As part of its SBA lending initiative in the family entertainment centers business segment, Live Oak Bank has formed a partnership with the Bowling Proprietors’ Association of America (BPAA), the bank announced earlier this month.

“As part of the BPAA’s ‘Smart Buy’ program, member centers will now have access to financing options specifically addressing the needs of the Bowling and Entertainment industry,” the bank’s news release stated.

The new partnership is similar to others the bank has established with professional associations in its other lending sectors, said Ben Jones, Live Oak’s family entertainment center specialist.

“We try to establish relationships we think are going to be mutual in every respect,” he explained in an interview, saying that not only does the partnership give Live Oak Bank entrée into the bowling industry, but “the entire bowling community will benefit from a relationship with Live Oak Bank; having access to capital and people that understand their industry and their hopes and dreams.”

The bank, a major SBA lender, “can assist Bowling and Entertainment Centers with construction, refinance, expansion, and remodel and working capital loans,” the release stated.