SBIC Funds

The SBIC program, established in 1958, aims to increase capital access for growth-stage businesses. These are privately owned investment funds licensed by the U.S. Small Business Administration that combine private capital with SBA guarantees to make equity and debt investments in qualifying small American businesses.

Commerce Street partners with top-tier SBIC funds, offering support with regulations, governance, and fundraising. We have raised over $800 million for 8 SBIC funds after reviewing over 150 potential partners.

SBIC Program Impact

• Deployed more than $84 billion in capital
• Made over 174,000 investments in small businesses
• $4 billion authorized annually
• $28 billion in assets under management
• 303 active SBIC funds
• Funded businesses grew by an average of 45.6%
• Nearly 3 million jobs created

Investor Benefits

• Lower borrowing rates than traditional lending sources
• Performance returns combined with social impact
• Extensive SBA due diligence including FBI background checks
• Bank-eligible investments offering CRA credit
• Commercial & industrial opportunities
• Potential senior loan positions