- Financing solutions Connecting small business owners with financing solutions
- How it works Learn how we make the complex clear and the process seamless.
- About us We’re your dedicated small business financial partner.
- Resources Guidance, tools, and support to help your business thrive.
Your partner in growth
Get the tools and support to connect more clients with the right financing and grow your business with SmartBiz Bank.
A partner experience designed to grow with you
Our partner experience combines technology, education, resources, and personalized support to make it easier to work with SmartBiz Bank. As our business grows together, there are more opportunities to collaborate, connect with our team, and build an approach that supports your goals.
Identify more opportunities
Build your knowledge and confidence with resources designed to help you recognize financing needs, understand SBA lending opportunities and connect more small business owners with potential solutions.
Make it easier to do business
Use Partner Assist to submit referrals and follow their progress, while SmartBiz resources, education and support help make it easier to navigate the process and serve your clients.
Resources to help you succeed
Get practical tools and education you can use to identify opportunities, engage your network and confidently talk with clients about financing.
We’ve redefined the small business lending experience
By combining technology with personalized support, we’ve made it easier for you to connect your clients with financing. Our team works alongside you and your clients to help navigate the SBA loan process from application through funding.
We help you:
• Understand what makes a strong SBA loan opportunity
• Prepare your clients Navigate SBA requirements
• Stay informed Get the resources and support you need
With SmartBiz, you have greater visibility into your referrals and a team focused on helping you and your clients move forward. When your clients succeed, your business and our partnership can grow with them.
Grow your business with SmartBiz Bank
Whether you're referring your first client or looking to expand an established relationship, SmartBiz gives you the tools, resources and support to help you take the next step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a SmartBiz Partner?
Complete the online partner sign-up, create your Partner Assist account, and provide your business information. Our Partner Success team will review your application and complete the required background checks before approving your account.
How long does partner approval take?
Approval timing varies depending on how quickly the application is completed and whether additional information is needed. Once your application is complete, our Partner Success team will review it and keep you updated throughout the process.
Is there a minimum referral or loan volume required?
There is no minimum referral volume required to get started. Partners can refer opportunities as they arise.
What loan products and loan amounts can I refer?
SmartBiz supports both SBA 7(a) and bank term loan opportunities. SBA 7(a) loans are available from $50,000–$350,000, bank term loans from $50,000–$300,000, and Lines of Credit $50,000–$100,000. Available products and amounts depend on the borrower’s qualifications.
What types of businesses can I refer, and where does SmartBiz lend?
SmartBiz works with a wide range of established, for-profit small businesses and can support borrowers across the U.S., including California and Texas. Eligibility varies by product and may depend on factors such as time in business, revenue, credit history, cash flow, ownership, and intended use of funds.
How does SmartBiz work with my borrowers and keep me updated?
Partners can choose how involved they want to be in the borrower relationship. SmartBiz can communicate directly with borrowers or coordinate closely with your team based on your communication preferences. Partners can also track application status and next steps through Partner Assist and receive relevant email updates.
Who will I work with at SmartBiz on my referrals?
Your Partner Success Manager is your main point of contact for the overall partnership. Individual deals may also be assigned to SmartBiz Account Executives and Relationship Managers who help move the application through the loan process.
What happens if one of my referrals doesn’t qualify?
Not every referral will qualify for financing. SmartBiz evaluates available loan options based on the borrower’s information and eligibility. If an opportunity does not qualify, your SmartBiz team can help clarify the outcome and whether another available product may be a fit.
How are referral partner commissions structured and paid?
The standard referral commission is 2% of the funded loan amount, typically paid 10–15 days after funding, subject to the terms of the Bank’s Partner Agreement. SBA loans may also qualify for additional tier-based incentives based on funded volume. These additional volume incentives currently apply to SBA loans rather than bank term loans.