As of May 15, 2026, City National Bank will no longer accept new applications for the Small Business Ladder Up Program.*
City National Small Business Ladder Up Program
Why City National?
We’re here to listen, learn and help your business succeed. Through this small business special purpose credit program (SPCP) you’ll get tailored consultations, easier access to capital and a wealth of educational resources all designed to support your goals.
Elevating Diverse Entrepreneurs
We are committed to empowering businesses that are often overlooked for funding yet represent the hearts of our communities. Our purpose is to offer comprehensive support to minority, women and LGBTQI+ entrepreneurs. If you are part of one or more
of these groups, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your specific needs and learn more.
Additional Benefits
Program Eligibility
Stories, Guidance & Perspectives
From understanding your goals to coming up with creative solutions, we’re here
to help navigate decisions about your business, so that you can grow with confidence.
FEATURED CONTENT
Small Business Resource Center
Our online resources can help small businesses overcome traditional challenges in acquiring capital. We’re here to help support and empower your business journey.
*Effective May 15th, 2026, the City National Small Business Ladder Up Program is no longer accepting new applications. Existing approved applications and active accounts remain unaffected and will continue to be serviced in accordance with their terms and conditions.
Financing under the Small Business Ladder Up Special Purpose Credit Program (SPCP) in select California, New York and Washington, D.C. geographies is subject to credit approval. All loans, lines of credit and other credit products are subject to credit approval. Additional terms and conditions apply. Not all applicants will qualify.
1Please refer to City National’s Account Agreement and Disclosures and applicable Fee Schedule for details.
2Monthly Maintenance Fee is waived for the first year on a Business Checking Account for an account owner who has received final approval of a qualifying Small Business Ladder Up Program loan. Limit one Business Checking Account with waived Monthly Maintenance Fee per approved business entity. Standard monthly maintenance fees per City National's Account Agreement and Disclosures and applicable Fee Schedule shall apply after the first year.
3The eligible for-profit small business must be more than 50% owned by minorities, women, or persons who identify as LGBTQI+. LGBTQI+ means persons who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning, intersex, asexual, etc. Minority racial categories include (i) Black or African American, (ii) American Indian or Alaska Native, (iii) Hispanic/Latino, (iv) Asian, or (v) Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander as defined by the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA).
4Small business refers to a U.S. registered for-profit business entity with $5 million or less in gross annual revenue in the prior fiscal year, or to the individual in the case of sole proprietorships applying for credit.
5Eligible borrower / business must complete an application and opt in by completing a demographic information form at application to qualify. City National Bank does not discriminate on any prohibited basis.