How to Buy a Business Without an SBA Loan | Ask Adam Ep. 3

No SBA loan? Sarf asks what other funding options buyers should explore beyond seller financing. Adam Coffey breaks down commercial lenders, raising equity through friends, family and other investors, and approaching family offices. He explains why personal commitment, negotiated investor terms and a well-researched investment thesis matter when asking others to back your deal. Hosted by Logan Skees. Adam spent 21 years as a CEO and executed 58 acquisitions. On Ask Adam, he answers real questions from our community about buying, building and selling businesses. FREE: THE OPPORTUNITY PLAYBOOK Adam's digital book on how to find, fund and buy your dream business. Claim your free copy: https://www.EmpireBuilder.Academy/claim ASK ADAM LIVE Our free, one-hour monthly group Q&A with Adam. The next session date is to be announced. Details: https://www.EmpireBuilder.Academy/ask... CHAPTERS 0:00 Preview 0:37 Welcome and Sarf's funding question 1:15 What the SBA does 3:21 Financing outside the SBA 3:58 Personal guarantees and calculated risk 6:11 Raising equity for the down payment 6:41 Shop banks and compare lenders 7:01 Cost of capital and underwriting 7:56 Friends, family, fools and followers 9:35 Negotiating equity with investors 10:30 Creative capital structures 11:26 Family offices and outside capital 12:33 What makes a good investment thesis? 13:15 Give investors a reason to say yes 14:28 Adam's deal with his brother 16:35 The funding recap 17:00 Wrap-up 17:17 Ask Adam Live 17:47 Empire Builder Academy 18:31 Sign-off What's your biggest obstacle to funding a business purchase? Leave your question for Adam in the comments. Recorded September 25, 2026. Financing rules and lender requirements can change; confirm current terms with your lender. DISCLAIMER This video is for education only. It is not legal, tax, accounting or financial advice. Every deal is different, so talk to your own attorney and accountant before you buy or sell a business. Adam's results as a CEO, including the acquisitions and exits mentioned here, are his own. They are not typical and do not predict your results. Empire Builder Academy provides education only. No earnings are guaranteed; results depend on individual effort. Full terms: https://www.EmpireBuilder.Academy/ter... #AskAdam #BuyingABusiness #BusinessAcquisition