Blogs

What is a Certified Development Company (CDC)?(opens in new tab)
CDCs are perhaps best known for their role in the SBA 504 Loan Program, but their work often extends well beyond 504 lending. Many CDCs provide other forms of financing, technical assistance, business counseling, and other economic development programs designed to help small businesses start, grow, and succeed. Read more >

(opens in new tab)SBA 504 vs. SBA 7(a): Which Loan Is Right for Your Business?(opens in new tab)
Understanding the key differences between SBA 504 and SBA 7(a) loans can help you determine which option may be the best fit for your business.
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Common Reasons SBA Loans Get Approved or Denied(opens in new tab)
SBA loans can provide small businesses with the capital they need to expand operations, purchase equipment, acquire commercial real estate, or refinance existing debt. Understanding the most common reasons SBA loans are approved—or denied—can help business owners better prepare before applying.  Read more>(opens in new tab)

Connections that Count: The Key to Sustainable Small Business Growth(opens in new tab)
While access to capital, a solid business plan and a great product all matter, the ability to connect with the right people often determines how far and how fast a business can grow. Find out why meaningful networking can open doors that funding alone cannot. Read more>(opens in new tab)

When to Apply for a Small Business Loan(opens in new tab)
A well-timed loan can provide the capital needed to grow strategically while maintaining financial stability. Read on for tips on when the right time to apply for a business loan could be for your small business. Read more>(opens in new tab) 

How To Use Financing to Grow Your Business, Not Just Survive(opens in new tab)
When used thoughtfully, financing can help move a business forward, opening the door to new opportunities, increased revenue, and long-term stability. Read more>(opens in new tab)

Understanding the 5 C's of Credit(opens in new tab)
When it comes to securing a loan for your small business, lenders don’t just look at your financial statements—they evaluate your business through a well-established framework known as the 5 C’s of Credit. Here’s a breakdown of what each “C” means and why it matters. Read more> (opens in new tab)

What Lenders Look for in a Strong Small Business Loan Application(opens in new tab)
When you’re ready to take the next step in your business—whether that’s purchasing property, expanding operations, or investing in new equipment—preparing an SBA 504 loan application can make all the difference. Here’s a clear look at what lenders like us look for in a strong loan application.
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Smart Tax Prep for Small Businesses(opens in new tab)
Tax season can feel overwhelming for small business owners, but with the right preparation and support, it becomes an opportunity to strengthen your financial foundation. Here are some practical tips to help you prepare—along with ways Coastal Community Capital can support you throughout the process. Read more>(opens in new tab)

Understanding Credit(opens in new tab)
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, knowing the ins and outs of credit can open doors to opportunities and help your business thrive. Read more>(opens in new tab)

Small Business Guide to Financial Risk Management(opens in new tab)
Understanding how to anticipate, prepare for, and respond to risks not only protects your business but also helps it thrive long term. Read more>(opens in new tab)

Understanding Community Development: A Beginner's Guide(opens in new tab)
Here’s a beginner’s guide to understanding the fundamentals of community development lending and why it matters—for borrowers and for the communities they serve.  Read more> (opens in new tab)

Big Impact on a Small Budget: Low Cost Marketing Tips(opens in new tab)
Marketing doesn’t have to drain your budget to be effective. For small business owners, every dollar counts—and thankfully, some of the best marketing strategies are free or very affordable. Read more>(opens in new tab)

Managing Cash Flow: A Key to Business Success(opens in new tab)
Cash flow is the heartbeat of any small business. Whether you’re launching a startup or managing a growing company in a local community, your ability to manage cash flow can mean the difference between thriving and merely surviving. Read more>(opens in new tab)

How to Prepare for a SBA Loan Application(opens in new tab)
To improve your chances of approval, you’ll need to present a strong, organized application. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you prepare.  Read More>(opens in new tab)

Am I Eligible for a SBA Loan?
As an existing or soon-to-be small business owner, the SBA 504 loan appears to be a good fit, but you’re still wondering: How do I really know if I’m eligible? Read More>

Best Reasons An Entrepreneur Should Engage A Mentor
Being a small business owner is being a go-getter, an organizer, an employee and a manager that assumes the risks of a business. Read More>

Tips for Better Cash Flow Management
This seems obvious, right? I mean, as an individual, WITH cash, you can buy food, pay your mortgage, put gas in your car and put money aside for your next “big” purchase. Read More>

Pros and Cons of Debt Refinancing
So you had taken a business loan out when the business was in its early stages. Perhaps the rate was a little higher or the loan amount was a little lower than you had requested. Read More>