
The First National Bank of Fort Smith
The First National Bank of Fort Smith is an active SBA lender in Arkansas, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.5 stars across 72 Google reviews.
$18M
in SBA approvals since 2010
71
SBA loans funded
Restaurants & Food Service · Mental Health Services · Manufacturing
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About The First National Bank of Fort Smith
The First National Bank of Fort Smith offers comprehensive SBA lending solutions tailored to small and medium-sized businesses. With a focus on supporting local entrepreneurs, the bank provides various loan programs including SBA 7(a) loans, which are ideal for business expansion, working capital, or equipment purchase. The bank's experienced lending team guides clients through the application process, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. Their loan offerings are flexible, with approval amounts reaching up to $300,000, making them suitable for a wide range of business needs. Located at 602 Garrison Ave in Fort Smith, Arkansas, the bank is well-positioned to serve the local business community and beyond. They prioritize personalized service and financial solutions that foster growth and stability for their clients.
Serves SBA borrowers in 2 states
The First National Bank of Fort Smith has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries The First National Bank of Fort Smith finances
Business types The First National Bank of Fort Smith actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about The First National Bank of Fort Smith
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a trusted SBA lender offering small business loans, including SBA 7(a) programs, with personalized service and flexible financing options to support your business growth.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
It's recommended to schedule an appointment with a loan officer to ensure dedicated time and personalized assistance, but walk-ins may also be accommodated depending on availability.
What are the hours of operation?
The bank is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, but it's best to confirm hours directly with the branch or via appointment.
Is there a fee to use this?
There are no fees for simply visiting or consulting; fees apply only when initiating a loan application or other financial services.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This lender primarily serves local residents and businesses in the Fort Smith area, but eligibility for SBA loans can extend to qualifying businesses nationwide.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
A minimum personal credit score of around 640 is generally recommended, though higher scores improve approval chances.
How long does the traditional underwriting process take from start to close?
The underwriting process typically 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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith 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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith to confirm current weekend availability before you go.
How do I get there and where do I park?
The First National Bank of Fort Smith is located in Arkansas — 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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by The First National Bank of Fort Smith itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at The First National Bank of Fort Smith, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for The First National Bank of Fort Smith — 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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith before applying. If you represent The First National Bank of Fort Smith, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach The First National Bank of Fort Smith by phone at (479) 788-4600 or online at fnbfs.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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith before relying on them.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, The First National Bank of Fort Smith most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service and construction & contractors. This reflects The First National Bank of Fort Smith'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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith 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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith participates in SBA Express depends on its specific SBA lending authority. Contact The First National Bank of Fort Smith 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. The First National Bank of Fort Smith 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. The First National Bank of Fort Smith's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask The First National Bank of Fort Smith 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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith 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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith 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 The First National Bank of Fort Smith 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. The First National Bank of Fort Smith weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask The First National Bank of Fort Smith how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.


