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The Harvard State Bank

Bank4.3(17)

The Harvard State Bank is an active SBA lender in Illinois, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.3 stars across 17 Google reviews.

$35M

in SBA approvals since 2010

58

SBA loans funded

Auto Dealers & Sales · Gas Stations & Convenience · Restaurants & Food Service

Top industries financed

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

About The Harvard State Bank

Offering comprehensive SBA lending services, this financial institution specializes in supporting small businesses through various loan programs. With a focus on the SBA 7(a) program, it provides tailored financing solutions to help entrepreneurs grow and expand their operations. The bank is equipped to handle loan requests up to $282,000, making it suitable for a wide range of business needs, from working capital to equipment purchases. Located in Harvard, Illinois, the bank's team understands local market conditions and offers personalized service to each client. Its experienced staff guides borrowers through the application process, ensuring they meet all requirements for approval. Whether you're starting a new venture or expanding an existing business, this lender is committed to providing accessible and efficient funding options. The bank also offers expertise in various industries, particularly in sectors aligned with its primary NAICS code of 624410. With a strong emphasis on customer service and community support, it aims to foster economic growth in the region while maintaining competitive terms and flexible lending criteria.

Serves SBA borrowers in 2 states

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

Industries The Harvard State Bank finances

Business types The Harvard State Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.

Common questions about The Harvard State Bank

What is this place and what can I find here?

This is a community-focused bank offering SBA loan programs designed to support small business growth. You can find personalized financial services, expert guidance, and access to funding options tailored to your business needs.

Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?

It is recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a loan officer, but walk-ins are also welcome during business hours.

What are the hours of operation?

The bank operates from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.

Is there a fee to use this?

There are no fees for inquiries or consultations; loan fees depend on the specific financing arrangement.

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

This bank primarily serves local small businesses and residents within the Harvard, IL area, but eligibility depends on meeting loan requirements.

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

A minimum personal credit score of 640 is generally recommended for loan consideration.

How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?

The underwriting process typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of application and documentation.

Is this open on weekends?

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

How do I get there and where do I park?

The Harvard State Bank is located in Illinois — 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 Harvard State Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by The Harvard State Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at The Harvard State 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 Harvard State 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 Harvard State Bank before applying. If you represent The Harvard State Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.

How do I contact this listing directly?

You can reach The Harvard State Bank by phone at (815) 943-4400 or online at webhsb.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 The Harvard State Bank before relying on them.

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

Based on its approved SBA loans, The Harvard State Bank most often finances businesses in fitness & recreation, restaurants & food service, automotive repair & services, and gas stations & convenience. This reflects The Harvard State 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 Harvard State 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 Harvard State Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact The Harvard State 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 Harvard State 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 Harvard State Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask The Harvard State 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 Harvard State 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 Harvard State 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 Harvard State 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 Harvard State Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask The Harvard State Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.

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