In the dynamic landscape of small business ownership, securing adequate funding is often the linchpin for success. Fortunately, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers an array of funding programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of entrepreneurs, providing access to capital when conventional financing may be out of reach. Check out your options in the Small Business Resource Guide, 2024 National Edition. As a Preferred Lender, you can count on Falcon National Bank and our SBA team...

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In the world of entrepreneurship, a well-crafted business plan serves as the cornerstone of success, guiding you through the details of structuring, operating, and expanding your venture. Whether seeking funding, attracting partners, or steering your company toward growth, a carefully formulated business plan is your indispensable tool for navigating the competitive landscape with confidence. Explore example business plans and tap into expert guidance from the U.S. Small Business Administration...

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Embarking on the journey of starting a business entails a meticulous blend of vision, strategy, and legal adherence. Outlined within the pages of the Small Business Resource Guide, 2024 National Edition, are ten pivotal steps, each crucial for laying the groundwork and fostering the growth of your venture. From conducting thorough market research to selecting the ideal business structure, every facet is addressed to equip you with the tools needed for success. Find out more about how to start...

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Starting a business requires more than just a groundbreaking idea; it requires an understanding of the logistical, regulatory, and strategic intricacies involved. Everything from market research, to zoning, to taxes and insurance, to employment and intellectual property, dive into the foundational principles in the Small Business Resource Guide, 2024 National Edition, created by the U.S. Small Business Administration. And when you are ready to take that next step, our SBA team is here to help!

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Kasasa checking accounts offer monthly rewards that blow most other accounts away...as long as you meet a few qualifications. One of those is swiping your debit card a certain number of times each month. But if you’re like most people, you also have a credit card that offers rewards too. When faced with the question of how to get all your Kasasa debit card swipes, and still earn credit card rewards, we understand your dilemma. You aren't swiping either card just for the rewards....

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A question many potential home buyers ask when applying for a mortgage is: Should I pay off debt before applying for a home loan? Credit card debt, auto loans and other forms of debt can all have an impact on a person's credit score, which in turn affects the rate they are able to get on their mortgage (or their ability to qualify in the first place). The answer isn't always as simple as a yes or a no, but there are a few figures to keep in mind that can aid in making this decision. Potential...

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We get brand loyalty. You’ve been using the same kind of toothpaste for over a decade, there’s only one type of coffee that tastes right in the morning, a small handful of sources you trust to deliver you news. But when is the last time you second-guessed your bank? A lot of us sign up early in our financial lives with a national bank, maybe one offering painless on-campus signup to freshmen, or the one you went with because they have branches everywhere you go. That national bank...

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Your credit score plays an important role in many aspects of your life, from the rate you get on a car loan to passing a background check for your dream job. In lots of little ways, having bad credit can keep you from achieving your short- and long-term plans. Luckily, improving your credit score isn't a mystery; it is a simple process that you just need to follow consistently. Step 1: Check your credit score You cannot begin to make changes to your credit score if you...

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At its core, banking is all about bank accounts providing cash, which financial institutions use to make loans. But since there’s much more to it than that, here’s a look at what goes into the calculation so you can shop for the best rates for you. Interest rates on loans How do banks and credit unions determine the interest rate you pay on your loan (Annual Percentage Rate). There are several factors. Your credit score: You might see an advertisement for a great rate...

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1. Americans are anchored by credit-card debt. Credit card debt is held by homeowners and renters, college graduates or Americans who entered the work force with a high school diploma of GED, so it is understandable that credit card debt spans across all demographics of the country. Almost half of Americans carry credit card debt to the tune of $807 billion, with the average interest rate hovering near 16%. 2. Yes, there is such a thing as good debt. Of course, not all loan debt is...

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