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T he majority of Connecticut businesses — 97 percent — employ less than 500 people, according to Small Business Administration (SBA) numbers cited by the Connecticut Economic Resource Council Something they have in common is that they all need funds to grow. Connecticut SBA lending has risen steadily over the past five years, according to the administration; its 7a and 504 loans totaled 811 in the last year valued at $254,272,000. No matter how many Connecticut small businesses open or how quickly SBA-loan demand grows, Webster Bank remains solid in its commitments to clients and its comprehensive process of working with business owners. Collaborative support The SBA doesn't just hand out loans to small businesses. Rather, it engages trusted partners — such as Webster Bank — to work with business owners on guidelines that will reduce lender risk and support owner success. In order for such a transaction to work, it has to produce a successful outcome for everyone. Strong relationships are the conduit. Business owners who have dealt with impersonal banks see a different mode of operation at Webster. "We review business plans and meet with them multiple times," said Robert Polito Jr., Webster Bank director of government guaranteed lending. "We spend a lot of time with these folks: learning who they are | The team at Webster Bank brings strong SBA professionals, such as Kelly Zappulla, Robert Polito Jr., Joanne Miller and Holly Campo de la Vera to the table. Whether your firm is looking to sell or acquire a business, you can count on customized, expert direction and guidance. | PHOTOS | GARY LEWIS BY SUSAN SHALHOUB SBA loan demand rises, with Webster Bank a trusted partner Sponsored Content WEBSTER BANK INTELLIGENCE SERIES

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