Helping Businesses Source Finance from AIB

These are challenging times for every business. Change came rapidly to the economy and many businesses have been feeling the strain as they adjust to the altered economic environment.

As Ireland's leading business bank*, AIB is ready to work with our Small & Medium Enterprise (SME) customers through these difficult times. We want to help you manage through the downturn and position your business for the economic recovery that will come.

*according to Ipsos MRBI research October 2009

AIB understands that the particular needs of your business may have changed with the business environment. Now more than ever, it is important for business owners to stay in touch with their bank and other finance providers. So do keep us up to date on how your business is doing and what your plans are; the more we know, the more likely we can help with your current and future financial needs.

It is widely accepted that access to bank credit for viable businesses is critical to ensure that the SME sector survives the current economic difficulties and positions itself to benefit from an international upturn, in time.

AIB has always been, and will continue to be a strong advocate that banks and businesses must work together in addressing the challenges presented in what is an extremely difficult operating environment. We will try to be as accommodating as possible to meet your needs and respond in a realistic and pragmatic way. While the credit process may be more arduous and lengthy than you are used to, we will take personal ownership of your request, and make every effort to respond favourably in as short a timeframe as possible.

In circumstances where we have to say no to a request for credit, we will do it directly, giving clear rationale for our decision and make every effort to work with you to find an alternative solution. We are determined to show that we are very much 'open for business' and committed to providing financial support and advice to our customers, being mindful of the current realities we all face right now.

This guide aims to help our business customers who are seeking bank finance from AIB. It explains the information we will need to make a credit decision. It also aims to explain some credit terminology and details different types and alternative sources of funding that may be appropriate to your circumstances.

AIB is fully committed to supporting our SME customers with a comprehensive range of financial products and services to meet your needs. We can also provide you with expert knowledge and advice based on our long experience in the business market.

In all our dealings with you, we are committed to acting with integrity and professionalism - in the best interest of both your business and ours.

Our Commitment to You:

AIB will:

• Approach each lending application on an individual basis, within the background of AIB's values and principles
• Clearly communicate the cost, terms and conditions of credit sought
• Tell you how long approximately it will take to process your lending application and aim to give you an answer as soon as possible
• Give a clear explanation for any decision to decline a formal credit application
• Offer all new and existing SME business customers an annual review of credit facilities and supporting security

You can select a chapter from the list below, or download the full guide in PDF format:

1. Applying for Finance - The 5 "C"'s

2. Applying for Bank Finance - Your Proposal

3. Finding the Right Lending Product for Your Business

4. Some Credit Jargon Explained

5. Other Funding Sources

Imprtant Regulatory Information

Allied Irish Banks p.l.c. and AIB Insurance Services Ltd are regulated by the Financial Regulator.

Credit Facilities

Lending criteria, terms and conditions apply. Credit facilities are subject to repayment capacity and financial status and are not available to persons under 18 years of age. Security may be required.

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