How to Go Direct to a Sponsor Bank

Every card program needs a great bank partner.

There are two main ways you can solve the need for a bank partner:

1. Work with a program manager. Partner with a card issuing platform that already has bank relationships, and they act as your program manager. The platform makes it simpler for you to run the program by handling the bank relationship and many program obligations on your behalf. 
2. Go direct to a sponsor bank: Partner and integrate directly with a bank, and manage the relationship and your obligations with the bank directly. 

While the first option is a viable path for many, the second may be a better fit for your program’s needs since it typically provides more control.

However, the second option also means you take on more responsibilities, so it’s essential to find a sponsor bank that aligns with your business and is interested in what you have to offer. 

For our latest guide, we spoke to several sponsor banks about the ins and outs of bank partnerships and compiled our findings into a playbook that’s packed with insights. It covers:

1. When to go direct
2. The three types of sponsor banks
3. How to find your best match
4. How to go direct to a sponsor bank
5. Best practices for working with banks

Get the full guide

Download the full guide to learn if going direct is right for you and how you can get started.

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