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

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.

Financial planning scene with cash and calculator tied to credit score needed for business loan

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 documents, review your finances, and start comparing lenders. Then the question comes up. What credit score do you actually need to secure a business loan? It’s a fair concern. Lenders use credit scores to assess risk, and

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • April 17, 2026
Business finance review scene highlighting what happens if you don't pay a loan back

What Happens If You Don’t Pay a Loan Back?

Running a business means managing uncertainty. Even with careful planning, cash flow can tighten, expenses can pile up, and revenue can decrease.  When this happens, a loan payment suddenly becomes harder to make. Many business owners hesitate. Some wait, hoping the next month will be better, while others avoid the

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • February 10, 2026
Person reviewing loan options on a laptop at home while comparing secured loan vs unsecured loan structures

Secured vs. Unsecured Loan: Understanding the Differences

Choosing the right loan can affect cash flow, risk exposure, and long-term flexibility. For many borrowers, the first major decision comes down to structure. This is where the comparison between a secured loan and an unsecured loan becomes important. The difference is often misunderstood. Some assume one option is always

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • January 28, 2026
A close-up of a hand passing a set of brass keys to another person, symbolizing the successful closing of commercial real estate loans

How to Get a Commercial Real Estate Loan

Owning or investing in commercial property is a major business decision. It often supports long-term growth, stable income, or operational control. For many owners, the process begins with understanding commercial real estate loans and how they work in real-world situations. A commercial real estate loan is designed for properties used

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • December 29, 2025