Free Business Advice

The processing time for business loan applications can vary, but we strive to provide a quick and efficient process. It generally depends on the complexity of the loan and the completeness of the application.

Firstly, we will want to hear all about your business idea. Then, we’ll ask who else you’ve spoken to about the idea, and what their feedback was.

We’ll ask you about any ideas you have to test out the business proposition. For example, could you try selling your product on the local marketplace to see if it’s popular before launching?

Finally, we’ll talk about the first steps you would take if you were to launch your business. That would likely include creating a business plan, registering the business, organizing your financing, putting together a marketing plan, building your brand, networking, and more.

If you don’t already have these ideas and plans, we suggest you take some time to put it all on paper, so we have something tangible to discuss in our initial meeting. If you don’t have all the answers just yet or can’t figure out a specific problem, that’s ok too!

If you already have a business, you can come to us with a specific problem, or with multiple problems, and we’ll work as a sounding board to help you hash it out. We’ll want to know what you’ve already considered doing or tried, and we’ll work with you to find solutions.

Importantly, we’d love to know what we can do to help with your challenges. Whether that’s connecting you with the right resources, offering a business sounding board, helping you work through a budget, or something else, the best way for us to help is to know how we can help.

Yes. Even a simple business plan will help to clarify your goals and give you a set direction. You will use it to lay out your ultimate goals, medium-term tactics for meeting those goals, and daily tasks that will help to drive you forward.

For more information, read our blog here.

The terms and interest rates for our business loans can vary based on the loan program and your business's financial requirements. We offer competitive rates and flexible repayment terms to ensure affordability.

To begin, we recommend some basic market research. Importantly, don’t just ask friends and family, who may be more receptive to the idea than the general public as they want to support you. Spend time thinking about who your target customers would be, and look around to see if there are already products or services in the market.

For more information, view our blog on this topic here.

We provide resources such as business planning templates, startup guides, access to industry research, and one-on-one consultations to help entrepreneurs get their business ideas off the ground.

We aim to keep the application process as cost-effective as possible. We charge an admin fee of 2% loan value, and work to minimize upfront costs for our clients.

If you are unhappy with the loan approval process, please contact info@cfhowesound.com with details of your experience.

Absolutely, our expertise extends to rural business development. We understand the unique challenges and opportunities rural businesses face and provide tailored business guidance and support to ensure their success.

Yes, we offer valuable business mentorship programs that connect aspiring entrepreneurs and business owners with experienced mentors. We have an extensive network of mentors across the Sea to Sky Corridor, covering all types of businesses. Our experienced mentors provide guidance, share insights, and offer support to foster your success.

Certainly. We provide expert guidance on business succession planning, enabling business owners to smoothly transition their businesses to new owners or family members while preserving their legacy.