The Cooperative Bank
The Cooperative Bank is an active SBA lender in Massachusetts, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.4 stars across 16 Google reviews.
$12M
in SBA approvals since 2014
28
SBA loans funded
Construction & Contractors · Manufacturing · Restaurants & Food Service
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About The Cooperative Bank
The Cooperative Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial growth and stability. With a focus on supporting local entrepreneurs, this bank provides various loan options, including SBA 7(a) loans, to help fund startups, expansions, and operational needs. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from initial inquiry to loan closing. Located in Roslindale, MA, they serve a diverse range of industries, emphasizing personalized service and flexible financing solutions. The bank's primary NAICS code, 722511, indicates a specialization in Food Service Contractors, reflecting their strength in supporting hospitality-related businesses. They are committed to fostering economic development within their community and beyond, offering competitive rates and transparent fee structures. Whether you're looking for a small microloan or a larger SBA-backed loan, The Cooperative Bank is equipped to assist with your business goals. Their dedication to accessible financing makes them a valuable partner for local business owners seeking reliable funding options.
Industries The Cooperative Bank finances
Business types The Cooperative Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about The Cooperative Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a trusted SBA lender offering various loan programs designed to support small business growth. You can find assistance with SBA 7(a), 504, and Express loans, tailored to your specific 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 specialist, but walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability.
What are the hours of operation?
The Cooperative Bank's Roslindale branch operates Monday through Wednesday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, and Thursday through Friday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. Please confirm with the bank for any changes.
Is there a fee to use this?
Yes, there are fees associated with loan processing and closing, but they are transparent and disclosed upfront.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This lender primarily serves small business owners within the region, but they welcome inquiries from entrepreneurs across the country seeking SBA funding.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of 620 is generally required to qualify for SBA loans through this lender.
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 completeness of your application and supporting documents.
Is this open on weekends?
The Cooperative Bank offers limited Saturday hours at some branches, 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Hours vary by location, so confirm with your local branch.
How do I get there and where do I park?
The Cooperative Bank is located in Massachusetts — 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 Cooperative Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by The Cooperative Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at The Cooperative Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for The Cooperative 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 The Cooperative Bank before applying. If you represent The Cooperative Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
Contact The Cooperative Bank at (617) 325-2900, via email to branch managers, or online at thecooperativebank.com. Confirm directly with the lender for business lending contacts.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, The Cooperative Bank most often finances businesses in construction & contractors, general retail, and restaurants & food service. This reflects The Cooperative 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 The Cooperative 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 The Cooperative Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact The Cooperative 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. The Cooperative 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. The Cooperative Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask The Cooperative 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 The Cooperative 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 The Cooperative 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 The Cooperative 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. The Cooperative Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask The Cooperative Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
