WILMINGTON, N.C., Oct. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Live Oak Bank has been named the top SBA 7(a) lender by dollar amount, according to rankings from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The SBA posted the rankings on its website. They cover the agency's 2026 fiscal year, which ended Sept. 30, 2026.

"Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy, and the SBA 7(a) program is one of the most effective tools we have to help them start, grow and create jobs in their communities," said James S. (Chip) Mahan III, chairman and CEO of Live Oak Bancshares. "Being recognized as the nation's most active 7(a) lender is a tremendous honor, and it reflects our responsibility to keep capital flowing to the entrepreneurs who power local economies across the country."

Live Oak approved 2,411 loans under the flagship 7(a) program this fiscal year, putting more than $2.58 billion into the hands of small business owners nationwide.

"Live Oak's model is built around deep industry expertise, a dedicated team of specialists and technology that makes the borrowing experience simpler," said William C. (BJ) Losch III, president of Live Oak Bank. "By focusing on the industries we know best and serving customers from application through closing and beyond, we help entrepreneurs move faster and with greater confidence. This recognition reflects the work our team does every day to be America's bank for small businesses."

About Live Oak Bancshares

Live Oak Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE:LOB) is a financial holding company and parent company of Live Oak Bank. Live Oak Bancshares and its subsidiaries partner with businesses that share a groundbreaking focus on service and technology to redefine banking. To learn more, visit liveoak.bank.

Contact:

Madison Carlos

Live Oak Bank, Corporate Communications

910.386.6616

media.relations@liveoak.bank