The financial crisis has made it more difficult for small businesses to borrow funds, but many small companies have actually managed to improve their credit profiles in recent years, according to a study. "Business owners today are much more aware of how important it is to maintain a strong credit profile," Stephen Lankler of Direct Capital said. "That was not the case five to seven years ago when it was much easier for a business to access credit." It's a good idea for business owners to check over their companies' credit reports and to make sure they pay their bills promptly.