Interest Rates Are Up. Your Growth Plans Don't Have to Stall.

Borrowing costs are a concern. But a higher-rate environment doesn’t automatically mean you should put your plans on hold. Owners are still preparing to hire, build inventory, and pursue new sales. The key is to choose financing deliberately, not wait indefinitely for rates to fall or take the first offer that comes along.

Broad Reach Financial Services helps you compare business funding options and understand how they may fit your goals. We’re a funding advisor, not a lender. Call or text 800-203-2176 or 480-863-0531, or email support@broadreachfinancial.com, to talk through your next step.

The rate picture: higher costs, but growth plans remain

The Fed’s September hike continues to work through the market. The federal funds rate stands at 3.75%–4.00%, and Prime is 7.00%. Markets expect the Fed to hold steady at its October 27–28 meeting, but another hike before year-end remains possible.

That matters if you use borrowing with a variable rate. Many business credit cards have variable APRs, and some credit products are tied to Prime. When rates rise, the cost of carrying a balance can rise too. The actual effect depends on your account terms and lender.

Business confidence has softened, but it hasn’t fallen off a cliff. The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index slipped to 97.9 in September, just below its 52-year average. Inflation is the top concern for 20% of owners, and a net 8% paid higher rates on their latest loan. The highest reading since June 2025. (NFIB’s September report)

At the same time, a net 9% expect higher real sales next quarter, inventory plans reached their highest level since December 2024, and 17% more owners plan to hire than cut jobs. That’s the tension: borrowing costs deserve attention, but opportunity doesn’t always wait for a perfect rate environment.

Let us help you start with the job the money needs to do

The first thing we do with every client is get clear on the purpose of the financing. Inventory, a new location, equipment, an uneven cash-flow cycle, a long-term property purchase — the right structure depends on what you’re funding, how quickly you need the money, and how repayment fits your cash flow.

Then we do the comparison work for you: payment, term, fees, rate type, collateral requirements, and what happens when an introductory offer ends. A lower initial cost may not be the best fit if the repayment schedule strains your business later, and we spot that before you sign, not after.

For a quick conversation about your options, call 800-203-2176 or 480-863-0531. We’ll help you understand what may fit and what questions to ask before you commit.

When 0% business cards may fit

When the fit is right, 0% business credit card stacking can be a practical first option for eligible owners. Depending on the card and approval terms, an introductory period may offer 0% for up to 18 months. In a 7% Prime environment, that can be useful financing for planned business expenses.

The offer has an end date. After the introductory period, the card’s regular APR applies, and it’s usually variable and higher than 0%. So at Broad Reach Financial, we can help you explore moving any unpaid balance to a term loan before the high interest rate kicks in. A clear strategy keeps your credit profile and available credit in good shape.

For a closer look at how to approach applications thoughtfully, read our guide to 0% credit card stacking.

When a fixed-rate term loan may make more sense

If you need a defined amount and want predictable payments, a fixed-rate business term loan may be worth comparing. A fixed rate locks the interest rate and payment schedule for the life of the loan, subject to the loan agreement. That predictability can be valuable when variable borrowing costs are rising.

A term loan may also help some business owners pay down higher-rate revolving card balances. As card balances fall, credit utilization may improve, which may support a healthier credit profile. Results vary, and the loan is not debt disappearing. It’s a different repayment structure. Keep making required card payments until the payoff has posted to the accounts, and compare the loan’s total costs and term before deciding.

Need help comparing an SBA loan and a standard term loan? See our overview of SBA loans versus business term loans.

SBA costs: check the details before you apply

For qualifying 7(a) loans of $700,000 or less, an upfront guaranty fee of 0% took effect October 1 for manufacturers, specified food supply chain businesses, and rural businesses. For businesses in those categories, this may represent a real cost saving. The waiver applies only when the loan and applicant meet program rules; it isn’t a blanket fee change for every 7(a) borrower. The SBA’s 7(a) loan program includes financing for eligible working capital, real estate, equipment, and other business needs.

For qualifying long-term real estate and equipment projects, the 25-year SBA 504 rate climbed to 6.97%, up from 6.54% in September. If you’re planning a property purchase or major equipment investment, run the numbers using current terms rather than assuming waiting will make financing cheaper. The quoted rate is only one part of the decision; eligibility, fees, project structure, and lender terms matter too.

When flexibility or speed matters more

Not every funding need calls for a lump sum. A business line of credit can help manage recurring working-capital needs, while accounts receivable financing may help when outstanding invoices affect cash flow. A merchant cash advance may help with an urgent cash-flow need, but you should understand the full repayment cost and how payments may affect daily operations.

If you’re exploring alternatives, take care of the basics alongside your funding search: check your credit reports for errors, make payments on time, and avoid applying for multiple products without a plan. We generally recommend applicants with a 650 FICO score or higher, but that’s a recommendation, not a cutoff. Eligibility and terms depend on the lender, product, applicant, and business circumstances.

Compare options before you put growth on hold

Let Steve and Gale put their 30-plus years of business ownership and loan processing to work for you. Steve built and sold his own companies. Gale has processed loans for decades. They've sat on your side of the desk, and they'll talk you through your options.

Rates may be higher. That makes a careful comparison more important, not growth impossible. Call or text 800-203-2176 or 480-863-0531, or email support@broadreachfinancial.com. We’ll help you review your options and decide what makes sense for your business.

Other lenders fit you into their program. We fit the program to you.

Broad Reach Financial Services Inc. is not a lender; we provide education and guidance and connect clients with funding sources. Approval, rates, terms, fees, eligibility, collateral requirements, and funding times vary by lender, product, applicant, and business circumstances; no outcome is guaranteed. This article is general educational information and not legal, tax or financial advice.