First Southwest Bank
First Southwest Bank is an active SBA lender in Colorado, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.0 stars across 37 Google reviews.
$85M
in SBA approvals since 2010
248
SBA loans funded
General Retail · Real Estate & Property Management · Construction & Contractors
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About First Southwest Bank
First Southwest Bank offers comprehensive SBA lending services tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial support for growth, expansion, or operational needs. With a focus on personalized service, the bank provides SBA 7(a) loans that help entrepreneurs access capital for a variety of purposes, including working capital, equipment purchases, and real estate acquisitions. Their experienced lending team guides clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from initial inquiry to funding. The bank supports loans up to $146,000, making it a viable option for businesses looking for flexible financing solutions. Located in Durango, Colorado, they serve local businesses while also supporting regional economic development. Whether you're a startup or an established enterprise, First Southwest Bank is committed to helping you achieve your business goals through tailored SBA loan programs.
Serves SBA borrowers in 2 states
First Southwest Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries First Southwest Bank finances
Business types First Southwest Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about First Southwest Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a financial institution offering SBA loan programs to help small and medium-sized businesses access capital for growth, expansion, or operational needs. You can find personalized lending services, expert guidance, and flexible financing options tailored to your business goals.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It is recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated assistance, but walk-in visits are also accepted during business hours. Calling ahead can help you prepare for a smoother experience.
What are the hours of operation?
First Southwest Bank operates Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm. Please confirm with the lender for holiday hours or exceptions.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for initial consultations or inquiries. Loan fees, such as guarantee and closing costs, are disclosed during the application process and vary based on the loan specifics.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This lender primarily serves local businesses in the Durango region, but they also support regional clients seeking SBA financing. Business owners must meet eligibility requirements to qualify.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 640 is typically required, but approval depends on the overall financial profile and collateral availability.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process generally takes between 30 to 60 days, depending on the complexity of the application and completeness of submitted documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and First Southwest Bank 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 First Southwest Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
First Southwest Bank is located in Colorado — 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 Southwest Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by First Southwest Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at First Southwest Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for First Southwest 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 First Southwest Bank before applying. If you represent First Southwest Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach First Southwest Bank by phone at (970) 375-1100 or online at fswb.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 Southwest Bank before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, First Southwest Bank most often finances businesses in transportation & trucking, construction & contractors, general retail, manufacturing, restaurants & food service, and real estate & property management. This reflects First Southwest 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 First Southwest 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 First Southwest Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact First Southwest 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. First Southwest 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. First Southwest Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask First Southwest 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 First Southwest 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 First Southwest 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 First Southwest 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. First Southwest Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask First Southwest Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



