E-commerce and Dropshipping with SBA in Nashville NOW!

Unleashing Your Nashville Dreams: Funding Your E-commerce and Dropshipping Business with SBA 7(a) Loans

NASHVILLE, TN – JULY 26, 2025: Nashville, Tennessee, is more than just Music City; it’s a rapidly expanding economic hub, ripe with opportunity for ambitious entrepreneurs. If you’re a small business owner considering launching or scaling an E-commerce and Dropshipping business, you’re tapping into one of the most dynamic sectors of the 2025 economy. The low overhead, vast market reach, and flexibility of online retail make it incredibly appealing, whether you’re based in the bustling Gulch (37203), the artistic East Nashville (37206), or the suburban charm of Franklin (37064).

E-commerce and Dropshipping Business with SBA:

This comprehensive guide will illuminate how an SBA 7(a) Loan can be the pivotal financial instrument for your E-commerce and Dropshipping business, transforming your online aspirations into tangible success.

The Power and Potential of an E-commerce and Dropshipping Business

An E-commerce and Dropshipping business allows you to sell products online without holding any inventory yourself. When a customer places an order, you simply purchase the item from a third-party supplier, who then ships it directly to the customer. This model significantly reduces startup costs, inventory risks, and logistics headaches, making it an ideal venture for first-time entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike.

Imagine launching a niche online boutique selling sustainable home goods to a global audience from your base in Berry Hill (37204), or establishing a dropshipping store for unique musical instruments, capitalizing on Nashville’s heritage, from your office in Midtown (37203). The economic drivers of Nashville, including its burgeoning tech scene, strong tourism, and diverse consumer base, provide a fertile ground for digital ventures of all kinds.

Are You an SBA Real Estate Loan Expert?

Test your in-depth knowledge on using SBA Loans for owner-occupied commercial Real Estate acquisition. These questions delve into the critical details that can impact your business's growth and financial strategy.

Start Quiz

Page 1 of 5

For an existing commercial property, what is the minimum owner-occupancy percentage required for an SBA 7(a) real estate loan, and does this specific scenario qualify?

A manufacturing company plans to acquire a 30,000 sq ft industrial real estate facility using an SBA 7(a) Loan. The company initially needs 18,000 sq ft for its operations and intends to lease out the remaining 12,000 sq ft.

A) 60%; Yes, it qualifies. B) 51%; Yes, it qualifies. C) 75%; No, it does not qualify. D) 60%; No, it does not qualify, as they are leasing out a portion.

Page 2 of 5

Which of the following sets most accurately represents additional cost categories that can typically be financed within an SBA 504 Loan for a commercial real estate project?

Hint: Beyond the straightforward purchase of a commercial real estate property, an SBA 504 Loan is highly effective for comprehensive projects.

A) Business inventory, working capital, and employee salaries. B) Building renovations, long-term machinery essential to operations within the property, and soft costs like architectural fees. C) Advertising expenses, short-term equipment leases, and utility deposits. D) Personal real estate investments, vehicles for personal use, and stock market investments.

Page 3 of 5

Between an SBA 7(a) Loan and an SBA 504 Loan, which program generally offers the lowest typical borrower down payment for a commercial real estate acquisition, and what is that common minimum percentage for established businesses?

A highly profitable professional services firm in a competitive market wants to purchase its office real estate with minimal upfront capital. The firm's owners prioritize cash flow and liquidity.

A) SBA 7(a) Loan; 15% B) SBA 504 Loan; 10% C) SBA 7(a) Loan; 5% D) SBA 504 Loan; 20%

Page 4 of 5

For new construction, what is the initial minimum owner-occupancy percentage required, and what is the maximum timeframe to meet the full owner-occupancy threshold, for an SBA Real Estate Loan?

A fast-growing tech startup plans to construct a new 50,000 sq ft headquarters using an SBA Loan. They will immediately occupy 35,000 sq ft and have a definitive plan to occupy the remaining 15,000 sq ft within two years as their team expands.

A) Initial 51%, full 80% within 5 years. B) Initial 60%, full 80% within 3 years. C) Initial 75%, full 100% within 1 year. D) Initial 51%, full 100% within 2 years.

Page 5 of 5

What is this crucial requirement, and what fundamental principle does it underscore for the lender?

