
Blackhawk Bank & Trust
Blackhawk Bank & Trust is an active SBA lender in the United States, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.9 stars across 10 Google reviews.
$11M
in SBA approvals since 2010
24
SBA loans funded
Wholesale & Distribution · Manufacturing · Transportation & Trucking
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Blackhawk Bank & Trust
Blackhawk Bank & Trust offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. As a trusted commercial bank, it provides a variety of loan options, including SBA 7(a) loans, to help clients access capital with favorable terms and flexible repayment options. The bank specializes in serving businesses across diverse industries, ensuring personalized service and expert guidance throughout the loan process. With a focus on community development and economic growth, Blackhawk Bank & Trust is committed to fostering strong relationships with its clients and supporting local business success.
Common questions about Blackhawk Bank & Trust
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused commercial bank offering SBA loan programs, banking services, and financial solutions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses. You can find expert guidance on SBA financing options, personalized service, and support for your business growth needs.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It is recommended to schedule an appointment with a loan officer to ensure dedicated time for your needs, but walk-ins are also accommodated during business hours. Calling ahead can help you receive prompt assistance.
What are the hours of operation?
Blackhawk Bank & Trust operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Confirm exact hours and any holiday exceptions with the branch.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for visiting or consulting with a loan officer; however, loan application and processing fees may apply depending on the service or loan type.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves local residents and businesses within its regional area but offers SBA loan programs accessible to qualified applicants nationwide.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of 640 is generally preferred, though higher scores increase the likelihood of approval and favorable terms.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the loan and completeness of the application.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Blackhawk Bank & Trust typically follows the same pattern. SBA lending staff are generally reachable Monday through Friday. A few locations offer Saturday or by-appointment hours, so call Blackhawk Bank & Trust to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Blackhawk Bank & Trust is located at the address listed on this page — see the contact card for the full address. Most bank locations offer free on-site or nearby street parking for visitors. For exact directions, the entrance, and accessible parking, use the listed address or call ahead and staff can point you to visitor spaces.
Who owns or operates this listing?
This page is an independent directory listing for Blackhawk Bank & Trust, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Blackhawk Bank & Trust itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Blackhawk Bank & Trust, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Blackhawk Bank & Trust — name, location, contact, and lender type — are compiled from public records and reviewed periodically. Rates, programs, credit policies, and hours change often and are not guaranteed here, so always confirm the latest terms directly with Blackhawk Bank & Trust before applying. If you represent Blackhawk Bank & Trust, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Blackhawk Bank & Trust by phone at (309) 787-4451 or online at choosethechief.com — the details are in the contact card on this page. For SBA loans specifically, ask for their business lending or SBA department. Treat this directory page as a starting point and confirm hours and contact details with Blackhawk Bank & Trust before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Blackhawk Bank & Trust can finance a broad range of small businesses — common categories include professional services, healthcare practices, restaurants and franchises, retail, light manufacturing, and commercial real estate. Each bank sets its own industry preferences and may avoid sectors it considers higher risk. Ask Blackhawk Bank & Trust directly which industries it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this branch?
SBA Express offers lines of credit and term loans up to $500,000 with a faster turnaround than standard 7(a) loans. Whether Blackhawk Bank & Trust participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Blackhawk Bank & Trust and ask if it offers SBA Express and what the current limits and terms look like for your situation.
Does this bank have Preferred Lender Provider status with the government?
SBA Preferred Lender Program (PLP) status lets a lender approve loans in-house without sending each one to the SBA first, which usually means faster decisions. Many established banks hold PLP status, but it varies by institution. Blackhawk Bank & Trust can confirm its current PLP standing — ask before you apply if speed matters to you.
Are start-up companies eligible for financing at this traditional institution?
The SBA does fund start-ups, but many traditional lenders prefer at least two years of operating history and may ask newer ventures for a larger equity injection or stronger collateral. Blackhawk Bank & Trust's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Blackhawk Bank & Trust directly whether it considers start-up loans.
What are the typical down payment expectations for commercial real estate acquisitions?
For SBA 7(a) and 504 commercial real estate loans, borrowers typically contribute around 10% to 20% as a down payment or equity injection, depending on the property and the deal. Exact requirements vary with your credit, the business, and the lender's policy. Ask Blackhawk Bank & Trust what down payment it expects for your specific commercial real estate purchase.
Does this bank impose prepayment penalties on short-term working capital facilities?
SBA 7(a) loans with terms under 15 years generally carry no prepayment penalty, while longer real estate loans can have one in the early years. Short-term working capital lines often have no penalty, but terms vary by lender. Review your loan agreement and ask Blackhawk Bank & Trust to spell out any prepayment penalties before you sign.
Can I use loan proceeds from this bank to buy out an existing equity partner?
SBA loans can be used for a partner or owner buyout, including buying out an existing equity partner, when the deal is structured to meet SBA rules — for example, the remaining owner generally must stay actively involved. Approval depends on the specifics, so discuss your buyout plan with Blackhawk Bank & Trust to confirm it qualifies and how to document it.
Will historical personal bankruptcies automatically disqualify my loan application here?
A past personal bankruptcy does not automatically disqualify you from an SBA loan. Lenders look at how long ago it was discharged, the circumstances, and how your credit has recovered since. Blackhawk Bank & Trust weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Blackhawk Bank & Trust how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
