The U.S. Small Business Administration's Hawai'i office provided a record number of loans in the 12-month period ending Sept. 30, according to the SBA Hawai'i district office.

The local office helped to issue 523 small business loans during that period, an increase of 29 percent from the same period in 2007. The loans topped $57.9 million, up 6 percent from the previous year.

Twenty-three financial institutions provided financing for small business loans that are guaranteed by the SBA.

Bank of Hawaii led all financial institutions with 87 loans, worth $9.6 million, and was named Lender of the Year for Category 1. Central Pacific Bank claimed first place in Category 2 by providing 65 loans valued at $5.9 million.

Andrew Poepoe, SBA district director, credited participating lenders for their commitment to small businesses, particularly during these tough economic times.

"Our banks continue to work with small businesses and we haven't seen a slowdown of lending in our territory," Poepoe said. The Hawai'i district office's jurisdiction also includes Guam.

For information about financing tools and eligibility, call the SBA at 541-2990 or visit www.sba.gov.