
Cogent Bank
Cogent Bank is an active SBA lender in Florida, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 5.0 stars across 5 Google reviews.
$286M
in SBA approvals since 2010
275
SBA loans funded
Hotels & Lodging · Restaurants & Food Service · Construction & Contractors
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Cogent Bank
Cogent Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending solutions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial support for growth and expansion. With a focus on the 7A loan program, the bank provides flexible financing options to help entrepreneurs access capital for various needs, including working capital, equipment purchases, and real estate acquisitions. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. Located in Orlando, Florida, Cogent Bank is committed to fostering local economic development by supporting businesses across diverse industries. The bank's SBA services are designed to meet the unique needs of each borrower, emphasizing personalized service and quick turnaround times. Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, Cogent Bank strives to be a reliable partner in your business journey, offering competitive terms and expert advice to help you succeed.
Serves SBA borrowers in 3 states
Cogent Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries Cogent Bank finances
Business types Cogent Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Cogent Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a financial institution offering SBA loan programs designed to support small business growth. You can find information about different loan options, application processes, and personalized assistance for your business 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-ins may be accommodated depending on availability.
What are the hours of operation?
Typically, the bank operates from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, but it's best to confirm directly with the branch.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees to visit or inquire; however, loan applications may involve fees related to processing and closing costs.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves small business owners and entrepreneurs within its regional service area, but eligibility depends on meeting specific loan criteria.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 650 is generally preferred, though higher scores improve approval chances.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The process typically takes between 30 to 60 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 Cogent 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 Cogent Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Cogent 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 Cogent Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Cogent Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Cogent Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Cogent 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 Cogent Bank before applying. If you represent Cogent Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Cogent Bank by phone at (407) 545-2662 or online at cogentbank.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 Cogent Bank before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Cogent Bank most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service, manufacturing, general retail, construction & contractors, medical practices & clinics, and wholesale & distribution. This reflects Cogent 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 Cogent 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 Cogent Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Cogent 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. Cogent 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. Cogent Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Cogent 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 Cogent 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 Cogent 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 Cogent 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. Cogent Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Cogent Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.


