North Dakota sits along the Canadian border in an area that is noted for its wide open spaces, mountain ranges, and beautiful natural parks. The state is home to around 775,000 people, making it one of the least densely populated areas of the country. It is also one of the fastest growing areas of the country. Today, cities like Fargo and Bismarck are becoming modern communities offering exceptional amenities, entertainment, parks, and services at an affordable cost of living. Even as the population here grows, it remains a state with one of the lowest unemployment rates. Factors such as a good quality of life and economic opportunity, especially in the development of new companies, are making a significant impact on the region. Small businesses are a component of that.
In North Dakota, there are 75,265 small businesses present, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Though many large companies exist here too, including in industries such as agriculture, energy, and healthcare, there are numerous small businesses present that provide even more opportunities. The state has a growing tourism industry, for example, which is often supported by small businesses in food service, artisans, and other providers. Small businesses in the state provide 196,770 jobs for residents here as well. That is more than 25% of the state’s population and much more of the workforce. Total payroll for those companies is $9,131,397, funds that contribute to many households throughout the state.
To support this type of business, small business lenders in North Dakota offer a range of loan options. The most recent data from the U.S. Small Business Administration indicates there are 641 active small business loans in the state, with a total loan volume of $376,528,096. The average loan size here is $587,407. This data shows just how important these lenders are at helping to support not just companies in various industries but so many of the people that live and work in the state.
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How small business loans work in North Dakota
North Dakota small business loans provide a funding option for various business needs to companies in the state with under 100 employees (typically). These loans may be beneficial for many needs, such as business growth opportunities, new product development, hiring more employees, upgrading technology, and adding new locations. With various types of loans available, businesses can often find a wide range of borrowing options to choose from to meet their needs.
North Dakota small business lenders offer a range of loans with a wide range of features. These loans provide a capital infusion for the business with the expectation that the borrower will repay the loan with interest over a pre-set timeframe. Most of the time, there is flexibility in these terms, but it is up to lenders to determine if the borrower is a good risk and to take on the loan or not.
To determine risk, lenders typically gather a significant amount of information about the company. This often includes financial data such as balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and details of the overall financial health of the company. Companies that need funding often must show that they have the financial means to make payments on time. That often means taking into consideration other types of debts the company has as well as the credit history of the company and the owner.
Often, lenders will use the company’s business plan to gain more insight into the operations as well as the ownership. It can also provide insight into the industry, products, and services the company offers. A market analysis can help the lender to see how profitable the company could be.
As a business owner, it helps to know about all of the capital options available since North Dakota small business lenders typically offer a wide range of tools to help companies meet their financial needs. Some of the loan options commonly available in the state include:
- Bank loan
- SBA loan
- Direct loans
- Microloans
- Business term loan
- Business line of credit
- Equipment financing
You are not limited to small business loans from financial institutions alone, though. Small business owners and entrepreneurs might look into local or regional business development organizations, economic development agencies, or a local governments small business development center before turning to loan participation. Specific loans like those for real estate, minority-owned businesses, or those that come with a loan guarantee come with unique requirements for eligibility.
If you have a North Dakota business with a good track record and a clear idea of what you’d do with the loan amount, North Dakota business lending or business financing may be your best bet to cover your needs. With a lending institution or credit union, each will usually have their own eligibility requirements and loan application rules. If you work with a local lender, they may also be able to provide you with further resources on local loan funds or financing options because many banks and credit unions want to support their local region.
A small business loan could help fund the success of a business. Companies should take the time needed to compare options to find those that are best suited for their needs.