The morning you pass by that empty storefront on your daily commute — the one perfect for your second location — is not the time to discover your bank doesn’t understand small business growth.
Choosing the right banking partner is one of the most critical financial decisions a small business owner will make. Yet, many entrepreneurs devote more time to less urgent matters than selecting the right lender — a costly oversight.
A great banking relationship offers more than competitive interest rates or low fees. It’s about finding a partner who truly understands doing business in Delaware, whether you’re launching a tech startup in Wilmington or renovating your restaurant in Bethany Beach.
The right banking partner will support you when opportunities arise and will provide both certainty of execution and a sense of urgency that enables you to focus on what is most important – leading your business and taking care of your customers.
The Value of Being Local – the M&T Bank Difference!
When unexpected opportunities arise — whether it’s acquiring a boutique in Lewes, expanding your medical practice in Middletown, or opening that second location in Wilmington or Rehoboth Beach — you need quick answers. You don’t want to spend time re-telling your story or explaining The Delaware Way. You want someone right here in Delaware who shares your vision and understands the local markets. For these reasons, M&T Bank prides itself on local decision-making and local relationship management. You know your bankers, and your bankers know you.
Local expertise is more important than most business owners realize. Your banker should ask thoughtful questions about your goals, challenges, and what keeps you up at night. They should understand the unique needs of Main Street shops in Dover and Newark, as well as the seasonal rhythms of coastal businesses — because they live and work here, too.
A strong banking partner evaluates your entire financial picture and suggests solutions you might not have considered. For instance, they can explain whether a traditional loan or an SBA loan better suits your needs. They also bring stability, having supported Delaware’s small business community through various economic cycles.
The strongest banking relationships are not built on transactions. They’re built on understanding, trust, and a commitment to the local community. M&T Bank is committed to Delaware!
Funding Your Next Chapter
Consider the Sussex County contractor who now employs 20 people, or the family-owned manufacturing business in New Castle that continues to grow. These success stories happen because local banks empower business owners with the right financial tools at the right time.
For established businesses with strong credit histories, traditional bank loans often provide the best path forward, offering competitive rates and clear terms.
For startups or businesses in unconventional industries, SBA loans can be a game-changer. They’re ideal for ventures with strong potential that may not yet meet traditional lending requirements. For example, a thriving food truck looking to transition into a permanent restaurant near the UD campus could benefit from the lower down payments and flexible terms associated with SBA loans.
A good banking partner like M&T Bank will guide you through these options, helping you identify the solution that best fits your needs. They’ll look beyond the numbers on your application to recognize your business’s true potential.
Strong Banks, Stronger Communities
Partnering with a bank that consistently ranks among the nation’s top SBA lenders — and has been number one in Delaware for over a decade — means working with an institution that knows how small businesses uplift communities, create jobs, and drive economic growth.
Such a bank combines the capabilities of a large institution with the personal touch of a local bank, transforming small business dreams into neighborhood success stories. When Delaware’s small businesses thrive, so do its communities — and the right banking partner helps make that possible.
Mark Hutton is the M&T Regional President for Delaware.
