Business Details
17 Years
experience
Trusted Business Loans & Financing Solutions in St. Cloud, MN
South End, a division of Stearns Bank, NA, has been a trusted leader in business financing since 2009. Our mission is to provide accessible, innovative lending solutions for small businesses and real estate investors nationwide. With a focus on customer service, transparency, and ethical practices, we specialize in non-conforming loan programs that address diverse financial needs. Our technology-driven platform enables rapid approvals and funding, offering flexible terms for equipment financing, SBA loans, real estate mortgages, and working capital. We prioritize speed without compromising due diligence, ensuring borrowers receive competitive rates and tailored financial structures. As a $3.2 billion national institution, we combine institutional strength with personalized support to serve businesses across all 50 states.Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to simplifying complex financing processes while maintaining rigorous compliance standards. By leveraging our extensive lending network, we deliver creative solutions where traditional lenders fall short. Our commitment to innovation is reflected in our streamlined underwriting, which accommodates borrowers with unique credit profiles. Through continuous improvement of our digital tools, we empower business owners to achieve growth objectives efficiently and responsibly.
Services
Business Loans
SBA Loans
Equipment Financing
Real Estate Loans
Credit Lines
Working Capital
Merchant Cash Advance Consolidation
Investor Financing
Startup Loans
Construction Loans
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We offer expedited financing with approvals in hours and same-day funding options
- Our platform provides no collateral required financing for qualified borrowers
- We serve businesses with flexible credit minimums starting at 600 credit score
- Our nationwide financing programs operate in all 50 states plus Washington DC
- We specialize in creative loan structures for borrowers turned down by traditional lenders
Services
Business Loans
Our business loans provide working capital for expansion, debt consolidation, and operational needs. Fixed-rate options with terms up to 10 years offer predictable payments for companies seeking stability. We specialize in serving businesses with unique credit profiles that traditional banks may decline.
SBA Loans
SBA loan programs deliver favorable terms for business acquisition, real estate, and working capital. Competitive rates with up to 25-year terms accommodate long-term investments. Our streamlined process maintains SBA compliance while accelerating approvals.
Equipment Financing
Equipment financing covers new and used machinery purchases across industries. Terms up to 84 months match asset depreciation schedules. Zero down payment options available for qualified borrowers seeking immediate operational capacity.
Real Estate Loans
Real estate financing solutions support property acquisition, refinancing, and cash-out strategies. Flexible underwriting considers non-traditional documentation for investment properties. Loan terms up to 30 years provide long-term stability for commercial property owners.
Credit Lines
Business credit lines offer flexible access to working capital with interest-only payments on utilized funds. Terms up to 36 months allow ongoing financial flexibility. Ideal for managing cash flow gaps and unexpected business expenses.
People
Noah Grayson
President, Founder
Noah Grayson established South End in 2009 with a vision to transform small business lending. His leadership focuses on technological innovation and accessible financing solutions for non-conforming borrowers.
Matthew Naughton
VP, Sales Director
Matthew Naughton leads South End's sales initiatives with over 15 years of experience in commercial lending. He specializes in connecting businesses with tailored financing solutions that drive growth and operational success.
Myron Alford
VP, Operations Manager
Myron Alford oversees South End's operational efficiency, ensuring rapid loan processing while maintaining compliance standards. His expertise streamlines the borrower experience from application to funding.
Bill Schmidt
VP, Finance Manager
Bill Schmidt manages South End's financial operations, focusing on sustainable lending practices and risk management. His strategic oversight ensures competitive loan structures while maintaining institutional stability.
Questions
Is SEC a direct lender or loan broker?
SEC operates as a direct lender through Stearns Bank, NA, while also facilitating loans through strategic partners for programs outside our portfolio.
What documentation is required for loan approval?
Equipment financing under $150,000 requires minimal documentation, while real estate and SBA loans need financial statements and tax returns. Marketplace loans vary by lender requirements.
How quickly can loans be funded?
Equipment and business loans fund in as little as 82 minutes. Real estate and SBA loans typically close within 45-90 days after application submission.
Do you charge upfront fees?
No application fees exist. Borrowers may pay due diligence fees like appraisals after accepting term sheets, with transparent fee estimates available upon request.
Can international businesses qualify for financing?
SEC only offers loan programs within the United States and Washington DC. International applicants don't qualify for our current lending products.
