- Operating accounts, not savings accounts, drive durable business deposit growth.
- Treasury management gives businesses a reason to move their operating account.
- A sales culture, fast onboarding and tools for large balances keep deposits growing.
Many credit unions have strong business lending but struggle to hold business deposits. Loans without deposits create a funding gap. The fix is to become the place where a business runs its money, not just where it borrows.
1. Lead with treasury management
Businesses move their operating account to the institution that helps them pay, collect and protect cash. Treasury management is that reason.
2. Build a sales culture
Train branch managers and frontline staff to recognize business needs in everyday conversations, and give them a simple way to refer opportunities to specialists.
3. Ask for the operating account with every loan
Make deposit relationships part of every commercial and SBA loan conversation.
4. Make onboarding fast and personal
A business that is live within days is a business that moves more money with you.
5. Keep large balances safe
Offer extended deposit insurance and sweeps so growing balances never need to leave.
6. Reach new markets
Municipalities, nonprofits and professional practices often hold significant balances and value a local partner.
What results can look like
- One Midwest credit union grew business deposits 372% in three years and added more than 300 commercial members using treasury services.
- Another grew commercial deposits from $30 million to $150 million over five years and passed $1 billion in assets.
Frequently asked questions
Why do credit unions struggle with business deposits?
Many lack the treasury services businesses need to run their operating accounts, so deposits stay at another institution.
What is the fastest way to grow business deposits?
Offer treasury management, ask for the operating account with every loan and onboard business members quickly.
Do business deposits cost less than other funding?
Operating account balances are often lower cost and more stable than many other funding sources.