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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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At 1West, we value your feedback; it helps us serve small business owners even better. As a thank-you, we’re offering a $10 digital gift card when you leave a valid review on any of the following platforms: TrustpilotGoogleBetter Business Bureau (BBB)LendingTree You can earn one gift card per platform (up

  • by Ryan Spilken
  • October 21, 2025
A desk filled with financial reports, a laptop, calculator, and stacks of cash, representing small business cash flow management during summer slowdown.

Summer Business Cash Flow Tips to Survive the Slowdown

Summer can bring a welcome shift in pace, but for many business owners, it also brings a noticeable slowdown in revenue. Whether it’s due to customer vacations, shifting priorities, or seasonal trends, the warmer months often test how well a company manages its finances.  For small businesses especially, this dip

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • August 4, 2025
A funding advisor explains alternative business funding solutions to a small business owner in a well-lit workspace.

Top Alternative Business Funding Options for SMEs

Getting funding is often one of the biggest hurdles for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). While traditional bank loans have long been the go-to option, they aren’t always accessible, especially for younger businesses or those without strong credit histories. Long approval times, strict collateral requirements, and rigid repayment terms can

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • July 23, 2025
From SBA programs to fast online lenders, explore how to get approved for loans for small business owners and grow your business today.

How to Get a Small Business Loan: A Comprehensive Guide

Securing a small business loan can feel like a big step, whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand. For many entrepreneurs, external funding is necessary to bridge cash flow gaps, purchase equipment, hire staff, or cover day-to-day operational costs.  Choosing the right loan and understanding how to get

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • June 2, 2025
A storefront window displaying a “Yes, We’re Open” sign, symbolizing business growth made possible through top small business loans.

Top Small Business Loans of 2025: A Comprehensive Guide for Entrepreneurs

Finding the right financing can shape the future of your business. In 2025, small business owners are navigating a crowded field of lenders, from traditional banks to digital-first platforms. Each claims to offer the best terms, fastest approvals, or most flexible repayment plans—but how do you know which loan truly

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • June 2, 2025
Person reviewing financial documents with a calculator and laptop, planning short-term commercial loans for business expenses.

Breaking Down Everything You Need to Know About Short-Term Commercial Loans

Running a business comes with plenty of ups and downs, and one of the most common challenges is managing your cash flow. Short-term commercial loans can often be an effective solution to bridge those funding gaps. But how do you know if this financing option is right for you? Short-term

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • March 31, 2025

Can SBA Microloans Actually Help You?

Starting a business takes more than just an idea. You need money to buy supplies, rent space, or pay for licenses—sometimes just a small amount to get things moving. But here’s the problem: most traditional lenders aren’t interested in giving out small loans. If you’re just starting out or have

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • March 31, 2025
A professional businesswoman in a beige blazer sitting at a conference table during a loan application discussion, representing the process of securing commercial loans for business.

How to Apply for a Commercial Loan Online

Running a business often requires financial support. Whether it’s funding for expansion, purchasing new equipment, or covering operational costs, securing the right financing is crucial.  That’s where commercial loans for business come in. These loans provide companies with the capital they need to grow, but finding the right lender and

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • March 13, 2025
A person counting cash while another writes on a notepad near a pink payment terminal, symbolizing small business finances. Learn how to get business funding with bad credit and explore alternative financing options.

Can You Get a Small Business Loan with Bad Personal Credit?

Running a business comes with its fair share of challenges. But if your personal credit score isn’t where you’d like it to be, securing small business funding can feel like an uphill battle. Fortunately, getting a business loan with bad personal credit isn’t impossible. It just takes the right approach.

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • February 20, 2025
A house keychain surrounded by ornate keys on a real estate backdrop, representing real estate investing opportunities.

5 Sources of Funding for Your Real Estate Investing

Real estate investing can be a rewarding way to build wealth, but it requires careful planning—especially when it comes to funding. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned investor, understanding the real estate financing solutions available to you goes a long way.  This guide explores five reliable sources of real

  • by Nathan Armstrong
  • January 31, 2025