When securing an SBA Loan for a commercial real estate purchase, principal owners with a 20% or greater ownership stake are almost universally required to provide a specific type of assurance beyond the collateral of the real estate itself.

A) A fixed-rate interest payment commitment, demonstrating long-term stability. B) A first-lien position on all personal assets, ensuring full recovery. C) A personal guarantee, signifying the owners' personal commitment to loan repayment. D) A business plan with projected revenue growth of at least 15% annually, showing future viability.

Ready to send

Please provide your contact information to proceed.

Email Address *

First Name *

Consent *

Yes, I agree with the privacy policy and terms and conditions.

Submit

Funding Your Digital Empire: Why SBA 7(a) Loans are a Strategic Choice

For an E-commerce and Dropshipping business, capital is essential for marketing, website development, software subscriptions, and scaling operations. Traditional bank loans might be hesitant to fund businesses without significant physical assets, and personal loans can carry high interest rates. This is where the SBA 7(a) Loan program emerges as a powerful, government-backed solution designed to empower small businesses.

GHC Funding is your expert partner in securing SBA 7(a) Loans. Unlike the often-impersonal process with larger financial institutions, we specialize in understanding the unique needs of small businesses, particularly those operating in the e-commerce space. Our deep expertise in navigating the SBA process, combined with personalized guidance and a streamlined application, makes GHC Funding the preferred lender for your online venture.

Navigating SBA 7(a) Loans: An Essential Quiz for Small Business Owners

Test your knowledge on the SBA's most popular loan program, designed to fuel business growth and expansion - SBA 7(a) Loans!

Start Quiz

Page 1 of 5

What is the SBA 7(a) Loan program, and how does it facilitate small business growth and development within the United States economy? a) The SBA 7(a) Loan program is a direct lending initiative by the Small Business Administration, providing government-backed loans with fixed interest rates and repayment terms, specifically designed to support the operational needs of startups and established small businesses, thereby fostering economic growth by enabling access to capital that might not be available through conventional banking channels. b) The SBA 7(a) Loan program acts as a guarantor, partnering with participating banks and credit unions to reduce their risk in lending to small businesses; this guarantee allows these financial institutions to offer more favorable terms, such as lower interest rates and extended repayment periods, ultimately stimulating entrepreneurship and job creation across various sectors of the U.S. economy. c) The SBA 7(a) Loan program is a federal grant program that provides funding to small businesses without requiring repayment, aimed at promoting innovation and research and development within key industries to enhance the competitive edge of American small businesses in the global market. d) The SBA 7(a) Loan program is a venture capital fund managed by the Small Business Administration, investing directly in high-growth potential startups in exchange for equity, focusing on technology and manufacturing sectors to drive economic expansion and technological advancement.

Page 2 of 5

What are the typical eligibility requirements for securing an SBA 7(a) Loan, and how do these criteria ensure that the funds are directed towards viable small businesses with the potential for long-term success? a) Eligibility for an SBA 7(a) Loan primarily depends on the applicant's credit score and the submission of a comprehensive business plan, with a minimum credit score of 700 required to demonstrate financial responsibility and a detailed plan to outline the business's operational strategies and financial projections, ensuring the SBA's investment is in well-managed and strategically planned ventures. b) The SBA 7(a) Loan eligibility criteria include the business's operational history, typically requiring at least two years of operation to establish a track record, the applicant's personal investment in the business to ensure commitment, and demonstration of sufficient cash flow to manage loan repayments, all aimed at mitigating risk and supporting businesses with proven sustainability. c) To qualify for an SBA 7(a) Loan, applicants must present collateral valued at least equal to the loan amount to secure the loan, undergo a rigorous background check to ensure no prior financial misconduct, and provide audited financial statements for the past three years to verify financial stability and operational transparency. d) SBA 7(a) Loan eligibility is determined by a lottery system, where all applicants meeting basic criteria such as having a registered business and a valid tax ID are entered into a random selection process, reflecting the SBA's commitment to equitable access to funding for all small businesses regardless of their financial history or business scale.

