The study also examines aspects of quality and manners of service delivery that small business establishments consider as important and expect to be provided by their banks. The relationship between banks and small businesses has always been one of mutual dependence.
Small businesses are a very important customer group for banks.
While large corporations have access to a variety of capitalization alternatives, bank loans are often the small business owner's only option. Furthermore, while large companies have experts and departments providing input to their financial decisions, small business owners often have no one to turn to for advice but the bank. They need considerable guidance and hand holding. As such, the typical small business banking relationship involves more than just the exchange of money for a note. Banks usually provide small businesses with an array of services including advice about capital needs and uses, and information regarding industry performance and outlook.