In 2024, the FBI’s IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) reported a total loss of $16.6 billion due to cyber-related scams. In the same year, the largest known cyber ransom in history, $75 million, was paid for an extortion attack on a Fortune 50 company. This growing security concern was the topic of FirstBank’s recent “Decrypting… Read More


Influencer marketing has become one of the most effective tools in digital marketing. In fact, 90% of small businesses use social media as part of their existing marketing efforts. While it’s still a relatively new strategy, it’s proven to help drive growth, build trust, and create deeper connections with customers. Here’s how business owners can… Read More


FirstBank has always been an avid supporter and promoter of local businesses and manufacturing companies. This is why we’re especially excited to partner with the Colorado Chamber of Commerce on their Coolest Thing Made in Colorado contest, an annual competition celebrating the state’s manufacturing industry. It’s a unique opportunity for Colorado manufacturers to put their best… Read More


If you were denied during the business loan process, don’t panic — you’re not the only one. Nearly 20% of all small business loan applications are rejected due to several factors, like insufficient business or personal credit history. While being denied may seem like a setback, it’s an opportunity to set your business up for… Read More


When applying for small business loans, it’s important to thoroughly examine your options to ensure they are safe and legitimate. A LexisNexis© report found that small business lending fraud increased by 13.6% year-over-year, with 64% of respondents anticipating the problem worsening each year. As lending fraud becomes more common, business owners should learn how to… Read More


New business opportunities are emerging in the wake of the so-called Silver Wave or “Silver Tsunami,” each referring to the mass retirement of baby boomers — individuals born between 1946 and 1964. With, 53% of business owners planning to sell or transfer business ownership within the next decade, this societal shift is creating new opportunities… Read More


Did you know 63% of organizations experience check fraud? According to an AFP® Payments Fraud and Control Report, checks are considered the most vulnerable payment methods susceptible to fraud. That’s because checks contain significant sensitive personal information like bank account and routing numbers, physical addresses, and signatures. While checks are clearly the most susceptible to… Read More


Did you know 40% of businesses that encounter a disaster or emergency close permanently after? That’s why emergency planning and disaster preparation is key to the success of business in the aftermath. Disasters and other emergency events can cause damage, delays, and interruptions to your business, leading to potentially devastating financial losses. Here are some… Read More