📊 New: 1West Small Business Health Index Q1 2026 — Score: 68.9/100. Small businesses are ready. Capital isn't keeping up. Read the Report →

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1West blog

The beliefs behind the money.

We believe in small business. So we’re inspired by the stories behind them. Read how businesses of all shapes and sizes turned the right loans into their own versions of success.

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A stressed business owner reviewing financial documents with an advisor, illustrating the challenges of managing debt and the benefits of business debt consolidation for simplifying repayments and improving cash flow.
Types of loans - 18 min read

Best Business Debt Consolidation Loans in 2026

Running a business almost always means borrowing at some point. Over time, those...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • June 29, 2026
Business owner reviewing company finances and planning growth on a laptop while evaluating how many lines of credit should you have for future funding needs.
Small business basics - 24 min read

How Many Lines of Credit Should I Have?

If you’re considering opening a new line of credit, you’re not alone. Many...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • June 20, 2026
Laptop displaying an online store beside shopping bags and packaging supplies, representing ecommerce working capital needs for growing online businesses.
Uncategorized - 23 min read

How eCommerce Businesses Can Secure Working Capital

Running an online business comes with constant financial demands. Inventory needs to move...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • May 26, 2026
Business owner reviewing cash flow and business loan fees while counting cash at an office desk.
Uncategorized - 22 min read

Average Business Loan Processing Fees: What to Know About Interest Costs

Business financing can help cover expansion plans, equipment purchases, payroll, inventory, or short-term...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • May 26, 2026
Wooden tiles spelling out "Small Business" on a pink desk calendar, perfect for planning small business month growth strategies.
Small business basics - 14 min read

The Growth Gap: Move Beyond Bootstrapping This Small Business Month

May is Small Business Month, a time to celebrate the grit and independence...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • May 11, 2026
small business health index
Small business basics - 15 min read

Navigating the 2026 Small Business Health Index

Small business owners across the country are demonstrating remarkable resilience as we move...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • May 11, 2026
1West LendingTree Award
Company, Small Business Financing Solutions - 13 min read

1West Earns LendingTree Recognition Award

1West is proud to announce its latest industry recognition: the 1West LendingTree Award....

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • April 24, 2026
Financial planning scene with cash and calculator tied to credit score needed for business loan
Loans - 25 min read

Minimum Credit Score for Business Loan: How Much Do You Need to Expand Your Operations?

Applying for a business loan can feel straightforward at first. You prepare your...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • April 17, 2026
Boom lift in an urban worksite, commonly acquired through financing for heavy equipment
Small Business Financing Solutions - 22 min read

How Financing for Heavy Equipment for Small Businesses Works

Heavy equipment can be one of the biggest investments a small business will...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • April 13, 2026
Retiring business owner in grocery setting during the silver tsunami small business wave
Small business basics - 25 min read

Why Many Small Businesses Are Being Sold Amid the Silver Tsunami

A major shift is taking place across the U.S. small business landscape. It...

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • April 10, 2026