Small-business lending has long been a cornerstone of community bankers’ portfolios. But a combination of forces — including the longest-running contraction in consumer lending on record and intense pressure from policymakers — promises to intensify competition in this sector.

The Obama administration is using a variety of programs and incentives to try to stimulate small-business growth and hiring. The government is also urging banks to take second and third looks at previously rejected business loan applications even as banks remain under intense regulatory pressure to maintain underwriting standards. The net result: a playing field that is changing rapidly and will likely continue to do so for years to come.

Benefits for attending:

• Find out where there are emerging opportunities, by market and business sector
• Hear strategies for deepening relationships with small businesses
• Learn how to reevaluate a potential credit without running afoul of examiners
• Discover long-term small-business lending trends
• Get the chance to submit your small business lending questions to our speakers

Speakers:

• David Bartram, Executive Vice President, SBA Division Manager, Seacoast Commerce Bank



Mr. Bartram has 27 years of banking experience specific to Small Business Administration lending. In his current role, David is building an SBA lending platform for the western United States. In 1984, he joined Bank of Commerce (BofC) and over the next 15 years BofC became the leading SBA Bank lender nationally. In 1999 Bank of Commerce was acquired by U.S. Bank and David became President of the SBA Division and Executive Vice President managing all aspects of SBA lending across the U.S. Bank’s footprint.



• Ralph A. Citino,, Senior Vice President, Small Business Banking, WSFS Bank



Mr. Citino has over 20 years banking experience working with the small business segment at regional and community banks, including managing relationships, leading sales teams, organizing and conducting business development efforts, developing training programs, implementing product changes and enhancements and reviewing and providing feedback for government programs as related to small business. As Small Business Banking Director, Mr. Citino is responsible for all aspects of the small business unit and for building profitable loan and deposit portfolios.



• Greg Clarkson, SBA Division Manager, BBVA Compass



Mr. Clarkson has 25 years of banking experience, the last 16 years in the SBA industry. As a member of the original team that established BBVA Compass’ SBA Division in 1996, he has helped increase the current production level to over $270 million annually. He frequently works with Congress and SBA Central Office staff to resolve issues surrounding the delivery of capital to the nation’s small businesses. In 2008, Clarkson received the trade association’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award.




Moderator:

• Alan Kline, Editor, U.S. Banker



This seminar is brought to you by the editors of American Banker and U.S. Banker



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