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.
1West is proud to announce its latest industry recognition: the 1West LendingTree Award. This milestone reflects the company’s continued commitment to delivering real value to small business owners across the United States. Recognized as a Top 3 Rated Partner in Customer Satisfaction for Q1 2026, 1West continues to focus on
Heavy equipment can be one of the biggest investments a small business will make. Construction firms, logistics providers, and agricultural operations all rely on reliable machinery to stay productive. The challenge is cost. Purchasing equipment upfront can strain cash flow and limit flexibility. That is where asset financing like heavy
Succession planning in a family business is one of the most significant responsibilities a leader faces especially when facing his or her retirement. Many entrepreneurs focus entirely on daily operations or immediate growth. However, a transition of power is inevitable for every organization. A well-constructed business succession plan ensures that
Every business owner knows the frustration of seeing a perfect market opportunity but lacking the immediate cash to seize it. Whether it is a bulk inventory discount or a sudden chance to expand, timing is everything. Fortunately, the “old way” of waiting weeks for a bank’s permission is no longer
The transition from a business operator to a retiree is a multifaceted process. Planning for a business owner retiring and selling their interest requires a timeline that spans two to five years. This lead time ensures the company is attractive to potential buyers. It also confirms the owner is emotionally
Growth often signals that a business is moving in the right direction. Increased demand, steady sales, or new market opportunities may encourage owners to consider expanding operations. This stage can feel exciting, but it also requires thoughtful planning especially when it comes to financing. Expansion usually involves several new expenses.
Owning a new or foreclosed home means building equity over time. Many homeowners look to that equity when they need funds for repairs, debt consolidation, or large expenses. A common concern quickly comes up, though. What happens if your credit score is not ideal? Many borrowers assume lenders will automatically
Foreclosed homes often attract buyers who want to purchase property at a lower price. These homes usually enter the market after an owner fails to meet mortgage obligations. Lenders then move forward with foreclosure to recover losses. As a result, pricing can look appealing. That initial appeal, however, can hide
The food truck industry has exploded in popularity across the United States, giving entrepreneurs a flexible and mobile way to serve customers. But while it can be more affordable than opening a traditional restaurant, the upfront costs are still significant, especially for equipment. A single truck often needs a full
Managing business finances often involves using separate systems for invoicing, payroll, banking, accounting, and bookkeeping. These tools might work well individually, but when they don’t sync, tasks can become repetitive, time-consuming, and prone to errors. Finance integration addresses this problem by connecting financial tools into a single system. With integrated
