Can banks win back small business customers?

According to the Federal Reserve Small Business Credit Survey 2025 small to medium size businesses (SMBs) have some lending gaps. 49% of SMBs have unmet financial needs or experienced a financing shortfall. 46% felt lender requirements were too strict. Business lines of credit remain the most sought-after lending product. Community banks share of SMB lending market has been decreasing over the years, going from 39% in 2020 to 28% in 2025. Applicants who turned to online lenders prioritized the speed of the application process. Applicants regularly choose their lender based on relationship. Borrowers’ expectations and perceptions don’t always coincide with reality. This episode reviewed a blog post from PCBB titled “How CFIs can win back SMB lending.” A link to the blog post is included below. Link:  How CFIs Can Win Back SMB Lending