Page 3 of 5

How can small businesses utilize funds obtained through the SBA 7(a) Loan program, and what specific expenditures qualify under the program’s guidelines to support business operations and expansion? a) SBA 7(a) Loan funds can be used for a wide array of business needs, including purchasing real estate to establish a physical presence, acquiring equipment to enhance operational efficiency, covering working capital to manage day-to-day expenses, and refinancing existing debt to improve cash flow, providing comprehensive financial support for various stages of business development. b) The SBA 7(a) Loan program restricts the use of funds to marketing and advertising campaigns aimed at increasing brand awareness, covering employee salaries to maintain staffing levels, and investing in research and development to innovate new products or services, focusing on stimulating demand and operational capacity. c) Funds from an SBA 7(a) Loan are exclusively designated for international expansion efforts, such as establishing overseas offices, funding export activities, and covering legal fees associated with international trade compliance, to support small businesses in accessing global markets. d) SBA 7(a) Loan funds are limited to investments in the stock market to generate additional revenue for the business, covering personal expenses of the business owner to ensure financial stability, and contributing to political campaigns to influence policy favorable to small businesses.

Page 4 of 5

What are the key differences between the SBA 7(a) Loan program and other SBA loan programs, such as the 504 Loan Program or the Microloan Program, and how do these distinctions cater to the diverse financing needs of small businesses? a) The SBA 7(a) Loan is designed for broader purposes, including working capital and debt refinancing, while the 504 Loan Program focuses on real estate and equipment purchases, and the Microloan Program offers smaller loans for startups and very small businesses, each tailored to specific financial requirements and stages of business development. b) Unlike the SBA 7(a) Loan, which requires extensive documentation and a rigorous approval process, the 504 Loan Program offers expedited approval with minimal paperwork, and the Microloan Program is exclusively available to non-profit organizations and cooperatives, reflecting the SBA's diverse support mechanisms for various business structures. c) The SBA 7(a) Loan program is the only SBA initiative that provides direct funding without involving third-party lenders, whereas the 504 Loan Program operates as a grant program with no repayment required, and the Microloan Program is specifically designed for businesses in the technology sector with high-growth potential. d) While the SBA 7(a) Loan program is characterized by its variable interest rates, the 504 Loan Program offers fixed rates, and the Microloan Program is unique in that it allows funds to be used for personal expenses of the business owner, showcasing the SBA's flexible approach to meet varied financial needs.

Page 5 of 5

How does the SBA 7(a) Loan program contribute to job creation and economic stability within local communities, and what are some examples of businesses that have successfully utilized this program to achieve significant growth and impact? a) The SBA 7(a) Loan program stimulates job creation by enabling small businesses to expand operations, hire more employees, and invest in employee training, thereby reducing unemployment rates and fostering economic stability in local communities; examples include manufacturing companies that have scaled up production, retail businesses that have opened new locations, and tech startups that have commercialized innovative products. b) The SBA 7(a) Loan program primarily supports the arts and culture sector by providing funding for museums, theaters, and galleries, thereby enhancing the cultural landscape of communities without direct impact on job creation or broad economic stability. c) Through the SBA 7(a) Loan program, funds are directed towards lobbying efforts to influence government policies, which, while beneficial to small businesses, does not directly translate into job creation or community economic stability. d) The SBA 7(a) Loan program focuses on providing financial assistance to large corporations rather than small businesses, which, while contributing to the national economy, has limited impact on job creation and economic stability at the local community level.

Ready to send

Please provide your contact information to proceed.

Email Address *

First Name *

Consent *

Yes, I agree with the privacy policy and terms and conditions.

Submit

Current Market Insights: SBA 7(a) Loan Rates (as of July 26, 2025)

Interest rates for SBA 7(a) loans are competitive and typically linked to the Prime Rate, plus a lender-specific margin. As of today, July 26, 2025, with the Prime Rate around 7.5%, you can expect SBA 7(a) loan interest rates to range from approximately 10.5% to 15.5%.

The specific rate your E-commerce and Dropshipping business qualifies for will depend on several factors:

• Business Credit Score: A robust business credit history demonstrates your company’s financial responsibility, often leading to more favorable rates.
• Time in Business: More established e-commerce ventures with a proven track record tend to secure better terms.
• Annual Revenue: Higher and consistent revenue indicates greater capacity for loan repayment.
• Personal Credit Score: Your personal credit history is a significant consideration, as small business owners typically provide a personal guarantee.
• Available Collateral: While SBA 7(a) loans are more flexible regarding collateral than traditional loans, having some assets can strengthen your application.

