I trying to work with a Canadian VAR and starting a franchise office for them in here in the US. We do IT network solutions specializing in the area of network security and LAN/WAN connectivity.

From my available funds, I have calculated that I only have a few months to get this business "off the ground." So, I was thinking that some financing would be needed. I have gone to SBA.gov and other web sites, but none of the information is straight forward enough for me (at least at first glance).

Before I do the rest of my hot and heavy research, has anyone out there gotten an SBA loan before?

Did you use the money to pay yourself a salary while you got the business going?

Did the loan become an "albatross around your neck" even after the business started going?

Do you have any suggestions for sources of good information?

Thanks In Advance,
Jim B.