December 18, 2025 By Tom Meyer

A new year brings a fresh opportunity for small business owners to pause, reflect and set meaningful goals for the months ahead. On the latest Morning Blend segment, Centrust Bank explored how the right financial strategy can help turn those New Year’s resolutions into measurable growth.

For many business owners, 2025 goals go beyond “working harder” and focus instead on working smarter. That often means making strategic investments that position the business for long-term success — whether that’s purchasing commercial real estate, upgrading equipment, expanding operations or restructuring ownership.

One of the most common goals discussed on the show was buying or owning the space your business operates in. Owning real estate can provide stability, build equity and protect businesses from rising rents. SBA financing makes this goal more attainable by offering longer repayment terms and lower down payments than traditional commercial loans, helping preserve working capital for daily operations.

Another priority many businesses are setting for the new year is investing in equipment and technology. From manufacturing machinery to specialized tools, upgraded equipment can improve efficiency, reduce maintenance costs and open the door to new revenue streams. SBA loans allow business owners to finance these upgrades over time, aligning payments with the useful life of the equipment.

Ownership transitions are also top of mind for many entrepreneurs. Buying out a partner, acquiring a business or planning for succession can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. As discussed on Morning Blend, SBA financing can be structured to support these transitions — even allowing qualified owners to complete buyouts with little to no money down in certain situations.

What stood out most in the conversation was the importance of planning early. Setting financial goals at the beginning of the year helps givebusiness owners time to prepare, evaluate options and work with lending experts who understand their industry and long-term vision.

A successful New Year’s resolution isn’t just about ambition — it’s about execution. With thoughtful planning and the right financial partner, small businesses can turn big ideas into achievable milestones and make 2025 a year of confident, sustainable growth.

Watch the full segment to learn more: