
The Bank of Bennington
The Bank of Bennington is an active SBA lender in Vermont, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.2 stars across 38 Google reviews.
$6M
in SBA approvals since 2010
62
SBA loans funded
General Retail · Food Manufacturing & Processing · Bars & Nightlife
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About The Bank of Bennington
The Bank of Bennington offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or startup needs. With a focus on personalized service, they provide a variety of loan options including SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for working capital, equipment, or real estate acquisitions. Their experienced lending team guides clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and support at every step. Located in Bennington, Vermont, the bank is committed to fostering local economic development by providing flexible financing solutions. They serve small businesses across various industries, emphasizing community engagement and tailored financial products. Whether you're a new business seeking startup funding or an established company looking to expand, The Bank of Bennington offers the expertise and resources to help you achieve your goals. Their SBA lending programs are designed to be accessible, with competitive terms and personalized service to meet your unique needs.
Serves SBA borrowers in 2 states
The Bank of Bennington has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries The Bank of Bennington finances
Business types The Bank of Bennington actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about The Bank of Bennington
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused bank offering SBA lending services and personalized financial solutions for small businesses in the Bennington area. You can find assistance with loans, business advice, and community banking services tailored to your needs.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
You can walk in for general inquiries or schedule an appointment with a lending specialist to discuss your specific financing needs and get personalized assistance.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank's hours are typically Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's best to call ahead or check their website for current hours.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for visiting the bank; however, loan processing and application fees may apply depending on the services requested.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves local residents and small business owners within the community, but non-residents may also access certain services with proper documentation.
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 stronger scores improve approval chances.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes 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 The Bank of Bennington 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 The Bank of Bennington to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
The Bank of Bennington is located in Vermont — 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 The Bank of Bennington, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by The Bank of Bennington itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at The Bank of Bennington, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for The Bank of Bennington — 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 The Bank of Bennington before applying. If you represent The Bank of Bennington, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
The Bank of Bennington's loan servicing team can be reached at loanservicing@bennbank.com or by phone at (802) 442-1640. Confirm specific SBA loan details directly with the bank.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, The Bank of Bennington most often finances businesses in general retail. This reflects The Bank of Bennington'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 The Bank of Bennington 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 The Bank of Bennington participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact The Bank of Bennington 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. The Bank of Bennington 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. The Bank of Bennington's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask The Bank of Bennington 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 The Bank of Bennington 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 The Bank of Bennington 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 The Bank of Bennington 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. The Bank of Bennington weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask The Bank of Bennington how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



