Bell Bank
Bell Bank is an active SBA lender in North Dakota, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.1 stars across 85 Google reviews.
$346M
in SBA approvals since 2010
531
SBA loans funded
Manufacturing · Construction & Contractors · Restaurants & Food Service
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Bell Bank
Bell Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. With a focus on personalized service, they assist clients through various SBA programs, including the popular 7(a) loan program. Their experienced team guides borrowers through the application process, providing expertise in loan structuring, eligibility, and repayment options. Located in Fargo, North Dakota, Bell Bank is committed to fostering local economic development while serving a broad range of industries. They support businesses with diverse funding needs, from working capital to equipment purchase, and have a proven track record of approving substantial loan amounts, including approvals up to $452,900. Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, Bell Bank's dedicated SBA team helps navigate the complexities of small business financing, ensuring a smooth and efficient process. Their focus on community banking and personalized service makes them a trusted partner for small business owners across the region.
Serves SBA borrowers in 4 states
Bell Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries Bell Bank finances
Business types Bell Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Bell Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a bank that offers SBA loans and small business financing options designed to help your business grow and succeed.
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 during business hours.
What are the hours of operation?
Bell Bank's Fargo Center operates weekdays 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturdays 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Confirm current hours directly with the branch.
Is there a fee to use this?
Fees depend on the specific loan and services used, including application and closing costs.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves local small businesses and residents in the Fargo region, but also offers services to a broader community within its lending area.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
Typically, a minimum personal credit score of 640 is required, though higher scores improve approval chances.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process usually takes between 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the complexity of the loan application.
Is this open on weekends?
Yes, Bell Bank's Fargo Center is open on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Confirm with the branch for holiday schedules.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Bell Bank is located in North Dakota — 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 Bell Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Bell Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Bell Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Bell Bank — 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 Bell Bank before applying. If you represent Bell Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
Reach Bell Bank's Fargo Center at (701) 298-1500 or email the branch manager at dvolk@bell.bank. For SBA loans, ask for their business lending department.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Bell Bank most often finances businesses in construction & contractors, manufacturing, general retail, wholesale & distribution, restaurants & food service, and medical practices & clinics. This reflects Bell Bank's real SBA 7(a) and 504 lending history rather than a stated policy — it can still consider other industries and sets its own current preferences, so confirm with Bell Bank which sectors 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 Bell Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Bell Bank 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. Bell Bank 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. Bell Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Bell Bank 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 Bell Bank 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 Bell Bank 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 Bell Bank 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. Bell Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Bell Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.
