
First Western Bank & Trust
First Western Bank & Trust is an active SBA lender in the United States, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.5 stars across 14 Google reviews.
About First Western Bank & Trust
First Western Bank & Trust offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. With a focus on personalized service, the bank provides various loan options including SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for working capital, equipment purchase, or real estate acquisition. The institution is committed to helping local entrepreneurs succeed by offering flexible terms and competitive rates. Their experienced team guides clients through the application process, ensuring clarity and efficiency from start to finish. Located in Minot, North Dakota, they serve a broad range of industries, emphasizing community development and small business prosperity. Whether you're a startup or an established business, First Western Bank & Trust is dedicated to providing financial solutions that meet your unique needs and support your long-term goals.
Common questions about First Western Bank & Trust
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a community-focused bank offering SBA lending services and personalized financial solutions for small businesses in the Minot area. You can find support for various funding needs, including loans for expansion, equipment, and real estate.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated service, but walk-ins are also welcome depending on availability. Contact the branch ahead of time for the best experience.
What are the hours of operation?
First Western Bank's Minot branch lobby is open Monday-Friday 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Saturday 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM; drive-up service runs Monday-Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturday 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM. Confirm current hours by calling (701) 852-3711.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for simply visiting or consulting with the bank. Loan application fees and closing costs may apply depending on the specific financing arrangement.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves residents and small business owners within the community, but non-residents may also be eligible depending on the loan program and qualifications.
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 improve the chances of approval and favorable terms.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the completeness of your application and the complexity of the loan.
Is this open on weekends?
First Western Bank's Minot location is open Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM (lobby) and 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM (drive-up). Confirm weekend SBA lending availability with the branch at (701) 852-3711.
How do I get there and where do I park?
First Western 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 First Western Bank & Trust, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by First Western Bank & Trust itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at First Western 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 First Western 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 First Western Bank & Trust before applying. If you represent First Western Bank & Trust, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach First Western Bank & Trust by phone at (701) 852-3711 or online at firstwestern.bank — 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 First Western Bank & Trust before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Like most SBA lenders, First Western 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 First Western 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 First Western Bank & Trust participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact First Western 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. First Western 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. First Western Bank & Trust's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask First Western 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 First Western 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 First Western 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 First Western 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. First Western Bank & Trust weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask First Western Bank & Trust how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
