The Franchise Registry Eligibility Certification Program for SBA Lending
100+ Brands representing more than 17,700 units across the US now have their Certificate of Franchisor Eligibility available to franchise lenders.
Since the SBA Franchise Directory went away in May of 2023, both franchisors and lenders alike have had great concern and confusion. FRANdata has created the Franchise Registry Eligibility Certification Program to alleviate these issues and confirm eligibility. Offered as part of their Franchise Registry membership, more than a hundred brands have their certificate signed and available to the 9000+ franchise lenders on the Franchise Registry, and more are providing their signed certificates every day.
UPDATE: The Franchise Registry continues to bridge the gaps in SBA policy changes we will continue providing the Franchisor Eligibility Certification until the SBA’s official version launches July 31st, keeping loans moving in the meantime.
Franchise Registry Membership Positions Your Brand for Growth by Navigating Every SBA Policy Shift with Confidence
Certification Requirement with FDD Submission
Franchisors will now be required to sign a new SBA Certification at the time they submit their FDD for SBA eligibility. This tighter review process links your franchise disclosure to your SBA eligibility directly.
Important:
- For existing brands already on the SBA Franchise Directory, a signed certification must be submitted by July 31, 2025.
- If a franchisor does not sign the certification by July 31st, the brand will be removed from the SBA Franchise Directory and will not be eligible for SBA-backed financing.
- There will be two certifications: one for franchisors and one for distributors (if applicable to your system).
Temporary Procedures Until July 31st
Until July 31st, franchisors already listed on the SBA Franchise Directory will operate under temporary procedures:
- Lenders will continue to rely on the existing addendum used under the old SBA Franchise Directory.
- Brands will be listed with a note that the updated certification is pending.
- After July 31st, only fully certified brands will remain eligible.
How a Franchise Registry Membership Can Help
Navigating these sweeping SBA changes can be complex — but you don’t have to do it alone.
FRANdata works directly with SBA officials and lenders to guide franchisors through:
- FRANdata is working with SBA to submit applications en masse
- Pre-submission vetting of your FDD and business model
- Certification form preparation
- Risk mitigation strategies if eligibility concerns arise
For more information or to join FRANdata’s Franchise Registry, contact us at franchiseregistry@frandata.com