals since 2018
56
SBA loans funded
Construction & Contractors · Manufacturing · General Retail
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Bank of Central Florida
Bank of Central Florida offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth and expansion. With a focus on the Lakeland community, this institution provides a variety of loan options including the SBA 7(a) program, which is ideal for working capital, equipment purchase, or real estate acquisition. The bank prides itself on personalized service and flexible lending solutions designed to meet the unique needs of local entrepreneurs. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and efficiency. Whether you're a startup or an established business, Bank of Central Florida is committed to helping you achieve your financial goals with competitive rates and terms. They also support small business owners with advice on credit and funding strategies, making them a trusted partner in your business journey.
Industries Bank of Central Florida finances
Business types Bank of Central Florida actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Bank of Central Florida
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a financial institution offering SBA loans and business banking services designed to support small business growth in the Lakeland area. You can find assistance with funding, credit, and financial planning tailored to your business needs.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It is recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a banking specialist, but walk-in visits are also welcome during business hours.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday, with extended hours by appointment upon request.
Is there a fee to use this?
Fees vary depending on the services used, including loan processing and account maintenance, but transparent fee structures are provided upfront.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves local small business owners and residents in the Lakeland area, but business clients from surrounding regions may also be eligible.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of 640 is generally preferred, though other factors are also considered during the approval process.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the loan and completeness of the application.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Bank of Central Florida typically follows the same pattern. SBA lending staff are generally reachable Monday through Friday. A few locations offer Saturday or by-appointment hours, so call Bank of Central Florida to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Bank of Central Florida is located in Florida — 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 Central Florida, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Bank of Central Florida itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Bank of Central Florida, 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 Central Florida — 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 Central Florida before applying. If you represent Bank of Central Florida, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Bank of Central Florida by phone at (863) 701-2685 or online at bankofcentralflorida.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 Central Florida before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Bank of Central Florida most often finances businesses in construction & contractors, general retail, and manufacturing. This reflects Bank of Central Florida'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 Central Florida 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 Central Florida participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Bank of Central Florida 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 Central Florida 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 Central Florida's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Bank of Central Florida 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 Central Florida 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 Central Florida 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 Central Florida 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 Central Florida weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Bank of Central Florida how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



