A strong banking partner demonstrates a commitment to small businesses by providing resources and tools designed to empower your success. Beyond simply storing funds, your business’s bank can impact your cash flow through account fees and features. They can also be a critical source of financing, offering loans and competitive interest rates to fuel your growth trajectory. But how do you find the best bank for your Ohio small business?

To help you find the best banking partner, we thoroughly evaluated account features and costs, loan options and rates, digital banking capabilities and customer service reputations of business banks in Ohio. The following banks offer essential tools for entrepreneurial success, including user-friendly banking platforms and competitive financing options.

The Top Banks for Small Businesses in Ohio

We combed through Ohio’s banks to find the top four choices for small business owners:

1. North One

Ohio small business owners interested in innovative digital banking solutions and services tailored to small businesses should consider North One. Founded as a financial technology company, North One is committed to simplifying business banking through its fully digital platform. This approach ensures business owners can efficiently manage their finances from any location, utilizing North One’s mobile and desktop applications. Integrating sales, payments and budgeting into a single Connected Bank Account makes it easy to oversee financial operations without the hassle of using multiple tools.

North One’s offerings are particularly useful to small business owners, who often have to juggle many responsibilities. Signing up with North One is easy and can be entirely done online, saving you time compared to traditional banking. Their platform includes essential tools for managing cash flow, like automated bill payments, revenue tracking and integration with accounting software. Moreover, North One provides access to flexible financial products like business lines of credit and term loans, ensuring businesses have the capital needed for growth and operational stability.

This bank’s robust customer support further enhances its services. North One users can get assistance via live chat or email, often faster than a drive to the bank. The platform’s security features, backed by FDIC insurance through its partnership with The Bancorp Bank, provide peace of mind for small business owners. Overall, North One presents a modern, efficient and secure banking solution that aligns well with the dynamic needs of the small business community.

2. Huntington Bank 

Huntington Bank may appeal to small business owners with its rich history in the region and robust support for local enterprises. Established in 1866 and headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Huntington Bank has a long-standing presence in the state. Their history is complemented by a broad network of approximately 970 branches across 11 states, ensuring easy access to banking services.

Huntington makes it easier for businesses to handle transactions and secure financing. They offer a range of tailored programs, including credit card processing, merchant services and SBA loans. As a top SBA lender for SBA 7(a) loans, Huntington demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting the growth and development of small businesses. Their comprehensive products and services are all designed to meet diverse business needs.

Huntington Bank’s philosophy emphasizes personalized customer service, fostering deep client relationships. Their mobile app and online banking tools, such as The Hub, provide powerful insights and features that help business owners manage their finances efficiently. Additional services like treasury management and fraud prevention tools further enhance the banking experience at Huntington Bank.

3. Fifth Third Bank

Ohio small business owners interested in a financial partner with a history in the state may also consider Fifth Third Bank. Their roots in Cincinnati are a testament to their longstanding dedication to supporting local communities and economies. This regional focus means that Fifth Third Bank understands Ohio businesses’ unique challenges and opportunities, allowing them to provide more personalized and relevant financial services.

Fifth Third Bank offers a variety of services tailored specifically for small businesses. Their business checking accounts come with low fees, numerous conveniences, such as online and mobile banking, and access to a vast network of ATMs and full-service banking centers. These features make daily financial management more accessible and less time-consuming. Additionally, Fifth Third provides comprehensive treasury management solutions, helping businesses streamline their cash flow, manage excess cash and handle payments efficiently.

Fifth Third Bank also offers access to flexible business lines of credit, which can be a lifeline for small businesses needing to cover short-term expenses or invest in growth opportunities. With options like the Fifth Third Fast Capital® Unsecured Line of Credit or Loan and various secured loan products, small businesses can find the right financing to meet their needs. Whether for managing daily operations or financing significant investments, Fifth Third designed its lending solutions to support small businesses at every stage of their development. 

4. Westfield Bank

Westfield Bank is another institution that emphasizes community banking and a dedication to serving local businesses. Since 2001, Westfield Bank has been committed to creating a better community bank by offering more flexible, faster, and personalized services than larger banks. Their local decision-making process and the empowerment of employees to act like owners ensure high customer care and responsiveness. Westfield Bank’s focus on maintaining a 5-star rating from BauerFinancial further highlights its dedication to excellence and community investment.

Westfield Bank’s commitment to small businesses is evident in its range of personalized financial guidance and loan options. They understand that thriving businesses are the foundation of healthy communities and strive to provide care for every customer. Their commercial banking team handles businesses of all sizes, ensuring customers have support at every stage of their journey.

In addition to personalized guidance and tailored loan options, Westfield Bank offers comprehensive cash management services designed to optimize business operations. They customized their business checking accounts, treasury management solutions and various other financial tools to meet each company’s unique needs. Services like remote check capture, wire transfers, ACH transfers and mobile deposits for businesses make managing finances convenient and efficient. By providing flexible, customized banking solutions, Westfield Bank ensures that small business owners can efficiently manage their cash flow and focus on growth and success.

How We Chose the Best Banks for Ohio Small Businesses

We embarked on a rigorous evaluation process to identify the top banks for Ohio small businesses. We assessed each bank based on a set of criteria key to your entrepreneurial success:

  • Account features and costs: We scrutinized business checking and savings accounts, comparing features like online bill pay, mobile deposits and check imaging alongside monthly maintenance fees, minimum balance requirements and interest rates on savings accounts. Finding an account that aligns with your operational needs and budget was paramount.
  • Loan options and rates: Access to capital is the lifeblood of growth. We assessed each bank’s loan offerings, including SBA loans, lines of credit and equipment financing. Competitive interest rates were also a key consideration.
  • Digital banking prowess: Efficiency is key in today’s fast-paced business environment. We examined each bank’s online and mobile banking capabilities, ensuring they offered user-friendly platforms for managing finances on the go.
  • Customer service focus: Sometimes, you need a helping hand. We delved into each bank’s customer service reputation, including responsiveness and availability through various channels (phone, online chat, in-person).

Need Help Choosing the Best Ohio Small Businesses Bank?

Choosing the right bank is a critical first step in building a solid foundation for your Ohio small business. Remember, the ideal partner goes beyond simply storing your money. They offer the tools and resources you need to succeed, including efficient cash flow management, access to growth capital, and expert guidance. By prioritizing factors like account features, loan options, digital capabilities and exceptional customer service, you can identify a bank that aligns perfectly with your specific needs and empowers your entrepreneurial vision. Take your time, explore the options presented here, and don’t settle for anything less than a financial partner who champions your success.