What This Page Is
Most clinic operators don't know which financing programs exist when they start planning. SBA 7(a) loans, CSBFP, BDC financing, equipment leasing — these aren't complicated once you understand them, but they're easy to overlook if nobody explains them clearly.
This page is an educational reference. It describes what programs exist, what they cover, and how they work. KlinDeck does not broker loans, arrange financing, or facilitate any financing transaction. All financing decisions are made between you and the relevant financial institution.
Financing Programs Worth Knowing About
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SBA 7(a) — United States
The primary government-backed loan program for US small businesses including healthcare startups. Covers working capital, equipment, and leasehold improvements. Administered through participating banks and credit unions — not directly by the SBA.
Up to $5M10–25 yr termsHealthcare eligibleBank-administered
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SBA 504 — United States
Structured financing for major fixed assets — real estate and large equipment. Involves a Certified Development Company (CDC) alongside a bank. Lower blended interest rates than 7(a) for the right asset types. Commonly used for dental and imaging-heavy clinic real estate.
Real estate / equipment10% downLower blended rateCDC + bank structure
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CSBFP — Canada
Canada Small Business Financing Program. Federal government-backed financing through participating banks and credit unions. Covers equipment and leasehold improvements up to $1M CAD. Rate is regulated: prime + 3%. Not a direct government loan — the bank provides the financing, the government guarantees a portion.
Up to $1M CADBank-issuedHealthcare eligiblePrime + 3%
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BDC — Canada
Business Development Bank of Canada. A Crown corporation that lends directly to Canadian businesses — not through a third-party bank. Well-suited for startup operators who may not yet have an established banking relationship. Covers working capital, equipment, and term financing. Flexible on approval criteria for new businesses.
Direct government lenderWorking capitalStartup-friendlyHealthcare eligible
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Equipment Leasing
Private Market · US & Canada
Not a government program. Equipment leasing is a private market financing structure offered through commercial lenders and leasing companies. It converts large upfront equipment costs into monthly payments, preserving working capital during the critical ramp period. Terms, rates, and buyout options vary by lender and equipment type. Available in both Canada and the US independently of any government program.
36–60 mo termsPreserves year-one cashEnd-of-term buyout optionsNo government backing
The first four programs above are government-backed — they have defined terms, eligibility criteria, and are administered through regulated institutions. Equipment leasing is a private market arrangement with no government backing. The two categories work differently and are often used together rather than as alternatives.
Two Things Worth Knowing
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Program eligibility varies by clinic type
Traditional regulated health professions — physiotherapy, chiropractic, dental, general medical, psychology — are typically straightforward for healthcare financing programs. Med spas, IV therapy, and aesthetics clinics may be evaluated differently depending on the lender and program. Verify eligibility directly with the financial institution before applying.
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Canadian and US programs are distinct
BDC and CSBFP are Canadian federal programs with no US equivalent. SBA programs are US-only. Equipment leasing operates in both markets but terms and providers vary significantly. Don't assume Canadian program details apply in the US or vice versa.
Important Notice
KlinDeck is not a licensed financial advisor, mortgage broker, loan broker, or regulated financial intermediary in any jurisdiction. The information on this page is general and educational in nature.
Program terms, eligibility criteria, interest rates, and availability are determined solely by the relevant financial institution and are subject to change. Verify all material information directly with the institution before acting on it.
This page does not constitute financial advice. Consult a qualified accountant, financial advisor, or lender before making any financing decision.
