Why access to capital matters more than ever
By: Peter Salas, Florida SBA Sales Manager, Regions Bank
Key points:
- • Access to working capital remains a major challenge for Florida manufacturers.
- • Specialized SBA financing programs offer flexible solutions for production and growth.
- • Greater awareness and collaboration can help manufacturers access underutilized funding opportunities.
October 2026 — Across Florida, manufacturers are navigating a period of significant change. Supply chains continue to evolve, companies are investing in new technologies, and businesses are looking for ways to strengthen operations while positioning themselves for growth. Yet, in conversations with manufacturing leaders across the state, one challenge consistently rises to the top: access to capital.
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Over the past several months, I have met with several manufacturing associations across the state and Tampa Bay. While each business faces unique circumstances, a common theme has emerged. Manufacturers are looking for financing solutions that can help them manage growth, navigate uncertainty, and capitalize on new opportunities.
That feedback aligns with broader trends reshaping the industry.
Manufacturers are carrying more inventory to improve supply chain resiliency, investing in technology and automation to address workforce pressures, and adapting to changing customer demands. At the same time, many are working to strengthen domestic supply chains and expand production capacity. These efforts create opportunity, but they also increase the need for working capital.
While many manufacturers are familiar with financing options for equipment, machinery, and facilities, working capital often presents a different challenge. Businesses frequently need to purchase raw materials, hire employees, increase inventory, and fulfill orders long before revenue is collected. As production grows, those cash-flow demands can grow right alongside it.
As a result, access to working capital has become an increasingly important component of long-term business strategy.
What are the options?
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) introduced the Manufacturer’s Access to Revolving Credit (MARC) program. Designed specifically for manufacturers, MARC provides flexible revolving credit that can help businesses purchase inventory, support production needs, and pursue growth opportunities.
What makes MARC especially significant is that it addresses a challenge many manufacturers have identified for years. Traditional financing plays a critical role in supporting equipment and real estate investments, but manufacturers often need ongoing access to capital that aligns with the realities of how their businesses operate.
Just as important, our conversations across Florida have revealed a notable awareness gap.
Manufacturing association leaders consistently identify access to capital as a top concern among their members, yet many manufacturers are only beginning to learn about specialized SBA solutions designed to support working capital and growth. In many cases, business owners simply are not aware these programs exist.
That is why education has become such an important part of the conversation.
Recently, Regions Bank partnered with the Bay Area Manufacturers Association to host an educational session focused on access to capital and SBA financing solutions. Nearly 20 manufacturing business owners and leaders participated, demonstrating strong interest in learning more about available resources. Regions also continues outreach through chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, and business groups across the state.
These discussions consistently reinforce the same message: Manufacturers want practical solutions that can help them grow, and they are eager to learn more about the options available.
While MARC has generated significant interest, it is not the only SBA solution manufacturers can leverage. The SBA’s Working Capital Pilot (WCP) and Export Working Capital Program (EWCP) can help businesses address inventory needs, support operational growth and pursue opportunities in international markets.
An opportunity to work together
Collectively, MARC, WCP, and EWCP represent specialized financing solutions that remain relatively underutilized across the manufacturing sector. They also represent an opportunity for lenders, economic development leaders, and industry organizations to work together to improve awareness and access.
Regions is among a limited number of financial institutions in Florida currently offering all three programs. More importantly, our team has invested in helping manufacturers understand how these solutions can support growth, improve flexibility, and strengthen competitiveness.
The broader takeaway extends beyond any single program.
Manufacturing remains a critical contributor to Florida’s economy, supporting jobs, innovation, and business investment across communities large and small. As manufacturers adapt to evolving market conditions, access to capital will continue to play a vital role in their ability to expand, invest, and compete.
Growth requires more than machinery, equipment, and facilities. It also requires the working capital that keeps production moving, inventory flowing, and customer demand fulfilled. For many manufacturers, understanding how to access that capital may prove to be one of the most important advantages they can have in the years ahead.
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