In the world of SBICs, decision makers at the SBA can approve only those applicants who demonstrate that they can successfully execute their business plans. One of the best ways you can win the SBA’s confidence is by showing them that you’ve already successfully attracted a number of limited partners (not to mention, a team of experienced managers). For example, unless you’ve already raised the required minimum amount of capital, your new application will sit at the bottom of the SBA’s pile. Happily, in the last few years, more and more banks and institutional investors are finding investing in SBICs to be attractive. While some investors have historically been shy about leveraged funds, the SBA has been heavily promoting the program, and new potential LPs are being targeted. Yet it takes a lot of work to fundraise -- raising adequate capital early in the application process is now mandatory.
--- CHAIRED BY Corey L. Sclar, Managing Partner Brookside Mezzanine Partners
MARQUEE SPONSOR Pepper Hamilton LLP Michael B. Staebler, Partner & Head of the SBIC Law Practice
CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS CohnReznick LLP Christopher G. Aroh, Partner PEF Services LLC David B. Gerogosian, Executive Vice President
