These are the 10 best banks for startups, according to founders and VCs

As startups evolve from inception to potential acquisition, the choice of banking partner becomes crucial for founders. To shed light on this matter, Business Insider consulted 15 venture capitalists and entrepreneurs to identify the top banks serving startups in 2025. Many of the respondents chose to remain anonymous to safeguard their banking connections. Founders emphasized the importance of having a banker with industry expertise, particularly for sensitive transactions. Micah Rosenbloom, managing partner at Founder Collective, stated, "Hiring a specialized banker who understands your sector is vital. In many cases, it's less about the bank itself and more about the individual banker." In the wake of the 2023 collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, numerous banks are enhancing their offerings for startups and venture funds. For instance, HSBC and Citizens Bank have recruited former SVB employees to cater to the burgeoning innovation economy. Here are the ten banks that have been highlighted by founders and VCs as top contenders for commercial banking, debt financing, capital raising, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and initial public offerings (IPOs). **Allen & Company** is recognized for its excellence in M&A and fundraising. Known for its discretion, this boutique investment bank has roots dating back to the 1920s. Its focus on maintaining strong industry relationships has made it a favored choice among tech and media investors. While details about specific transactions remain scarce, it has been linked to significant deals such as T-Mobile's acquisitions. **Axom Partners**, a newcomer founded by ex-Qatalyst bankers, is carving out a niche in small- to mid-size sell-side M&A, particularly within the software and AI sectors. The firm has successfully facilitated key transactions, including Eppo's $220 million sale to Datadog. For startups with global operations, **Citi** stands out as a premier partner in international commercial banking. With a presence in nearly 180 countries, Citi streamlines operations for startups by minimizing the need for multiple banking relationships across different regions. **Goldman Sachs**, with its storied history of over 150 years, is a go-to for companies pursuing IPOs and large M&A deals. Its extensive network allows it to connect pre-IPO firms with the right investors effectively. **JPMorgan Chase**, the largest bank globally, excels in handling substantial transactions and IPOs. The bank has recently expanded its services to cater to startups, especially following the collapse of SVB, resulting in a notable increase in its venture-backed clientele. **Mercury**, a fintech platform, has become a preferred choice for startups seeking customizable online banking solutions. Its user-friendly interface and integrations with various fintech tools have made it particularly appealing. **Morgan Stanley** is recognized for its prowess in large M&A and IPO advisory, boasting a stellar tech investment banking team. Its involvement in numerous high-profile tech IPOs this year solidifies its reputation in the sector. **Qatalyst Partners** is renowned for its success in high-value tech acquisitions. Founded by Frank Quattrone, this boutique bank is known for negotiating lucrative deals, successfully advising on significant transactions like the sale of Cognigy. Finally, **Stifel**, which launched its venture banking practice in 2019, has gained traction by focusing on early-stage startups. With an expanded team of experienced bankers, Stifel aims to provide tailored solutions for venture-backed companies. As the landscape of startup banking continues to evolve, these banks are positioning themselves as key allies for entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of growth and funding.