Robert Thorpe

Editor, Personal Finance

EXPERTISE

Small business loans
Business grants
Bad credit loans
Credit cards
Cash back credit cards
Travel credit cards

EDUCATION

Master of Arts in Communication, Johns Hopkins University
Bachelor of Arts (English) with a minor in psychology from the University of Massachusetts

As an editor for Bankrate, Robert Thorpe is passionate about providing content that helps readers make great financial decisions. He currently focuses on helping business owners find affordable loans. His work covers various topics, including SBA loans, small business grants, equipment loans, and business loans for bad credit. It is especially rewarding for him when he helps people in underserved communities get the necessary capital to start or grow their businesses.

In the past, Robert has written and edited credit card content for several Red Ventures brands, including Bankrate, CreditCards.com, and The Points Guy. He has 11 cash back credit cards and enjoys showing people how to maximize rewards to fight inflation. He also has experience researching and reviewing credit cards that help people save on travel costs.

In addition to Red Ventures, Robert has written and edited for the Motley Fool, covering personal finance topics, which include credit cards, personal loans, auto and homeowners insurance, and cryptocurrency.

Robert's recommended readings

Robert's latest articles

How Kainos Leather became a 5-star Etsy business

Learn how Kaleb George turned his love for leather into a successful Etsy business, Kainos Leather. Discover the origin story and secrets to his 5-star shop.

6 min read Nov 13, 2023
Survey: More holiday shoppers will likely shop on Small Business Saturday than Black Friday this year

Small Business Saturday is gaining in popularity among holiday shoppers. A recent Bankrate survey shows that more people are planning to shop on Small Business Saturday than on Black Friday.

9 min read Nov 13, 2023
7 ways to make the most of Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday is a powerful opportunity for local, independent businesses to engage with shoppers who are eager to support their community.

5 min read Nov 13, 2023
Black Friday vs. Small Business Saturday: Which major shopping event is right for your small business?

While Black Friday and Small Business Saturday both offer opportunities for small businesses to boost sales, they each have their pros and cons.

5 min read Nov 08, 2023
Best small business loans for under $5,000

Small business loans of $5,000 or less can provide a much-needed boost to entrepreneurs with limited resources.

8 min read Nov 07, 2023
Tips for preparing your small business for the holidays

With the holiday season expected to bring in $221.8 billion in sales, small businesses can attract new customers by creating a holiday plan, leveraging social media, stocking up on inventory, and adding [...]

6 min read Nov 07, 2023
Small business grants for felons

These resources can help entrepreneurs with criminal records finance their goals.

11 min read Oct 13, 2023
Live Oak vs. U.S. Bank : Which small business lender is right for you?

Live Oak Bank and U.S. Bank both offer various small business loans. Live Oak excels in SBA loans, and U.S. Bank stands out for its fast business loan option and robust equipment loan.

4 min read Oct 10, 2023