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SmartBank

Bank3.8(30)

SmartBank is an active SBA lender in Tennessee, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.8 stars across 30 Google reviews.

$120M

in SBA approvals since 2010

118

SBA loans funded

Hotels & Lodging · Restaurants & Food Service · General Retail

Top industries financed

Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).

About SmartBank

SmartBank offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth, equipment, or operational needs. With a focus on facilitating access to capital, the bank provides SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for a variety of business purposes including working capital, expansion, and acquisition. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. Located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, they serve local and regional businesses, emphasizing personalized service and flexible lending options. The bank's lending programs are designed to support small business success, with competitive terms and dedicated support for entrepreneurs. Whether you're a startup or an established business, SmartBank aims to provide the funding solutions necessary to help your business thrive. Their commitment to small business growth is reflected in their extensive SBA program offerings, including SBA 7(a) and other support options, making them a reliable partner for your financing needs.

Serves SBA borrowers in 4 states

SmartBank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.

Industries SmartBank finances

Business types SmartBank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.

Common questions about SmartBank

What is this place and what can I find here?

This is a financial institution offering SBA lending services to small businesses, including SBA 7(a) loans, aimed at supporting business growth and operational needs. You can find personalized assistance, loan options, and guidance through the application process to help your business succeed.

Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?

It is recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a loan specialist, but walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability. Calling ahead can help streamline your visit and prepare necessary documentation.

What are the hours of operation?

The bank operates during standard business hours, typically from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. It is advisable to confirm hours directly with the branch before visiting.

Is there a fee to use this?

There are no fees for accessing basic information, but loan processing and application fees may apply depending on the specific financing arrangement. Always review fee details with your loan officer.

Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?

This lender primarily serves small business owners in the region, but eligibility depends on meeting specific financial and credit criteria. Business owners from outside the area may also qualify if they meet the requirements.

What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?

Typically, a minimum personal credit score of 620 is preferred, though higher scores may improve approval chances and loan terms.

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 application and completeness of submitted documentation.

Is this open on weekends?

Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and SmartBank 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 SmartBank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.

How do I get there and where do I park?

SmartBank 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 SmartBank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by SmartBank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at SmartBank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.

How current is the information on this page?

The core details for SmartBank — 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 SmartBank before applying. If you represent SmartBank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.

How do I contact this listing directly?

You can reach SmartBank by phone at (865) 868-0618 or online at smartbank.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 SmartBank before relying on them.

What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?

Based on its approved SBA loans, SmartBank most often finances businesses in hotels & lodging, restaurants & food service, general retail, medical practices & clinics, automotive repair & services, and manufacturing. This reflects SmartBank'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 SmartBank 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 SmartBank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact SmartBank 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. SmartBank 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. SmartBank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask SmartBank 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 SmartBank 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 SmartBank 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 SmartBank 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. SmartBank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask SmartBank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.

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