Accessing capital isn’t just about filling out a loan application; it’s about understanding how lenders think and preparing your business to be a strong, credible borrower. This workshop is designed to help business owners understand what banks look for, how lending decisions are made, and how to build productive relationships with banking partners.

You’ll learn how the loan application process works from start to finish, what information lenders use to assess risk, and how to realistically plan for the amount and timing of capital you’re seeking. We’ll break down common lending criteria, including time in business, management experience, market conditions, collateral, and your ability to repay. You’ll also gain insight into underwriting and the key financial ratios banks review, such as leverage, liquidity, cash flow, and debt service coverage.

This session will also help you see the lending process as a two-way conversation. You’ll learn how to evaluate different types of banks, ask the right questions, and position your business clearly and confidently. We’ll talk through how business history, financial statements, and projections factor into lending decisions, and how to avoid common missteps that can slow or derail the process.

Hybrid Format

This workshop is offered in a hybrid format, so you can join us in person in our classroom at our office in the 18th and Vine District or online via Zoom, whatever works best for you.