
Brightbridge, Inc.
Brightbridge, Inc. is an active SBA lender in Tennessee, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 5.0 stars across 2 Google reviews.
$379M
in SBA approvals since 2010
426
SBA loans funded
Hotels & Lodging · Restaurants & Food Service · Manufacturing
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Brightbridge, Inc.
Brightbridge, Inc. offers comprehensive SBA lending solutions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or working capital. As a commercial bank located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, it provides a range of loan programs designed to meet diverse business needs, including SBA 7(a) loans, which are popular for their flexibility and favorable terms. The bank specializes in serving local businesses within the region, leveraging its expertise to facilitate access to capital that can help companies thrive in competitive markets. With a focus on personalized service, Brightbridge supports entrepreneurs through every step of the lending process, ensuring clarity and confidence in their financial decisions. The bank's experienced team understands the nuances of SBA programs and works closely with borrowers to structure loans that align with their strategic goals. Whether financing equipment, real estate, or working capital, Brightbridge is committed to fostering economic growth in the Chattanooga area and beyond.
Serves SBA borrowers in 2 states
Brightbridge, Inc. has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries Brightbridge, Inc. finances
Business types Brightbridge, Inc. actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Brightbridge, Inc.
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a commercial bank that provides SBA loan programs to small and medium-sized businesses. You can find assistance with financing options like SBA 7(a) loans, tailored to support your business growth and expansion needs.
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-in consultations may also be available during business hours.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank's typical hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's best to contact them directly for specific appointment times or after-hours services.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for simply visiting or consulting; however, loan application and processing fees may apply when pursuing financing options.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves local businesses within its regional area, but eligibility depends on meeting specific loan criteria and creditworthiness.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
The minimum personal credit score typically required is around 620, but higher scores improve approval chances.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process generally takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the loan and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Brightbridge, Inc. 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 Brightbridge, Inc. to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Brightbridge, Inc. 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 Brightbridge, Inc., an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Brightbridge, Inc. itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Brightbridge, Inc., you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Brightbridge, Inc. — 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 Brightbridge, Inc. before applying. If you represent Brightbridge, Inc., claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Brightbridge, Inc. by phone at (423) 424-4220 or online at brightbridgeinc.org — 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 Brightbridge, Inc. before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Brightbridge, Inc. most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service, medical practices & clinics, fitness & recreation, and general retail. This reflects Brightbridge, Inc.'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 Brightbridge, Inc. 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 Brightbridge, Inc. participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Brightbridge, Inc. 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. Brightbridge, Inc. 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. Brightbridge, Inc.'s appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Brightbridge, Inc. 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 Brightbridge, Inc. 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 Brightbridge, Inc. 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 Brightbridge, Inc. 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. Brightbridge, Inc. weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Brightbridge, Inc. how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