Empowering Your Online Growth: SBA 7(a) Loan Requirements & Benefits

The SBA 7(a) loan program offers significant advantages that make it an excellent fit for an E-commerce and Dropshipping business looking to expand its reach, whether you’re operating from a home office in Antioch (37013) or a small fulfillment center in Smyrna (37167).

Key Requirements (General for SBA 7(a)):

• For-Profit Operating Business: Your business must be a for-profit entity operating legally within the United States.
• Small Business Size: Your business must meet the SBA’s definition of a small business, based on specific industry codes and revenue/employee thresholds.
• Creditworthiness: You must demonstrate a reasonable ability to repay the loan from your business’s cash flow.
• Inability to Obtain Credit Elsewhere: You generally need to show that you cannot obtain the desired credit on reasonable terms from non-federal sources.
• Personal Guarantee: Business owners with 20% or more equity are typically required to provide a personal guarantee.

Benefits that Propel Your E-commerce Venture:

• Long Repayment Terms: SBA 7(a) loans offer exceptionally long repayment terms, up to 10 years for working capital and equipment. This provides your E-commerce and Dropshipping business with significant financial breathing room to invest in growth, marketing, and product development without being burdened by short-term repayment pressures.
• Lower Down Payment Requirements: Compared to conventional loans, SBA 7(a) loans often require lower down payments, preserving your crucial working capital for marketing campaigns or inventory if you decide to diversify beyond dropshipping.
• Flexible Use of Funds: The versatility of SBA 7(a) funds is a massive advantage for online businesses. You can utilize the capital for:
  • Working Capital: To manage cash flow, invest in digital advertising campaigns (e.g., Google Ads, social media ads), and cover operational expenses.
  • Website Development & Enhancements: Upgrade your e-commerce platform, invest in advanced SEO tools, or hire web developers for custom features.
  • Software & Subscriptions: Pay for essential e-commerce software, analytics tools, and dropshipping platforms.
  • Marketing & Branding: Launch aggressive marketing initiatives to reach new customers.
  • Inventory (if applicable): While dropshipping minimizes inventory, if your business evolves to include some stock, these funds can be used for that.
  • Real Estate (if needed): Acquire or improve a small warehouse or office space in a strategic Nashville location like the airport district (37214) or North Nashville (37207) for logistics or team collaboration.
• No Prepayment Penalties: For loans with terms shorter than 15 years, there are generally no prepayment penalties, offering you financial flexibility. For longer terms, penalties may apply if a significant portion is repaid within the first three years.

Mastering the SBA 504 Loan: Your Essential Guide Quiz

Test your knowledge on the SBA's most popular loan program, designed to fuel business growth and expansion.

Page 1 of 5

What is the primary purpose of the SBA 504 Loan program, and how does it specifically support small businesses in acquiring long-term fixed assets? a) The SBA 504 Loan program provides working capital and debt refinancing for small businesses to manage daily operations and improve cash flow. b) The SBA 504 Loan program offers direct grants to small businesses for innovation and research, without requiring repayment c) The SBA 504 Loan program helps small businesses acquire or expand fixed assets, such as real estate and machinery, by providing long-term, fixed-rate financing with a lower down payment through a partnership between a private-sector lender and a Certified Development Company (CDC). d) The SBA 504 Loan program is designed for short-term financing needs, such as seasonal inventory purchases and temporary staffing solutions, with high-interest rates.

Page 2 of 5

What are the typical eligibility requirements for small businesses seeking an SBA 504 Loan, and how do these criteria ensure that the program targets sustainable growth and job creation? a) Eligibility for an SBA 504 Loan primarily depends on the owner's personal credit score and their ability to provide 100% collateral for the loan amount, regardless of business performance. b) Small businesses must be operational for at least 10 years and have a minimum of 500 employees to qualify for an SBA 504 Loan, emphasizing support for very large enterprises c) To qualify for an SBA 504 Loan, a small business must be for-profit, have a tangible net worth of less than $15 million, and average net income after federal income taxes of less than $5 million for the preceding two years, while also demonstrating the ability to create or retain jobs or meet public policy goals. d) SBA 504 Loan eligibility is based solely on the business's location within an economically distressed area, without consideration for financial viability or job impact

