DCUC Advocates for Equal SBA Lending Opportunities for Credit Unions

​WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Defense Credit Union Council (DCUC) has called on the House Small Business Committee to include credit unions in SBA lending programs, ensuring small businesses—especially in underserved areas—have greater access to capital. While community banks have traditionally dominated SBA partnerships, DCUC’s letter shared how credit unions also play a crucial role by offering relationship-based lending, competitive loan terms, and vital financial services in rural and underserved communities.

In its letter, DCUC highlights regulatory barriers that limit credit union participation in SBA programs, including lending caps and administrative hurdles. To address this, DCUC called for the passage of the recently sponsored Veterans Member Business Loan Act (VMBLA), which would exempt veteran-owned business loans from restrictive credit union lending caps, expanding opportunities for veteran entrepreneurs.

“To drive economic growth, the SBA must treat credit unions as equal partners in small business lending by removing restrictions, passing the Veterans Member Business Loan Act, and expanding credit union participation in SBA programs,” says Stverak. “By ensuring that defense credit unions can fully support veteran entrepreneurs, Congress can provide a direct path to financial readiness and business success for those who have served our country.”

For more information, please contact Jason Stverak at [email protected] and visit dcuc.org/advocacy.