Prepare, prepare, prepare if you want to get your bank loan...

Getting a bank loan for your business may be more difficult than usual in today's troubled economy. However, if you give your bank a thorough, organized, and well-supported loan proposal, you'll increase your chances of getting the money your business needs.

* Apply early. Applying early shows that you're planning, not reacting. Also, if you wait until the last minute, you're likely to leave out necessary information.