Business Banking in Minnesota: A Guide for Small Business Owners
Minnesota’s economy thrives on industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, and technology. From startups in Minneapolis-St. Paul to family-owned farms across rural areas, small businesses are integral to the North Star State’s growth. However, managing finances effectively is crucial to overcoming challenges and sustaining success.
Key Challenges for Small Businesses in Minnesota
Small businesses in Minnesota face several banking-related challenges:
Access to Capital: Securing affordable loans or lines of credit can be difficult for startups or businesses with limited collateral.
High Banking Fees: Many traditional banks impose high fees for account maintenance and transactions.
Limited Digital Tools: Some banks lack modern digital features essential for efficient financial management.
Choosing the right bank can help small businesses overcome these hurdles by offering tailored solutions, competitive rates, and accessible tools. Below is a curated list of the best banks for small businesses in Minnesota.
The 10 Best Banks for Small Businesses in Minnesota
#1: Holdings (Best for Digital-First Banking)
Holdings is a top-tier choice for small businesses seeking a modern, digital-first banking experience. With no account fees, no minimum balances, and tiered APY rates that grow with your deposits (up to 3%), Holdings empowers businesses to save more while managing their finances seamlessly.
Pros:
$0 account fees and no minimum balance requirements
High APY rates: 1.5% ($50K-$250K), 2% ($250K-$1M), 3% (over $1M)
Free ACH transfers and domestic wires
Allpoint ATM network access with no fees
Cons:
No physical branches for in-person banking
Limited cash deposit options
Verdict: Holdings is perfect for tech-savvy entrepreneurs who prioritize cost-efficiency and advanced digital tools.
#2: U.S. Bank (Best National Bank)
Headquartered in Minneapolis, U.S. Bank offers fee-free checking packages along with lending options designed to support business growth.
Pros:
No transaction or maintenance fees on Silver Checking package
Nationwide accessibility via branches and ATMs
Specialized merchant services available
Cons:
Relatively low APY rates on savings accounts
Verdict: A solid choice for small businesses needing national reach and fee-free banking.
#3: Bremer Bank (Best Regional Bank)
Bremer Bank provides personalized service and competitive business checking accounts tailored to small businesses in Minnesota.
Pros:
Strong local presence with community-focused banking
Flexible financing options
Robust online banking tools
Cons:
Limited branch network outside Minnesota
Monthly fees unless balance thresholds are met
Verdict: Ideal for local businesses looking for personalized service and community support.
#4: Wells Fargo (Best for SBA Loans)
Wells Fargo is one of the nation’s top SBA lenders, offering comprehensive business services under one roof.
Pros:
Top SBA lender with favorable loan terms
Extensive branch network across Minnesota
Multiple business checking options
Cons:
Numerous banking fees
Low APY on savings accounts
Verdict: A great option for businesses seeking capital through SBA loans.
#5: Sunrise Banks (Best Community Bank)
Sunrise Banks combines excellent customer service with tailored business solutions designed specifically for Minnesota-based entrepreneurs.
Pros:
Personalized service from local experts
Flexible lending options
Strong focus on community support
Cons:
Limited branch network outside rural areas of Minnesota
Monthly fees unless waived
Verdict: Great choice for businesses that value personalized service from a community-focused bank.
#6: Chase (Best Payment Processing Features)
Chase’s Business Complete Banking® account includes QuickAccept®, allowing same-day deposits from card payments. It’s perfect for retail or service-based businesses.
Pros:
Integrated payment processing with QuickAccept®
Generous new customer bonuses (up to $500)
Extensive branch and ATM network
Cons:
Monthly fees unless waiver conditions are met
Low savings interest rates
Verdict: A strong choice for businesses that rely on credit card transactions.
#7: PNC Bank (Best Cash Flow Management Tools)
PNC Bank offers unique cash flow management tools through its Business Checking Plus account, making it ideal for growing enterprises.
Pros:
Cash Flow Insight® tools included
Waivable monthly maintenance fee
Extensive branch network
Cons:
Fees apply after free transaction limits exceeded
Higher minimum balance requirements
Verdict: A solid choice for businesses focused on optimizing cash flow.
#8: Bluevine (Best Online Banking Option)
Bluevine combines no-fee checking with a competitive 2.0% APY on balances up to $100K. It’s designed for online-first businesses seeking high-yield accounts without unnecessary fees.
Pros:
No monthly fees or transaction limits
High APY on balances
Seamless integration with accounting software
Cons:
Limited cash deposit options
No physical branches
Verdict: Ideal for digital-savvy entrepreneurs who want to earn interest on their funds.
#9: Bell Bank (Best Regional Expertise)
Bell Bank provides robust business solutions tailored to meet the needs of small business owners across the Midwest region.
Pros:
Comprehensive lending options
Advanced treasury management services
Strong regional presence
Cons:
Monthly maintenance fees unless waived
Limited free transactions on basic accounts
Verdict: A great option for growing businesses needing regional expertise and advanced tools.
#10: Citizens Bank (Best Customer Service)
Citizens Bank combines excellent customer service with tailored business solutions designed specifically for entrepreneurs across Minnesota.
Pros:
Personalized service from local experts
Flexible lending options
Strong focus on community support
Cons:
Limited branch network outside rural areas of Minnesota
Monthly fees unless waived
Verdict: Great choice for businesses that value personalized service from a community-focused bank.
Comparison Table
Bank | Monthly Fee | Min Deposit | Min Balance | Transaction Limits | ATM Access | Mobile App Rating | Branches in MN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holdings | $0 | $0 | $0 | Unlimited | Allpoint Network | 4.8/5 | None |
U.S. Bank | $10-$25 | $50 | Varies | Varies | Nationwide | 4.6/5 | 50+ |
Bremer Bank | $15-$25 | None | Varies | Varies | Local Network | 4.5/5 | 30+ |
Wells Fargo | $10-$75 | $25 | $500+ | 100+ | Nationwide | 4.6/5 | 40+ |
Sunrise Banks | $10-$50 | None | Varies | Unlimited | Regional Network | 4.5/5 | 20+ |
Conclusion
Minnesota’s diverse economy requires reliable banking partners that cater specifically to local needs while providing modern financial solutions. Whether you prioritize low costs, high yields, or personalized service, there’s an option tailored to your goals. For those seeking a cutting-edge digital-first solution, Holdings stands out as the best choice. Open your account today at GetHoldings.com and simplify your business finances!