Page 3 of 5

What is the typical financing structure of an SBA 504 Loan, detailing the roles of the private-sector lender, the Certified Development Company (CDC), and the borrower's equity injection? a) The SBA 504 Loan is entirely funded by the Small Business Administration, with no involvement from private banks or the borrower's equity. b) The structure involves a 75% loan from a private lender, 25% from the borrower's equity, and no involvement from a Certified Development Company (CDC) c) An SBA 504 Loan typically consists of three components: a first mortgage loan from a private-sector lender (usually 50% of the project cost), a second mortgage loan from a Certified Development Company (CDC) backed by an SBA guarantee (up to 40% of the project cost), and an equity injection from the borrower (typically 10% or more) d) The financing involves 80% from the borrower's equity, 10% from a private lender, and 10% from the CDC, with the SBA providing a direct subsidy.

Page 4 of 5

What types of fixed assets are typically eligible for financing under the SBA 504 Loan program, and how does this program support various industries in expanding their physical infrastructure? a) The SBA 504 Loan program exclusively finances the purchase of business inventory and short-term operational supplies for retail and service industries. b) Eligible fixed assets include existing buildings, land, new construction, major renovations, and long-term machinery and equipment, supporting a wide range of industries from manufacturing to hospitality in expanding their physical infrastructure. c) Only residential rental properties and speculative real estate developments are eligible for financing under the SBA 504 Loan program, targeting real estate investors. d) The SBA 504 Loan program finances only intangible assets like patents, copyrights, and intellectual property, for technology and creative industries.

Page 5 of 5

What are the key benefits of choosing an SBA 504 Loan over conventional financing for small businesses, particularly concerning interest rates, repayment terms, and down payment requirements? a) SBA 504 Loans typically have higher interest rates and shorter repayment terms than conventional loans, but they offer significantly larger loan amounts without collateral. b) The main benefit of an SBA 504 Loan is the immediate access to cash for emergency business expenses, with no formal application process or credit checks required c) SBA 504 Loans often feature long repayment terms (up to 25 years for real estate), competitive fixed interest rates on the CDC portion, and lower down payment requirements (as little as 10%), preserving a business's working capital compared to conventional financing. d) Conventional financing always offers more flexible terms and lower overall costs than SBA 504 Loans due to fewer government regulations and faster approval times.

Please provide your contact information to proceed.

Email Address *

First Name *

Consent *

Yes, I agree with the privacy policy and terms and conditions.

Start Quiz

GHC Funding: Your Catalyst for E-commerce Success in Nashville

At GHC Funding, we recognize that an E-commerce and Dropshipping business in Nashville, TN, operates in a unique landscape, distinct from traditional brick-and-mortar ventures. We are committed to being more than just a lender; we are your strategic financial partner, dedicated to helping your online business flourish.

• Deep Expertise in SBA Loans: Our team possesses an unparalleled understanding of SBA 7(a) Loans, as well as SBA 504 Loans, Bridge Loans, and Working Capital Solutions. We navigate the intricate SBA application process with precision, ensuring your application is robust and maximizes your chances of approval.
• Personalized Guidance for Your Online Venture: Unlike large, often impersonal banks that may not fully grasp the nuances of e-commerce and dropshipping, we offer tailored support. We take the time to understand your specific business model, your market, and your growth trajectory, providing guidance that resonates with your entrepreneurial journey.
• Streamlined Application Process: We work diligently to make the application process as smooth and efficient as possible, minimizing paperwork and accelerating your time to funding. This allows you to focus on what you do best: growing your E-commerce and Dropshipping business.

Imagine an E-commerce and Dropshipping business in Germantown (37208) looking to expand its product lines and invest heavily in digital advertising. Or a new online venture based out of Bellevue (37221) needing working capital to cover initial software subscriptions and marketing costs. GHC Funding can provide the crucial capital to help these Nashville-based e-commerce ventures thrive. We support retail businesses selling specialty products online from areas like Green Hills (37215), or service-based businesses in Downtown Nashville (37201) leveraging dropshipping to offer complementary physical products.

Test Your Tennessee Investor Insight!

Tennessee, famously known as the "Volunteer State," is a vibrant and growing hub in the American South. From the legendary music scenes of Nashville and Memphis to the stunning peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee offers a diverse landscape and a robust economy. For real estate investors, especially those exploring flexible financing like no income verification rental property loans for new investors, understanding Tennessee's unique appeal is key.

