Amusement and Theme Parks
713110
North State Bank (NC)
Dogwood State Bank (NC)
Celtic Bank Corporation (UT)
Bank Five Nine (WI)
Bank Five Nine is a full-service, independent, community bank serving Southeast WI since 1859. Top SBA lender in the country. Find a location near you.
SBA Loans for Amusement and Theme Parks: Financing Growth in Family Entertainment
Introduction
Amusement and theme parks deliver exciting recreational experiences for families, tourists, and communities. Classified under NAICS 713110 – Amusement and Theme Parks, this industry includes large-scale theme parks, water parks, and smaller local amusement centers. While demand for family entertainment continues to grow, operators face financial challenges such as high capital expenditures, ongoing maintenance, seasonal attendance, labor costs, and competition from digital entertainment options.
This is where SBA Loans for Amusement and Theme Parks can provide vital financial support. Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA loans offer long repayment terms, lower down payments, and government-backed guarantees. These loans help park operators invest in rides, expand attractions, upgrade facilities, and stabilize cash flow during off-peak months.
In this article, we’ll explore NAICS 713110, the financial challenges amusement park operators face, how SBA loans provide solutions, and answers to frequently asked questions from business owners in the entertainment sector.
Industry Overview: NAICS 713110
Amusement and Theme Parks (NAICS 713110) include businesses that operate:
- Large-scale theme parks
- Water parks and aquatic attractions
- Local amusement centers and fun parks
- Adventure and thrill ride facilities
- Seasonal or regional amusement attractions
This industry is asset-heavy and guest-experience-driven, requiring consistent investment in rides, safety, and customer engagement.
Common Pain Points in Amusement Park Financing
From Reddit’s r/Entrepreneur, r/AmusementParks, and Quora discussions, amusement park operators often highlight these challenges:
- High Capital Costs – Roller coasters, water slides, and attractions require millions in upfront investment.
- Maintenance Expenses – Safety inspections, ride upkeep, and facility repairs are ongoing financial pressures.
- Labor Shortages – Recruiting and training seasonal staff can be difficult and expensive.
- Seasonal Attendance – Weather and school schedules significantly impact guest traffic.
- Insurance Costs – Liability, workers’ comp, and ride safety coverage increase overhead.
How SBA Loans Help Amusement and Theme Parks
SBA financing provides affordable, flexible capital that helps amusement parks modernize rides, expand attractions, and manage operations more efficiently.
SBA 7(a) Loan
- Best for: Working capital, payroll, or refinancing high-interest debt
- Loan size: Up to $5 million
- Why it helps: Provides liquidity for payroll, vendor payments, and marketing during seasonal fluctuations
SBA 504 Loan
- Best for: Rides, attractions, or long-term facility investments
- Loan size: Up to $5.5 million
- Why it helps: Ideal for purchasing new rides, upgrading infrastructure, or expanding guest facilities
SBA Microloans
- Best for: Small amusement centers or startup attractions
- Loan size: Up to $50,000
- Why it helps: Useful for arcade equipment, small rides, or marketing campaigns
SBA Disaster Loans
- Best for: Parks impacted by storms, floods, or emergencies
- Loan size: Up to $2 million
- Why it helps: Provides recovery funds for damaged rides, lost revenue, or facility repairs
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an SBA Loan
- Check Eligibility – Must be a U.S.-based, for-profit entertainment business with good personal credit (typically 650+)
- Prepare Financial Documents – Include tax returns, P&L statements, ride purchase agreements, and insurance records
- Find an SBA-Approved Lender – Some lenders specialize in hospitality and entertainment financing
- Submit Application – Provide a business plan highlighting attractions, guest demographics, and growth strategies
- Underwriting & Approval – SBA guarantees reduce lender risk. Approval generally takes 30–90 days
FAQ: SBA Loans for Amusement and Theme Parks
Why do banks often deny loans to amusement parks?
Banks may view amusement parks as risky due to high capital costs, seasonal revenue, and liability risks. SBA guarantees reduce this risk and improve approval chances.
Can SBA loans finance rides, attractions, and guest facilities?
Yes. SBA 7(a) and 504 loans can fund major rides, arcade expansions, water slides, and facility improvements.
What down payment is required?
SBA loans typically require 10–20% down, compared to 25–30% for conventional amusement park financing.
Are startup amusement centers eligible?
Yes. Entrepreneurs with strong business plans and market demand may qualify for SBA microloans or 7(a) financing.
What repayment terms are available?
- Working capital: Up to 7 years
- Equipment/facilities: Up to 10 years
- Real estate/parks: Up to 25 years
Can SBA loans support marketing and event programming?
Absolutely. Many amusement and theme parks use SBA financing to fund digital marketing, seasonal events, and community outreach programs.
Final Thoughts
The Amusement and Theme Parks industry provides joy and entertainment but faces financial hurdles tied to rides, staffing, and seasonality. SBA Loans for Amusement Parks provide affordable, flexible financing to stabilize operations, expand attractions, and improve guest experiences.
Whether you operate a regional amusement park, a family fun center, or a water park, SBA financing can provide the resources you need. Connect with an SBA-approved lender today and explore your funding options under NAICS 713110.
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