Agenda - Council - 11/13/2012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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t Small business is big at Bank of the West. In 2011 we more than doubled the number of small business bankers to keep pace with strong demand for credit from small businesses. We understand small business and we understand businesses need choices when it comes to loans. That's why our business bankers are knowledgeable in conventional loans and lines of credit as well as in Small Business Administration lending. Access to credit As the economy began to expand again, many business owners were eager to invest in their companies and grow. That required access to credit. And Bank of the West has made lending a focus. Direct small business lending through our more than 650 branches rose 81 percent in 2011 compared to 2010. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans increased 58 percent. Our Bank moved up to become the fifth largest provider in 2011 of SBA 504 loans, which help business owners acquire commercial real estate. And in SBA 7a lending, we moved from being in the top 100 in 2010 to being among the nation's top 40 in 2011, We are not done. Bank of the West is continuing to expand our business banking capabilities. During 2012, Bank of the West expects to add more than 50 bankers to the 63 now working on the small- and medium-sized business banking team. A range of business banking products Our relationships with customers rarely end with a loan. We understand growing businesses require more than financing. We provide checking and savings accounts, plus credit cards and cash management services that enable small and medium-sized businesses to manage their cash fiow — and their business — more effectively. Our small business customers also take advantage of our equipment leasing and insurance capabilities. Small- and medium-sized businesses are a cornerstone of our communities and our economy and a vital source of jobs. In fact, according to the SBA's data, Bank of the West's SBA lending in 2011 contributed to the creation of more than 1,000 jobs. We are building on those 2011 results. We have a long tradition of lasting relationships with business owners, whether they are entrepreneurs, franchisees, or partners in family -owned businesses. We see tremendous opportunities to continue lending, providing deposit products and sharing financial advice to help businesses thrive and our economy grow. 9