Whether your business is launching, expanding, or navigating an unexpected shift, securing capital is a key component of financial stability and growth. Access to resources can empower you to invest in new opportunities, manage cash flow, or weather economic changes. There are numerous options for injecting additional capital into your business operations–each with their own pros and cons. To help you navigate them, our expert Business Banking team at Cornerstone Bank has outlined some options for securing the capital you need.
1. Commercial Loans
For established businesses with good credit looking for financing solutions, commercial loans are a strong option thanks to their typically faster approval and funding timelines compared to other loan types. Importantly, businesses don’t have to give up equity in the company when pursuing this type of financial support. Cornerstone Bank offers a variety of business lending options with competitive rates. Whether you’re investing in equipment, expanding operations, or covering working capital needs, our commercial loan options provide the support you need to move your business forward with structured financing and predictable repayment terms.
2. Small Business & SBA Loans
Small businesses that lack cashflow or have less favorable credit may require specialized lending solutions with lower monthly payments. Cornerstone Bank partners with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to offer SBA 7(a) and SBA 504 loan programs. These loans can help with purchasing real estate, acquiring equipment, refinancing debt, or funding expansion. These types of loans usually offer lower interest rates and longer repayment terms—giving you more time and flexibility without the pressure of an aggressive repayment schedule.
3. Business Lines of Credit & Credit Cards
A business line of credit provides flexibility by allowing you to borrow as needed and, of course, you only pay interest on the amount you use. Instead of applying for a loan every time you need extra cash, a line of credit provides ongoing access to funds. This option is great for businesses with fluctuating income since it can help cover short-term expenses, like payroll, inventory, or seasonal variance in costs, without disrupting operations. Business credit cards can also help build your company’s credit profile.
4. Equipment Financing
Purchasing or upgrading essential equipment can be a significant investment, and equipment financing can help ease that burden. Cornerstone Bank has extensive experience in agricultural and farming operations—specializing in working with clients across generations and providing equipment financing solutions to help businesses acquire machinery, vehicles, and technology without depleting cash reserves.
5. Commercial Real Estate Loans
Commercial real estate loans (sometimes referred to as CREs) are a type of financing used
by businesses, investors, or developers to purchase, refinance, develop, or renovate income-producing properties. These loans are also helpful if your business is growing and you need a physical space to operate (including an office, storefront, warehouse, or another type of commercial property). A commercial real estate loan can help finance the purchase, construction, or renovation of a property, allowing you to build equity instead of paying rent. The Cornerstone Bank team has an extensive history in real estate development. The depth and breadth of our experience working through complex and nuanced commercial real estate challenges means we’ve seen it all, and can help you work through and size up opportunities to craft the ideal lending scenario for your business goals.
6. Business Grants & Assistance Programs
Not all funding has to come from loans. Business grants and assistance programs provide money that doesn’t need to be repaid, making them a valuable option for businesses that qualify. These programs (offered by government agencies, nonprofits, and private organizations) can be especially useful for startups, minority- and women-owned businesses, or companies operating in underserved communities. Although the application process can be competitive, securing a grant provides a financial boost without adding debt. Our team can help you explore these opportunities and connect you with programs that align with your business objectives.
7. Industry-Specific & Specialized Lending Solutions
Every business is unique, and some industries require specialized financing solutions beyond traditional loans. Industry-specific lending is designed for businesses in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and real estate development, where cash flow and financial needs may fluctuate due to seasonal trends or regulatory requirements. For example, agricultural businesses may need funding to manage harvest cycles, while medical practices might require financing to invest in new equipment. Cornerstone Bank’s unique industry expertise and lending options are built for these unique needs.
8. Cash Management Services
Effectively managing cash flow is crucial for any business. This is time-consuming, detail-oriented work that requires specialized labor and expertise. In short, costs for in-house labor and full-time positions for executing cash management tasks can add up quickly (as can risk exposure!). Did you know: Cornerstone Bank offers cash management solutions, including ACH transactions, wire transfers, and fraud protection tools, to help businesses optimize their financial operations and mitigate risk. Our services help streamline payments, monitor transactions, and enhance financial security.
Consider Your Next Steps
Before securing additional capital, consider your business’s short- and long-term financial goals. Assess how additional capital will impact your operations and profitability. Review how much money you have coming in (predictable revenue) and going out (predictable expenditures) on a monthly and annual basis. In doing so, look for potential areas for margin and operational improvements.
As a community bank, Cornerstone Bank is committed to helping businesses thrive. Our Business Banking team combines deep expertise with personalized service to provide lending solutions that align with your goals. We also offer a variety of business checking accounts and an online banking platform for convenient on-the-go financial management.
Connect with one of our business banking experts today to explore your funding options and take the next step toward growth.