
Climate First Bank
Climate First Bank is an active SBA lender in Florida, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.4 stars across 96 Google reviews.
$256M
in SBA approvals since 2022
219
SBA loans funded
Fitness & Recreation · Construction & Contractors · Manufacturing
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Climate First Bank
Climate First Bank offers specialized financial solutions tailored to small businesses seeking SBA-backed loans. With a focus on supporting local entrepreneurs, the bank provides a range of lending options including SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for business expansion, equipment purchase, or working capital needs. Their team is dedicated to guiding clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. Located in St. Petersburg, FL, the bank emphasizes community development and sustainable growth. They also support microloans and other small business financing programs, making them a versatile partner for various business stages. Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, Climate First Bank aims to facilitate access to capital with competitive terms and personalized service. Their expertise in SBA lending helps clients leverage government-backed programs to achieve their business goals. The bank's commitment extends to fostering economic growth within its regional market, emphasizing responsible lending and community engagement.
Serves SBA borrowers in 11 states
Climate First Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries Climate First Bank finances
Business types Climate First Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Climate First Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a financial institution offering SBA-backed loans and small business financing options. You can find expert guidance, loan programs, and support tailored to entrepreneurs and small business owners in the community.
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 be available during business hours. Contact the branch ahead of your visit for specific guidance.
What are the hours of operation?
Climate First Bank operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST. For exact holiday hours or special services, confirm with your local branch.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees to access basic consultation services; however, loan processing and application fees may apply depending on the specific financing product.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves small business owners and entrepreneurs within its regional area, but eligibility depends on meeting loan criteria and credit standards.
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 may also influence approval decisions.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes between 30 to 45 days, depending on the complexity of the application and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Climate First Bank 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 Climate First Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Climate First Bank 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 Climate First Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Climate First Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Climate First Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Climate First Bank — 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 Climate First Bank before applying. If you represent Climate First Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Climate First Bank by phone at (727) 335-0734 or online at climatefirstbank.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 Climate First Bank before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Climate First Bank most often finances businesses in fitness & recreation, restaurants & food service, construction & contractors, salons, spas & personal care, cleaning, landscaping & janitorial, and manufacturing. This reflects Climate First Bank'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 Climate First Bank 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 Climate First Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Climate First Bank 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. Climate First Bank 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. Climate First Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Climate First Bank 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 Climate First Bank 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 Climate First Bank 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 Climate First Bank 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. Climate First Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Climate First Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



