Great North Bank
Great North Bank is an active SBA lender in Wisconsin, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 4.3 stars across 12 Google reviews.
$35M
in SBA approvals since 2010
75
SBA loans funded
Transportation & Trucking · Construction & Contractors · Auto Dealers & Sales
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About Great North Bank
Great North Bank offers comprehensive SBA loan services tailored to small and medium-sized businesses seeking financial support for growth, equipment, or real estate. With a focus on personalized service, the bank provides flexible lending options backed by SBA programs to help clients achieve their business goals. Their team specializes in guiding borrowers through the application process, ensuring clarity and efficiency from start to finish. Whether you're looking for working capital, real estate financing, or equipment loans, Great North Bank is equipped to assist with SBA 7(a) loans and other small business financing solutions. The bank's local presence in Florence, WI, allows it to understand regional market needs while providing nationwide access to SBA programs. Their commitment to supporting local businesses makes them a trusted partner for entrepreneurs and established companies alike. They prioritize customer service, transparency, and tailored financial solutions to meet diverse business needs. With a history of approving large loans up to $220,000, they are well-versed in managing substantial SBA-backed financing. The bank also offers guidance on eligibility and application requirements to streamline the borrowing process, making it accessible for a wide range of businesses.
Serves SBA borrowers in 2 states
Great North Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries Great North Bank finances
Business types Great North Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about Great North Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a bank offering SBA loan services to small and medium-sized businesses. You can find assistance with financing options like SBA 7(a) loans, guidance through the application process, and personalized support for your business needs.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It is recommended to schedule an appointment to ensure dedicated time with a loan specialist, but walk-in consultations may also be available during business hours.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank operates Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but hours may vary, so it's best to contact ahead for specific appointment times.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for initial consultations; however, standard loan application and closing fees may apply depending on the financing arrangement.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This bank primarily serves local residents and businesses in Florence, WI, but also offers nationwide SBA loan programs to qualified applicants.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
Typically, a minimum personal credit score of 650 is preferred, but final decisions are based on overall financial health and collateral.
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 loan and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most banks keep weekday business hours and are closed on weekends, and Great North 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 Great North Bank to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
Great North Bank is located in Wisconsin — 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 Great North Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by Great North Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at Great North Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for Great North 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 Great North Bank before applying. If you represent Great North Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach Great North Bank by phone at (844) 688-4844 or online at greatnorthbank.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 Great North Bank before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, Great North Bank most often finances businesses in construction & contractors, transportation & trucking, restaurants & food service, and auto dealers & sales. This reflects Great North 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 Great North 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 Great North Bank participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact Great North 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. Great North 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. Great North Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask Great North 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 Great North 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 Great North 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 Great North 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. Great North Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask Great North Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



