Skip to main content

Read more about our corporate brand here.

Search
Startup Banking hero

Startup Banking

Business banking for technology and life science/healthcare startups.

Startup banking products and services for founders

Up to 3.56% annual percentage yield on qualifying balances

Up to 3.56% annual percentage yield on qualifying balances

Gain interest income with our Startup Money Market Account. Like a savings account, you can earn up to 3.56% APY on deposits over $1M – to help extend your runway. Certain limitations and restrictions apply.D

Pay no monthly maintenance fee with Essentials Checking

Essentials Checking

Tailored to provide what startups need for growth. Help cut costs and increase cash flow with no monthly maintenance fee with qualifying monthly checking account balances.D

Get checks, ACH received and credit transactions at no charge, and no monthly maintenance fee on Bill Pay Classic or Mobile Deposit.

Special Offer - Earn up to 250,000 reward points

Special Offer - Earn up to 250,000 reward points

Early-stage companies can drive growth with higher credit limits with no personal liability and save time with AI-powered expense management at no extra cost.D

Spend $60K in your first 90 days and earn 90,000 rewards points, plus 160,000 additional bonus points for a total of 250,000 rewards points.D

Accepting payments

Accepting payments

Increase cashflow with our Merchant Services and Payment Solutions. Accept payments for sales, invoices, subscriptions and recurring billing. Manage orders and create an integrated checkout experience on your website or app with flexible APIs. And keep the cash flowing with next-day funding.

Global growth services

Global growth services

Our team is here to support your global growth ambitions with market entry advice and networking across Europe, Latin America, India, MENA, Asia, Isreal, Australia and New Zealand.

Discounted partner offers

Discounted partner offers

Benefit from exclusive partner discounts on software and services. First Citizens Innovation Banking technology, life science/healthcare & global business clients can save on software and services such as workforce collaboration, infrastructure, talents and more.D

First Citizens Digital Banking Laptop and Mobile

Digital banking. Evolved.

Our digital banking platform enables you to:

  • Move money: Issue payments anywhere in the world via bill pay, check or ACH – done in seconds and all from a single screen.
  • Gain insight: Access your company's transactions: real-time, searchable, and all in one place from your simple-to-use dashboard.
  • Bank directly from your ERP: View balances, initiate payments and reconcile accounts all from within compatible ERPS such as NetSuite, Sage Intacct and Microsoft Dynamics.

First Citizens Innovation Banking - the bank for startups

60%

of the companies on the 2025 Forbes Fintech 50 List are clientsD

40%

of the Forbes 2025 AI 50 list are clientsD

Andre Basbaum

Andre Basbaum

President and COO, Resolute Science

“SVB has been an incredible partner, going above and beyond their banking business to support our company as we raise funding.”
Sarah Neill

Sarah Neill

Founder and CEO, Mys Tyler

“SVB isn't just a bank — they're a true partner. Every founder should have SVB in their corner.”
Omoju Miller

Omoju Miller

Founder and CEO, Fimio

"We're proud of our relationship with SVB, because they are more than a typical bank. SVB makes it a point to keep up with our fast-evolving business model."
Robert Petti

Robert Petti

CEO, Prompt Global

"We returned to SVB after a year with another bank. Their excellent team of relationship managers assist whenever me or my clients need anything."
Even Kesten

Evan Kesten

Co-founder, Cabinet

“SVB has been a game changer for our ability to fundraise, plus they've opened doors to top-tier investors that align perfectly with our stage and vision.”

Ready to begin startup banking?

Explore our insights

Access actionable insights and strategic advice to help guide your company's growth.

Blog | Startup Growth
What are the three stages of a startup?

Understand the stages of a startup from early-stage funding through the venture-funded growth stage to late-stage exit. A guide to the startup lifecycle.

Blog | Startup Insights
Stages of venture capital

Understand the stages of venture capital funding, from pre-seed and seed to Series A, B, C and IPO. Learn what investors expect at each VC funding round.

