Anecdotal evidence suggests that private small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) have limited access to bank loans. What factors influence the bank loan availability and loan terms? A growing body of literature on the factors influencing bank financing of SMEs has not yet fully addressed several issues. Firstly, there is a lack of a model that accounts for firm growth stages in accessing bank loans. Secondly, the distinctive impacts of interpersonal and inter-organizational bank relationships have not been addressed. Thirdly, the impact of firm s networks on bank financing is largely overlooked. Finally, there is a lack of empirical tests in transition economies. This book helps narrow this gap in the literature by employing an institutional perspective and argues that a firm s legitimacy positively influences access to bank financing. This book indicates that the effects of inter-personal relationships, networks and management practices on bank financing are contingent on a firm s growth stage. This book provides implications for small business borrowers, bankers, and policy makers in identifying areas that need to be improved to facilitate growth of SMEs.