American Riviera Bank (ARB) is proud of its personalized approach to business banking, and nowhere is this more evident than in its Small Business Administration (SBA) lending programs. As a Preferred SBA Lender and the market share leader for SBA 7(a) loans in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties, ARB offers flexible financing options that cater to the unique needs of local businesses. With local decision-making and a deep understanding of the community, ARB’s SBA experts guide business owners through the loan process. At the heart of this service is Annette Jorgensen, ARB’s Business Development Officer, whose personalized approach has helped numerous local businesses thrive, including Dart Coffee Company.
Annette Jorgensen, ARB’s Vice President, SBA Business Development Officer, has been in the banking industry for 34 years. Her extensive knowledge of SBA loans and commitment to helping small businesses grow has made her a trusted partner for many local entrepreneurs. “My door is always wide open,” says Jorgensen, reflecting her hands-on approach and willingness to guide clients through the often complex world of government-guaranteed financing.
Specializing in startup business acquisitions, buyouts, and expansions, she has helped countless business owners navigate SBA loan programs, including the popular 7(a) and 504 loans.
One of her standout clients is David Dart and Erica Carter, the founders of Dart Coffee Company. Interestingly, Dart wasn’t just another client— years ago he was Jorgensen’s dentist. A UCSB alumnus and a career-changing entrepreneur, Dart transitioned from dentistry to launching his own coffee business, and Jorgensen was instrumental in helping secure the financing needed to expand Dart Coffee Company, showcasing ARB’s dedication to personalized, relationship-driven lending.
Dart Coffee Company, a local favorite coffee shop founded by David Dart and Erica Carter, began with a single location in Santa Barbara’s Funk Zone. Dart sought out private financing for this initial venture independently, but as the business grew, so did the need for additional capital.
When the opportunity to open a second location at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum arose, Dart and Carter turned to Annette Jorgensen and ARB for support.
Through the SBA 7(a) loan program, ARB provided the working capital and inventory financing they needed to make their expansion a reality.
This second location quickly became a popular destination for both locals and tourists, thanks to its prime spot in the museum and its integration into the museum’s event space, further enhancing Dart Coffee’s community presence. But the partnership didn’t stop there.
When Dart Coffee decided to open a third location in Carpinteria, Jorgensen was once again there to assist. The new location, expected to open in 2025, involves a new building and a long-term lease, making it a major step forward for the business. With Jorgensen’s help, Dart Coffee secured an SBA loan that provided the working capital needed for this expansion, allowing the business to continue growing while maintaining its high standards.
The SBA 7(a) loan program, which Dart Coffee used, is one of the most flexible options for small businesses. It offers loan guarantees that help businesses secure financing that might not meet conventional lending standards. With terms ranging from 5 to 25 years and loan amounts up to $5 million, the 7(a) loan can be used for everything from real estate purchases and machinery acquisition to working capital and inventory needs.
Since 2023, 30% of ARB’s SBA 7(a) loans have been dedicated to business expansions, showcasing the bank’s commitment to helping local businesses grow and thrive in their communities. This increase in expansion funding highlights a broader trend in the region, where local entrepreneurs are increasingly turning to SBA loans to fuel their growth. With access to flexible, tailored financing solutions like the SBA 7(a) and 504 loan programs, businesses like Dart Coffee are able to scale sustainably, invest in new opportunities, and create lasting economic impact within their communities.
In addition to the 7(a) program, ARB also offers SBA 504 loans, which are ideal for larger projects. These loans are typically structured with 50% of the project costs covered by an ARB loan, 40% financed by a CDC, and a 10% down payment from the borrower. With low down payments, fixed rates, and terms up to 25 years, the 504 loan is an excellent option for businesses looking to finance major expansions or real estate purchases.
At ARB, SBA loans are seen as a stepping stone to more traditional forms of financing. By helping businesses like Dart Coffee Company grow and establish themselves, ARB’s SBA lending programs provide the foundation for long-term success. For many entrepreneurs, SBA loans offer the flexibility and support needed to take their business to the next level.
In Dart Coffee’s case, Annette Jorgensen’s expertise and personal touch were key to unlocking the potential of the SBA 7(a) loan. Through this partnership, Dart Coffee has been able to expand from a single location to multiple venues, each one serving as a testament to the power of community-driven banking.
What sets ARB apart is its commitment to personalization. Every client is treated as a partner, and the team of SBA experts, led by Jorgensen, works closely with each business to understand its unique challenges and goals. By offering local decision-making and in-depth knowledge of the regional economy, ARB provides a level of service that larger banks simply can’t match.
For business owners considering an SBA loan, ARB’s proven track record and dedication to community make it the ideal partner. Whether you’re looking to expand, refinance, or acquire a business, ARB’s SBA lending programs offer the flexibility and support you need to succeed. Just ask David Dart and Erica Carter—Dart Coffee Company’s journey is a perfect example of what’s possible when local businesses have the right partner in their corner.
