demand payment for personal loan Other Debt

I loaned a friend $2000 approximately 2 1/2yrs ago for his business (he's a Contractor).The loan was to be paid in full within 2mos. I've been paid $300. He's a flake. It seems he's not intent on paying the debt. If his intentions were righteous, I wouldn't be sending this message. He recently purchased a coffee cart and is open for business. There is no written agreement (live n learn). We correspond primarily by texting. I've saved almost 2 years of our texts detailing the loan and promise of payment. What can I do to get my money back? It may not be a lot of money but it was all I had. I'm a single parent of a 6yr old boy. I've never been rude or nasty with this man. Obviously, I trusted him. Any ideas would be appreciated. Thank you!