As fall and winter approach, Arizona becomes a magnet for tourists seeking sunshine, outdoor adventures, and local charm. From the snowy slopes of Flagstaff and Mt. Lemmon to the golf resorts of Scottsdale, our state sees a surge in visitors—and spending—during the cooler months. For small business owners, this is the time to shine. But to truly capitalize on the season, financial preparation is key.

At National Bank of Arizona, we understand the unique rhythms of doing business in our state. Here’s how you can get your finances in shape before the crowds arrive—and how we can help.

Assess your seasonal cash flow needs

Before the season begins, take a close look at your cash flow. Do you have enough working capital to cover increased inventory, staffing, and marketing? Many businesses experience a cash crunch in the lead-up to peak season because expenses rise before revenue does.

Tip: Review last year's financials to estimate how much you'll need to invest up front. If there's a gap, now is the time to explore financing options.

Finance inventory strategically

Tourists bring demand, and demand requires inventory. Whether you sell apparel, souvenirs, food, or outdoor gear, you’ll likely need to stock up well before the season starts. But large inventory purchases can tie up your cash.

Tip: Work with suppliers to negotiate early-order discounts or extended payment terms. Then, use financing to brdige the gap between purchase and profit.

Budget for seasonal staffing

Hiring and training seasonal employees is another major expense. Wages, onboarding, and scheduling software all add up. Planning ahead ensures you’re not scrambling—or overspending—when demand spikes.

Tip: Build a seasonal staffing budget that includes wages, training time, and any incentives you plan to offer.

Invest in marketing before the rush

Tourists often plan their trips—and spending—weeks or months before they arrive. That means your marketing efforts should start early. Whether it’s digital ads, local partnerships, or seasonal promotions, marketing is an investment that pays off when done right.

Tip: Allocate a portion of your seasonal budget to marketing and track your return on investment (ROI) to see what works best.

Prepare for the unexpected

Even in peak season, surprises happen—equipment breaks, weather shifts, or supply chains can be delayed. Having a financial cushion can help you stay agile and avoid disruptions.

Tip: Prepare an emergency fund now to help you stay prepared for the unexpected. Keep your emergency fund in a separate, but easy-to-access business savings account.

How we can help

We're here to help you turn seasonal opportunities into lasting success. Here's how we can support your business during peak season:

Business Lines of Credit: Access funds when you need them to manage seasonal cash flow. Draw only what you need and pay interest on the amount used.

SBA Loans: We help you navigate the SBA loan process, offering competitive rates and longer repayment terms for inventory, staffing, or working capital.

Learn how you can get a 1.50% rate discount on an SBA loan.

Merchant Services: Merchant Services provide you with tools to make getting paid quick, easy, and efficient. From a simple smartphone or tablet-based card reader to a full point-of-sale (POS) system, they provide customizable solutions to set you up for success.

Business Savings Accounts & Credit Cards: Emergencies happen. That's where having a separate emergency savings account or a credit card for unexpected expenses can help you roll with the punches.

Let's build a financial strategy that sets you up for success during the peak season. Schedule a Business Needs Assessment today to explore your options and get ahead of the season.