Commercial Insights

Business success needs a game plan

Whether it’s student-athletes starting businesses or established companies getting to the next level, Regions coaches business builders to turn ideas into lasting success.

Key insights

• Entrepreneurship continues to drive economic growth across the U.S.
• More than 5 million new businesses are launched annually.
• Business success requires both financial resources and strategic guidance.
• Regions supports entrepreneurs through every stage of growth.
• SEC Startup helps student-athletes develop entrepreneurial skills.
• Financial literacy builds confidence for future business leaders.

As football season kicks off, the competitive spirit that defines the SEC once again takes center stage. Need one example? SEC Startup – a student-athlete pitch competition – is helping student-athletes set out on the right foot, harnessing the discipline they gained on the field to drive success in life beyond the campus.

Yet entrepreneurial energy is found in all walks of American life, with new businesses and startups launching at a rapid pace. Over the past few years, annual new business applications have consistently exceeded 5 million a year, well above pre-2020 levels. In turn, that surge of new business activity drives innovation, creates jobs, and injects new energy into the economy for long-term growth.

At Regions Bank, that momentum represents a future without limits. That’s why Regions is committed to helping entrepreneurs transform their ideas into successful businesses that, in turn, strengthen communities and contribute to a growing economy.

“Entrepreneurs have always been among the most powerful drivers of economic growth,” said Nikki Stephenson, head of commercial banking for Regions Bank. “We are proud of Regions’ long track record of helping entrepreneurs and businesses start, grow and thrive. Every successful company begins with a vision, and there are few things more fulfilling for us than helping a business owner turn that vision into reality.”

Proof of this commitment is found in Regions’ combination of strategic guidance, local presence, and industry knowledge to address real-world business challenges.

Whether an owner is navigating startup decisions, managing cash flow, preparing for growth, or exploring financing options, Regions bankers are there to help. More than providing financial services, they work to act as a business owner’s key business advantage, offering wisdom and guidance at every stage of the business life cycle.

Relationships that focus on growth

For many entrepreneurs, starting and growing a business can feel both exciting and overwhelming. Regions believes strong relationships help make the journey more successful, not to mention a lot less scary.

“Our relationship managers are more than bankers — they are advocates, problem-solvers and trusted companions on the path to success,” Stephenson said. “We take the time to understand each client’s goals and challenges. That way, we can deliver banking and financial solutions tailored to a business owner’s unique journey. That personal approach is one of the reasons so many business owners choose Regions as a long-term financial guide.”

SEC Startup: Focusing on the next generation of business leaders

This commitment extends to entrepreneurs from all walks of life — including the next generation of business leaders.

As one example, Regions Bank is the presenting sponsor of SEC Startup a student-athlete pitch competition. SEC Startup gives SEC student-athletes an opportunity to present business concepts to a panel of experienced business professionals — including Stephenson herself — while gaining valuable feedback, exposure and real-world experience. The competition highlights how the leadership, discipline and determination developed through athletics can also drive entrepreneurial success.

“SEC Startup is an exciting example of entrepreneurship in action,” Stephenson said. “I’m honored to represent Regions as we spotlight talented young entrepreneurs building businesses, solving problems and preparing for success beyond the playing field. Their creativity and ambition reinforce why investing in the next generation of business leaders is so important.”

While SEC Startup is one highly visible example, it reflects a broader commitment by Regions to support entrepreneurs wherever they are in their journey — from aspiring founders with a new idea to established companies preparing for their next chapter of growth.

Entrepreneurial confidence starts with financial confidence

Long before anyone can launch a business or pursue entrepreneurship, they need a strong foundation in financial literacy. That’s why Regions invests in helping students, young adults and emerging professionals build the money-management skills to support future success.

Through the bank’s free Next Step® financial education program, students can access practical guidance on budgeting, saving, credit, banking fundamentals and financial planning — all designed to help them make informed decisions during some of life’s most important years.

Regions also works directly with schools, colleges and community organizations to provide financial education experiences that bring real-world decision-making to life. These programs, along with student-focused workshops and seminars, help participants understand spending, budgeting and financial responsibility in an engaging, hands-on environment.

With these efforts, Regions helps build the financial confidence needed to take those first crucial steps toward entrepreneurship, leadership and long-term economic mobility.

Ready to build what’s next?

Are you on the path of business ownership? Whether you are exploring a new concept, preparing to launch a company, or positioning an existing business for expansion, Regions is ready to help.

Connect with a Regions banker to discuss goals, explore financing options and learn how personalized guidance can help bring your plans to life.