
First Interstate Bank
First Interstate Bank is an active SBA lender in Montana, a bank offering SBA-guaranteed small-business loans. Currently rated 3.0 stars across 35 Google reviews.
$1.3B
in SBA approvals since 2010
2,678
SBA loans funded
Hotels & Lodging · Manufacturing · Restaurants & Food Service
Top industries financed
Source: U.S. SBA 7(a) & 504 FOIA loan-approval records (FY2010–present).
About First Interstate Bank
First Interstate Bank is an SBA 7(a) and/or 504 lender with 2,678 approved SBA loans totaling $1.3B in 13 states since fiscal year 2010, per U.S. SBA FOIA records. Top industries financed: Hotels & Lodging, Manufacturing, Restaurants & Food Service. Contact the bank directly for current programs and terms.
Serves SBA borrowers in 13 states
First Interstate Bank has funded SBA loans for businesses in these states, by borrower location. Tap a state to see every lender serving it.
Industries First Interstate Bank finances
Business types First Interstate Bank actively lends to, from its SBA loan history. Tap one to see every lender serving it.
Common questions about First Interstate Bank
What is this place and what can I find here?
This is a financial institution offering SBA loan programs to support small business growth and development. You can find information about their loan options, application process, and support services here.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
Ask First Interstate Bank directly — some branches take walk-ins, others book SBA conversations by appointment.
What are the hours of operation?
Hours vary by branch and change. Check First Interstate Bank's website or call before you visit.
Is there a fee to use this?
Browsing this directory is free. Any loan fees are set by First Interstate Bank and the SBA program — ask the lender for its current schedule.
Who is this open to — anyone, or only residents/members?
This service is primarily available to small business owners and residents within the bank's regional service area, though specific eligibility can vary.
What minimum personal credit score does this bank look for in a guarantor?
Many SBA lenders look for a personal score around 640 or higher, but each bank sets its own bar and it changes. Ask First Interstate Bank what it looks for today.
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 loan and completeness of documentation.
Is this open on weekends?
Most bank SBA teams work weekdays; confirm with First Interstate Bank before planning a weekend visit.
How do I get there and where do I park?
First Interstate Bank is located in Montana — 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 First Interstate Bank, an SBA-participating bank. It is maintained by SBA Lenders USA to help borrowers compare lenders — not by First Interstate Bank itself, which runs its own lending under its own ownership. If you work at First Interstate Bank, you can claim this listing from this page to manage it.
How current is the information on this page?
The core details for First Interstate 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 First Interstate Bank before applying. If you represent First Interstate Bank, claim this listing to keep its information up to date.
How do I contact this listing directly?
You can reach First Interstate Bank by phone at (406) 255-5000 or online at locations.firstinterstatebank.com/mt/billings/401-n-31st-st.html?y_source=1_NDQyNjEyNy03MTUtbG9jYXRpb24ud2Vic2l0ZQ — the same details are in the contact card on this page.
What core industries does this commercial bank traditionally choose to finance?
Based on its approved SBA loans, First Interstate Bank most often finances businesses in restaurants & food service, construction & contractors, general retail, manufacturing, medical practices & clinics, and hotels & lodging. This reflects First Interstate 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 First Interstate Bank which sectors it actively lends to before you apply.
Can I apply for an SBA Express line of credit at this branch?
First Interstate Bank offers SBA Express loans and lines of credit up to $500,000 for working capital, seasonal financing, and accounts receivable/inventory support with streamlined approvals. Confirm current availability at (406) 255-5000.
Does this bank have Preferred Lender Provider status with the government?
Whether First Interstate Bank has SBA Preferred Lender (PLP) status is set by the SBA. Ask the bank directly; PLP lenders can approve in-house and often move faster.
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. First Interstate Bank's appetite for start-ups is set by its own credit policy. If you are early-stage or pre-revenue, ask First Interstate 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 First Interstate 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 First Interstate 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 First Interstate 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. First Interstate Bank weighs this case by case under its own policy, so be upfront about your history and ask First Interstate Bank how it evaluates prior bankruptcies.



