#USA #Small Business #Buffalo #MT Bank #SBA Lending

M&T Bank Achieves Record in SBA Lending

M&T Bank has made headlines by ranking as the number one small business lender in the U.S. for the 2026 fiscal year, as reported by the Small Business Administration (SBA). This significant achievement underscores the bank’s unwavering commitment to supporting small businesses across its footprint.

Record Loan Performance

In Fiscal Year 2026, M&T Bank approved a total of 2,975 SBA 7(a) loans, translating to nearly $326.44 million in funding for small businesses. This reflects impressive growth of 10% in both the number of loans and dollar amounts compared to Fiscal Year 2025, marking an increase of 274 loans and $32.5 million in loan dollars. Notably, M&T Bank also climbed from the seventh to the fifth position nationally among SBA lenders, demonstrating their strength in an increasingly challenging national lending landscape.

Eric Feldstein, M&T Bank’s Senior Executive Vice President and Head of Retail and Business Banking, attributed this success to the bank’s commitment to its clients. He stated, "M&T's longstanding commitment to small businesses is about more than providing access to capital; it's about being a trusted partner to entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey."

Recognizing Community Impact

M&T Bank’s performance is not just a number; it signifies the impact on local economies. Each loan represents an opportunity for business owners to pursue their dreams, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in their communities. The bank's top performance in the SBA lending space highlights its dedication to enhancing collaboration between various teams, which collectively strive to meet the diverse needs of their clients.

The demand for such lending services has only grown, especially considering the declining trend in SBA lending on a national scale—around 26% drop in volume and 12% in lending dollars year-over-year across the industry. M&T Bank has effectively countered this trend, solidifying its leadership position in the market.

Local Attributions

In addition to stellar overall performance, M&T achieved number one rankings in ten SBA districts across its operating territories. The bank maintained top positions in various regions, including Baltimore, Buffalo/Rochester, and several locations in New England, illustrating its agility in addressing regional needs.

Additionally, M&T Bank ranked tied for eighth nationally as an SBA 504 Third-Party Lender by providing 55 loans worth approximately $50.88 million. The SBA 504 program is crucial for businesses needing support for long-term investments, such as purchasing commercial real estate or major equipment.

Supporting Entrepreneurs

M&T Bank's approach transcends conventional lending. Bank employees actively engage with entrepreneurs, seeking to understand their unique challenges and provide tailored solutions. This collaborative approach differentiates M&T as a lender that truly invests in the relationships it builds.

An excellent example of this in action is the story of Mid Atlantic Port Service, a Baltimore-based company. Faced with soaring rental costs, they partnered with M&T Bank to secure $5.7 million in SBA 504 financing, allowing them to purchase a facility and consolidate their operations under one roof. This partnership not only ensures long-term stability for the business but also facilitates continued growth without tying up essential working capital.

CEO Marc Cruise praised M&T Bank’s understanding of their operational needs, stating that it was critical in helping the company navigate toward sustainable growth. This reflects M&T Bank’s broader mission of being a supportive ally for small businesses.

Conclusion

As M&T Bank celebrates this remarkable achievement, it underscores a larger narrative about the bank's role in fostering strong, resilient communities through small business support. With an unwavering focus on growth, relationships, and understanding client needs, M&T Bank sets a benchmark for the future of SBA lending. To explore M&T Bank’s small business lending options, visit their official website at mtb.com.