ESL Federal Credit Union Earns #1 Ranking as Small Business Banking Lender in Greater Rochester Region
Rochester, NY — ESL Federal Credit Union earned the #1 spot for small business lending by loan volume in the Greater Rochester region by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). With 88 loans throughout Greater Rochester in the fiscal year ending Sept. 30, 2025, ESL provided more than $10 million in lending to small businesses across the region. ESL also provided 5 loans for $230,000 to the Buffalo region, bringing total SBA lending for ESL to 93 loans for the fiscal year.
“It’s an honor to be named as Rochester’s #1 SBA lender for the second consecutive year,” said Keith Cleary, ESL senior vice president/director, business banking. “Small businesses are essential in the economic growth of our region. This recognition is a testament to the strength and resilience of our business community and the results that come from collaborating as true partners.”
The average SBA loan amount through ESL in this latest fiscal year was approximately $110,000, which is significantly less than the regional average of approximately $210,000. This smaller average loan size further demonstrates the ESL commitment to assist businesses of all sizes.
“We know how important it is to build solid relationships with our business banking members from the beginning, especially as many of our business partnerships begin at the branch level or through the contact center,” said Mike Prince, ESL vice president/director, branch and contact center. “Our teams are well prepared to listen to the needs of our small business community and provide solutions to help them succeed.”
ESL also has strong community partnerships with local organizations such as SCORE and Pathstone that help provide financial support for businesses. To learn more about ESL Business Banking resources, please visit esl.org/business.
