SYRACUSE, N.Y. – On the heels of launching its new business services department, Empire Federal Credit Union is now offering SBA 7(a) loans. The $295 million credit union launched its business services department this fall. The SBA alliance allows Empire FCU to meet the needs of the "little guy," according to Michele Martin, vice president of business services at the credit union. Empire FCU's Business Solutions' offerings includes term loans; real estate loans; lines of credit; corporate credit cards; business checking; bill payment; and money market accounts. "The SBA program is targeted at companies who are just starting out or making a major change, have collateral shortfalls, or need longer terms than are usually offered," the credit union said. "Loans through the program give Empire members more access to capital for both business start-up and expansion." More than 250 credit unions are now authorized SBA 7(a) loan program lenders. Loan production with the SBA through approved credit union lenders has produced 1,172 loans, totaling $122,695,618 in loan guarantees, as of Sept. 30.