Blog | Startup Insights
Startup incorporation: Choosing the right corporate structure for tech and life sciences

This comprehensive article covers the advantages and disadvantages of various business structures, including C-Corps, LLCs, and S-Corps. Discover why many startups choose to incorporate in Delaware, how to protect your intellectual property and what investors look for in a company's legal structure.

Blog | Startup Insights
How to create an investor pitch deck

Learn how to create a pitch deck for investors. Get expert tips on pitch deck structure for startups, venture capital fundraising, and securing meetings.

FAQs

Does First Citizens Innovation Banking offer resources for startups seeking funding or investment?

Yes. While First Citizens Innovation Banking doesn't directly fund startups, we're deeply committed to helping your startup secure investment. We can connect you with the resources and network you need, focusing on:

Investor connections: Access our extensive network of VCs, angels and other investors. Expand your reach and connect with potential funders.

Fundraising support & events: Refine your pitch deck, navigate the fundraising process and leverage our curated events and webinars to connect with investors. Increase your chances of securing funding and build valuable relationships.

Market insights reports: Access our industry-specific research and trend analysis. Stay informed about market dynamics and make data-driven decisions.

Digital banking for founders: Complement your funding efforts with specialized banking services and capital strategies. Manage finances efficiently and fuel your growth via our award-winning digital banking platform.

A bank should be a true financial partner, adapting to your evolving needs. First Citizens Innovation Banking provides scalable solutions as you grow:

Flexible credit lines: Access the capital you need to seize opportunities. Fund growth and expansion.

Treasury management: Optimize your cash flow and manage finances. Improve financial control and efficiency.

Cash management accounts: Maximize your returns with competitive interest rates on deposits and money market accounts (MMAs). Make your cash work harder for you.

Discounted partner offers: Access deals on partner software and services. Reduce costs and access valuable tools that support your growth.

Yes! A dedicated startup business bank account offers essential tools for managing cash flow:

Automated Bill Pay: Streamline payments and avoid late fees. Save time and reduce administrative hassle.

Integrated expense tracking: Gain clear visibility into your spending. Control expenses and identify areas for savings.

Higher-yield Money Market Accounts: Make your money work harder. Maximize returns on your cash reserves.

Real-time reporting: Monitor your financial health and make informed decisions. Stay on top of your finances and make data-driven decisions. Explore our digital banking platform.

Yes, First Citizens Innovation Banking has deep expertise across diverse industries in the innovation economy, including:

Cleantech & Sustainability

Consumer Internet

Defense Tech & Aerospace

Enterprise Software

Fintech

Hardware & Frontier Tech

Life Science & Healthcare

We understand your industry's unique challenges and opportunities. Explore our recent transactions to see how we've supported companies across these industries.

First Citizens Innovation Banking Startup Banking is a collection of tailored products and services designed for the specific needs of early-stage companies in the innovation economy. Pioneered by First Citizens Innovation Banking over 40 years ago, it goes beyond traditional banking by offering:

  • Tailored financial solutions: Access products and services built for startups. Streamlined finances and efficient operations.
  • Expert guidance: Receive support from advisors who understand your challenges. Make informed decisions and navigate complex situations.
  • Networking opportunities: Connect with investors and other key players in the innovation ecosystem. Access funding and strategic partnerships.
  • Scalable support: Partner with a bank that can grow with your business. Long-term support and adaptable solutions.

Get started with First Citizens Innovation Banking Startup Banking today.

Yes, you can get seamless integration with your company's accounting software to help you save time and effort on tasks that normally require double entry. Sync your payment data with your accounting software in one click with:

  • QuickBooks
  • Xero
  • NetSuite
  • Intacct

2025 Forbes Fintech 50 list and bank analysis as of June 2025.

2025 Forbes AI 50 List and bank analysis as of June 2025.

Money Market Accounts (MMA) are interest-bearing accounts unless otherwise stated. As of September 30, 2026, a 3.56% annual percentage yield (APY) on the Startup Money Market Account ** is available for ** deposit balances of $1,000,000.01 or more.  ** If the Startup Money Market Account ** has deposit balances between $50,000.01 to $1,000,000.00, a 2.63% APY will be applied to the entire ** Startup Money Market Account deposit balance. If the Startup Money Market Account has deposit balances of $50,000.00 or less, a 0.10% APY will be applied to the entire Startup Money Market Account deposit balance. The APY or interest rate depends on the tier associated with the amount deposited in the Startup Money Market Account. You must deposit and maintain the applicable account balance to earn the disclosed APY. Please refer to the Deposit Agreement and Disclosure Statement issued at opening and any updates thereto for more details. Changes to the interest rate and APY on the Startup Money Market Account is at our discretion and are reflected in your account statement. Interest is calculated daily and credited monthly to the account. If you close your account before interest is credited for the month, you will not receive the accrued interest during the month the account is closed. Applicable fees, including those contained in the Product Sheets and Schedule of Fees and Charges provided at account opening, could reduce earnings on the account. Account maintenance fees may apply for each month your balance falls below a disclosed minimum.

Free checking through Essentials Checking available for up to three years from account opening on included services and there after will be subject to an account maintenance fee of $50 per month plus outgoing wire fees, Domestic and International, and Standing/Auto Drawdown/Reverse wire fees. If expanded or additional account and banking services are needed by a company during the first three years, outside of what is included with the Essentials Checking checking account and related services, these will be available only through a checking and banking account solution outside of the Essentials Checking checking account product, and subject to both applicable standard services fees, and a monthly account maintenance fee. Transactions processed, such as for overdrafts, NFS’s, returned and collection items will incur a fee as described in the Schedule of Fees. SVB does not provide a complimentary order of check stock. Eligibility requirements apply for Mobile Deposit.

For complete details about the SVB Innovator Card, including applicable fees and terms and conditions of the Card, please see the SVB Innovator Card Terms and Conditions. All credit products and loans are subject to underwriting, credit, and collateral approval. All information contained herein is for informational and reference purposes only and no guarantee is expressed or implied. Rates, terms, programs and underwriting policies subject to change without notice. This is not a commitment to lend. Certain terms, conditions, exclusions, and limitations apply, including a limit on cash advance capabilities.

This offer is only available for Innovator Card charge programs set up on rewards with company bill and company rewards. Offer expires 12/31/2026.

Rewards points and bonus rewards points are awarded 30 days (or up to 2 statement cycles) after meeting the offer criteria within the first 90 days of account opening. Criteria includes:

  • 45,000 rewards points are awarded after $10,000 has been spent collectively between the cards within your program. When spending $10,000, you will earn 15,000 rewards points at an earn rate of 1.5x. You will receive an additional 30,000 bonus points for a total of 45,000 points.
  • 250,000 rewards points are awarded after $60,000 has been spent collectively between the cards within your program. When spending $60,000, you will earn 90,000 rewards points at an earn rate of 1.5x. You will receive an additional 160,000 bonus points for a total of 250,000 points.

Clients will earn either the $10k spend / 45,000 reward points (30,000 bonus) OR $60k spend / 250,000 rewards points (160,000 bonus).

Terms and conditions apply. Offers subject to change without notice. Provider companies offering discounted tools and services are independent third parties and not affiliated with First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company.

Mastercard is a registered trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated and is an independent third party and not affiliated with First Citizens Bank. The Contactless Symbol and Contactless Indicator are trademarks owned by and used with permission of EMVCo, LLC. EMVCo, LLC is an independent third party and not affiliated with First Citizens Bank.

All third-party trademarks referenced by First Citizens Bank remain the property of their respective owners. First Citizens Bank’s use of third-party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between First Citizens Bank and the owners of these trademarks. All references by First Citizens Bank to third-party trademarks are to identify the corresponding third-party goods and services and intended to constitute nominative fair use under applicable trademark laws.

Banking and lending products or services are offered by First Citizens Bank. Accounts are subject to credit approval. Restrictions and limitations may apply.

Back to top
You are now leaving First Citizens Innovation Banking

You will be directed to a different website or mobile app that has its own terms of use, visitor agreement, security and privacy policies. First Citizens Innovation Banking is not responsible for (and does not provide) any products, services or content at the third party site or app, except for the products and services that carry the First Citizens Innovation Banking name.