How well do you know this state rich in culture, history, and investment potential? Take our quick quiz!

Start Quiz

Page 1 of 7

1. What is the official nickname of Tennessee, originating from its residents' eagerness to serve in times of war? A) The Music State B) The Volunteer State C) The Cotton State D) The Smoky State

Page 2 of 7

2. Which major Tennessee city is known worldwide as "Music City" and is the capital of country music? A) Memphis B) Knoxville C) Chattanooga D) Nashville

Page 3 of 7

3. What is the capital city of Tennessee? A) Memphis B) Knoxville C) Nashville D) Chattanooga

Page 4 of 7

4. Which city in West Tennessee is famously associated with the blues, rock and roll, and is home to Elvis Presley's Graceland? A) Nashville B) Gatlinburg C) Memphis D) Bristol

Page 5 of 7

5. The eastern part of Tennessee is dominated by which major mountain range, home to the most visited National Park in the U.S.? A) Rocky Mountains B) Blue Ridge Mountains C) Appalachian Mountains D) Ozark Mountains

Page 6 of 7

6. What historic long-running live radio program, showcasing country music legends, originated in Nashville and continues today? A) The Grand Ole Opry B) The Cotton Club C) The Apollo Theater D) Billboard Live

Page 7 of 7

7. Tennessee shares a border with how many other U.S. states, tying it for one of the most bordered states? A) 5 B) 6 C) 7 D) 8

Ready to send

Please provide your contact information to proceed.

Email Address *

First Name *

Consent *

Yes, I agree with the privacy policy and terms and conditions.

Submit

Nashville’s Supportive Ecosystem: External Resources for Your Business

Beyond funding, Nashville offers a vibrant ecosystem of resources to support small business owners. Here are some essential local connections:

• U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Tennessee District Office: The SBA office in Nashville provides invaluable guidance and resources for small businesses. You can find them at 2 International Plaza Dr., Suite 500, Nashville, TN 37217. [Note: While the SBA website provides general info, always verify current contact and service details directly through sba.gov or by calling.]
• SCORE Nashville: For free, expert business mentoring and workshops, SCORE is an unparalleled resource. Their seasoned volunteers can offer guidance on everything from business planning to marketing for your online store. Visit their website at https://www.score.org/nashville.
• Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) Nashville Office: The TSBDC offers no-cost consulting services and training programs to help small businesses start, grow, and succeed. They are a fantastic resource for developing your business plan and marketing strategy. Find them at https://tsbdc.org/center/nashville/.
• Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce: As a central hub for business in Middle Tennessee, the Nashville Area Chamber provides extensive networking opportunities, advocacy, and valuable economic insights. Connect with them at https://www.nashvillechamber.com/.

Q&A: Your E-commerce and Dropshipping Business Funding Questions Answered

Here are common questions small business owners have about funding their E-commerce and Dropshipping business with SBA 7(a) loans:

Chart Your Course for E-commerce Success

The world of E-commerce and Dropshipping business is brimming with potential, especially in a dynamic city like Nashville, TN. Don’t let perceived funding hurdles prevent you from seizing this opportunity. An SBA 7(a) Loan can provide the capital, flexibility, and stability your online venture needs to thrive and scale.

GHC Funding is uniquely equipped to be your trusted financial partner on this journey. We offer the expertise, personalized service, and streamlined process that will make securing your SBA loan a confident and successful experience.

Ready to elevate your E-commerce and Dropshipping business? Visit GHC Funding at www.ghcfunding.com today or call us directly at 833-572-4327 for a personalized consultation. Let’s make your online business dreams a Nashville reality!

Ready to elevate your E-commerce and Dropshipping business?

GHC Funding DSCR LOAN, SBA LOAN, BRIDGE LOAN

At GHC Funding, we are commercial finance specialists who guide real estate investors and business owners through the world of alternative lending. Our primary focus is on securing the right capital for your specific goals, whether that's a cash-flow-based DSCR loan for your rental portfolio, an SBA loan to grow your company, or a bridge loan to close a deal quickly and efficiently.

See Full Bio

DSCR LOAN SBA LOAN BRIDGE LOAN