Practical insights to help business owners build smarter financial strategies, get more from their cash flow and unlock new growth.
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“Strong cash flow and smart capital decisions – that’s the real business edge.” – John Young, Head of SBA Lending, Atlantic Union Bank |
Why Small Businesses Need an Edge
Small businesses are the heartbeat of the U.S. economy, supporting nearly half of all private‑sector jobs and fueling innovation and community growth.* But even with all they contribute, many owners still struggle with everyday financial challenges: managing cash, securing credit and keeping up with fast-moving digital financial tools.
This guide is here to help. We’ve brought together expert advice, real examples and simple, actionable steps to make managing money clearer and to help business owners build the confidence and financial foundation needed to grow, adapt and thrive.
Edge I: The Capital Equation
Getting the right financing at the right time
For many small business owners, finding capital can feel like the biggest roadblock. And too often, financing is something businesses think about only when they’re pressed for cash or facing a deadline. Planning ahead can make a huge difference.
Here are three financing options worth considering:
- Working Capital Loans: Great for covering short term needs like payroll, rent or inventory during busy or seasonal periods.
- Lines of Credit: Flexible access to cash whenever you need it, without committing to long-term debt–perfect for covering cash flow gaps or unexpected costs.
- SBA Loans: Government-backed options with competitive rates and longer repayment periods–ideal for expansion, real estate or equipment purchases.
SBA Lending at a Glance
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“Preparation is the single best way to boost your odds of getting funding.” – John Golsen, National Sales Director, Atlantic Union Bank |
How to Strengthen Your Loan Request
Banks look at more than your numbers. They also look at your planning, organization and overall approach to running the business. Here’s what helps:
- Keep a 3–5 year financial forecast showing expected cash flow.
- Aim for a debt-service coverage ratio above 1.25x.**
- Separate personal and business finances with clean, organized books.
- Clearly explain how you’ll use the capital and why it matters for the business.
Edge II: The Cash Flow Imperative
Why liquidity keeps a business alive
Cash flow is often called the oxygen of a small business, and it’s true. Even profitable companies can run into trouble if money isn’t coming in fast enough to cover expenses. Managing cash isn’t just for big corporations; every business needs a plan.
Cash Flow Essentials
- Receivables Management: Speed up payments with digital options, incentives and accounts receivable (AR) software.1
- Payables Optimization: Extend payment terms when possible, without harming supplier relationships.
- Liquidity Buffers: Keep at least 2–3 months of operating expenses on hand.
- Cash Forecasting: Use a rolling 13-week forecast to plan ahead.
Tools That Make Cash Flow Easier
Banks now offer simple, powerful treasury tools that used to be available only to large companies:
- Remote Deposit Capture: Deposit checks from anywhere.
- ACH Services: Automate payroll and vendor payments.
- Positive Pay: Reduce fraud by verifying transactions.
- Liquidity Sweeps: Automatically move extra cash into interest-earning accounts.
Together, these tools can improve efficiency, strengthen cash flow and reduce fraud risks.
Edge III: Building Capability through Financial Operations
Growing beyond the basics
Capital and cash are just the start. Capability helps a business scale with confidence. Companies that invest in their financial skills and digital tools often gain a huge competitive advantage.
Key Capability Pillars
Financial Education: Understanding things like working capital ratios or return on equity leads to smarter decisions.
Technology Adoption: Tools like Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems or mobile banking improve accuracy, speed and visibility.1
Fraud Awareness: Scams like invoice fraud and Business Email Compromise (BEC) are on the rise—staying informed matters.
Banking Partnerships: A good banker is more than a lender; they’re a strategic advisor.
A Real World Example:
A small retail chain wanted to expand into e-commerce. With help from its treasury management partner, it:
- added online payment options,
- synced transactions with accounting software, and
- used data insights to better manage inventory.
Within a year, online sales grew to 30% of total revenue, with better margins than in-store sales. Capability drove meaningful growth.
Did You Know?71% of small businesses using treasury tech saw higher profits within two years.1 |
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“A great banker isn’t just a lender—they’re a growth partner.” – John Young, Head of SBA Lending, Atlantic Union Bank |
Edge IV: What’s Ahead for Small Business Banking
Staying aware of financial trends can help owners make smarter, faster decisions. Here are a few that are shaping the future:
Digital Payments are Taking Over: Fewer than 10% of small businesses still rely heavily on cash.1
The Cost of Capital is Rising: Higher rates mean businesses must be thoughtful about when they borrow.
Cybersecurity Matters More Than Ever: Stronger fraud prevention and identity verification are becoming essential.
Sustainable Finance is Growing: Eco-friendly loans and incentives are gaining traction.
Trend Spotlight
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Edge V: Finding Your Small Business Edge
Every small business can strengthen its edge by focusing on three essentials: capital, cash and capability. While you can’t control economic shifts or interest rates, you can build a financial foundation that helps you navigate them.
Strong banking relationships are key. When your bank becomes more than a lender — when they act as a trusted advisor, you gain a partner who can help guide your business toward long-term success.
How Atlantic Union Bank Can Help
Your relationship manager can help you explore the right financial tools—whether you need financing, treasury services, budgeting support or long-term planning.
If you’re not already working with an Atlantic Union Bank relationship manager, we’d be happy to connect you with one. Visit our SBA & Government Loans page to learn more.
John Young
Head of SBA Lending
John serves as Head of SBA Lending at Atlantic Union Bank, where he oversees all aspects of the SBA Lending team, including sales, underwriting, service, support and reporting. With more than 40 years of experience in commercial and business banking, he brings deep expertise in helping clients access the right SBA solutions to meet their needs.
John Golsen
National Sales Director
John brings over 20 years of SBA lending and leadership experience to his role as National Sales Manager, Government Guaranteed Lending with Atlantic Union Bank. He leads the bank’s SBA and USDA sales teams, which provide flexible financing solutions for small businesses throughout the country.
*”Small business statistics in 2025" Bankrate
**”Debt Service Coverage Ratio: Complete Guide for Entrepreneurs” Acquira
1"Navigating the Future: Industry Trends in Treasury" Fiserv
Small Business Administration (SBA) financing is subject to approval through the SBA 504 and SBA 7(a) programs. Loan terms, collateral and documentation requirements apply. Actual amortization, rate and extension of credit are subject to necessary credit approval. Atlantic Union Bank's credit standards and documentation requirements apply. Some restrictions may apply.
This publication is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a commitment to lend money, underwrite any proposed transaction, provide financing, arrange financing or provide any other services. Atlantic Union Bank has not given advice regarding the appropriate regulatory treatment, accounting treatment or possible tax consequences of the services described herein.
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