At Siemens Financial Services (SFS), when we talk about sustainability, we're not just discussing environmental stewardship. We're talking about something fundamental to business success: resilience. In fact, I've come to view sustainability and resilience as symbiotic – two expressions of the same strategic imperative.
I previously wrote about how this realization became even clearer as I transitioned from Chief Risk Officer to CEO at Siemens Financial Services (SFS) Americas. In both roles, I've seen this truth play out: organizations that build sustainability into their business decisions aren't just doing the right thing. They're building competitive security that will determine longevity in an increasingly unpredictable economy.
Energy resilience can reduce business risk
Much of what sustainability requires, such as anticipating future disruptions, adapting business models to withstand shocks, and maintaining operational continuity in the face of external pressures, defines resilience. According to a recent survey from the SME Climate Hub, 58 percent of small- and medium-sized (SME) respondents cited increased business resilience as a motivator to reduce emissions. A company that reduces its carbon footprint through energy efficiency isn't just lowering emissions; it's reducing its exposure to volatile energy costs, and regulatory consequences. A manufacturer that invests in on-site solar and battery storage isn't just supporting sustainability targets; it's reducing its exposure to grid failures and securing reliable, predictable power for its operations.
Siemens is now an SBA Small Business Lender
The World Economic Forum cites that there are an estimated 400 million SMEs globally which account for approximately 90 percent of all businesses, 70 percent of employees, and 50 percent of global GDP. As the backbone of American manufacturing, energy, and industrial innovation, SME and small business resilience is key.
Recently, we secured approval as a Small Business Lending Company (SBLC) under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)'s 7(a) loan program. As the first industrial technology company to receive this license, Siemens Small Business Lending, Inc. (SSBL) now stands as one of only 16 approved non-bank SBA lenders nationwide.
Through our 7(a) lending capability, SFS will enable small businesses in manufacturing, energy, healthcare, logistics, and technology to access capital while simultaneously gaining access to Siemens' technology expertise and industry know-how without slowing down operations.
Small businesses have the potential to scale. When a regional manufacturer invests in automation and digitalization, or a local energy company deploys microgrid technology, or a healthcare facility upgrades to energy-efficient systems, a resilient industrial base is created.
For more than a decade, Siemens has supported SMEs in scaling through automation and digitalization. Now, we can provide financing with support from the SBA for America’s SMEs. This enables us to invest in industries that strengthen the domestic supply chain and the country’s economic position.