Bell Bank announces the launch of Bell Business Credit, a national specialty lending team providing asset-based lending and factoring services ideally suited for working capital intensive companies that generate $2 million to $120 million in annual revenue. 

Led by industry veterans Kei Lehigh, who serves as president, and Matt Howe, director of credit and operations, Bell Business Credit further expands Bell Bank’s commercial finance and specialty lending areas. Lehigh and Howe bring to Bell more than 50 years of combined commercial lending experience in this niche. 

At the 2004 Athens Olympics, American air-rifle shooter Matt Emmons, the reigning world champion in the 50-meter three-position event, held a seemingly insurmountable lead.  Going into his final shot, Emmons was in first place and needed only a mediocre score to win gold.  Emmons aimed, fired, and hit his target – the wrong target, one lane over.  He received no score for that shot and finished in eighth place.  

Emmons’ mistake illustrates the importance of aiming at the right target.  In April of 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Federal Reserve and the Treasury Department announced the Main Street Loan Program (the “MSLP”), which was designed to provide emergency liquidity to small and mid-sized businesses.  Although well-intentioned, the MSLP, like Emmons, was aimed at the wrong target, and ultimately missed the mark.