Caldwell Bank & Trust Company
Caldwell Bank & Trust Company is an active SBA lender in the United States, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.8 stars across 5 Google reviews.
$6M
in SBA approvals since 2019
8
SBA loans funded
Hotels & Lodging · General Retail · Automotive Repair & Services
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Caldwell Bank & Trust Company
Caldwell Bank & Trust Company offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to meet the needs of small businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. With a focus on SBA programs, the bank provides expertise in navigating the application process, ensuring clients receive favorable terms and competitive rates. Their team is dedicated to understanding each business's unique circumstances and offering personalized solutions, whether for working capital, equipment purchase, or real estate financing. Located in Columbia, Louisiana, the bank serves local entrepreneurs and small business owners, helping them achieve their goals through reliable financial products and dedicated customer service. They support various SBA programs, including the 7(a) and 504 loan programs, making them a versatile partner for small business financing needs. Caldwell Bank & Trust Company emphasizes quick turnaround times and transparent fee structures, aiming to make the borrowing process straightforward and accessible. Their experienced staff is committed to fostering economic growth within the community by providing flexible lending options and expert guidance throughout the loan process.
Common questions about Caldwell Bank & Trust Company
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a trusted SBA lender offering small business loans, including 7(a) and 504 programs, with personalized service and competitive terms to help your business grow.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a loan officer, but walk-ins may be accommodated depending on availability.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with additional hours by appointment.
Is there a fee to use this?
Yes, there are application and closing fees associated with the loans, which will be clearly disclosed during the application process.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This service is primarily available to small business owners within the regional area, but eligibility depends on meeting loan requirements.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 620 is typically required, though higher scores improve approval chances.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The process generally takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the application and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Caldwell Bank & Trust Company itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Caldwell Bank & Trust Company, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Caldwell Bank & Trust Company — 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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company before applying. If you represent Caldwell Bank & Trust Company, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Caldwell Bank & Trust Company by phone at (318) 649-2351 or online at caldwellbankandtrust.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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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. Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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. Caldwell Bank & Trust Company's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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 Caldwell Bank & Trust Company 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. Caldwell Bank & Trust Company weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Caldwell Bank & Trust Company how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.