Insights and Advice from your Community Banker: Christina Smaczniak
November 1, 2025
In today’s fast-paced business environment, staying informed is key to making confident financial decisions. That’s why we’re launching our new Q&A series, designed to connect you with seasoned banking professionals who are ready to provide practical advice and strategic guidance tailored to your business needs. Join us as we tackle real-world topics and empower you with the knowledge to thrive.
Christina Smaczniak
Business Banking Credit Director - Government Lending
Portfolio Management, Credit Projects and Strategy
Christina Smaczniak is a Senior Vice President at M&T Bank, where she leads Small Business and Government Lending. Since joining the bank in 2001, she has built a distinguished career across multiple lines of business, combining deep operational expertise with strategic leadership. Under her direction, M&T Bank has maintained its Preferred Lender Program status and, in FY 2025, ranked as the top SBA lender in its communities by loan volume and among the top 10 lenders nationally.
Building financial confidence:
Common questions and clear answers to help you grow.
How does M&T Bank differentiate its SBA lending approach from other institutions in the region?
Small businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. At M&T Bank, we build relationships by listening first—understanding what matters most to you and your business. With decades of SBA experience, we’re here to provide the tools and support you need to turn your vision into reality.
What are the most common challenges small businesses face when applying for SBA loans?
Before an SBA loan can be approved, lenders need to confirm that the business meets the program’s eligibility requirements. This extra step means the process can take a little longer than a traditional loan. There are also SBA guarantee fees, which are charged to secure the government guarantee—but the good news is these fees can usually be rolled into the loan amount, so you don’t have to pay them upfront.
How does M&T Bank incorporate SBA lending into its strategy for supporting small businesses in the community?
Leveraging SBA programs enables us to expand access to capital for small businesses within the communities we serve. These programs provide flexible solutions to meet a variety of financing needs—whether starting or acquiring a business, purchasing equipment, completing renovations, refinancing existing debt, or acquiring real estate. By providing capital, we are help the communities we support grow and thrive.
Can you share an example of how SBA loans have helped local businesses grow or stay resilient during tough times?
A great example was the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) during the pandemic. SBA loans made it possible for small businesses to keep employees on payroll and cover essential expenses. And because these loans could be forgiven, many businesses were able to survive one of the toughest times in recent history.
What’s the difference between SBA loans and traditional business lending products?
SBA loans offer more flexibility than traditional loans. For example, those with terms under 15 years don’t have prepayment costs, meaning you can pay off a loan early without added charges. SBA programs also provide competitive interest rate caps, which help protect against significant increases. Lastly, because the loans are partially guaranteed, an upfront fee is required. But this can be financed into the loan amount.
According to statistics released by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for total approved loans through the SBA's 7(a) lending program during the federal fiscal year ending 9/30/2025.
All loans, lines of credit and all terms referenced herein are subject to receipt of a complete M&T application, credit approval and other conditions. Terms offered are available for business purpose loans only, but are not available for refinancing or consolidating existing M&T credit or credit requiring an SBA loan guaranty. Loans may be subject to commitment and prepayment fees, as applicable. Borrower is responsible for any appraisal, environment assessment, title insurance, and bank attorney fees that may apply. Other terms, conditions, fees, and restrictions may apply.
Unless otherwise specified, all advertised offers and terms and conditions of accounts and services are subject to change at any time without notice. After an account is opened or service begins, it is subject to its features, conditions and terms, which are subject to change at any time in accordance with applicable laws and agreements. Please contact an M&T representative for details.
This article is for informational purposes. It is not designed or intended to provide financial, tax, legal, investment, accounting, or other professional advice since such advice always requires consideration of individual circumstances. Please consult with the professionals of your choice to discuss your situation.