Centier Bank Receives Lending Awards from the U.S. Small Business Administration's Indiana District Office

^{Peter Smith (left center) presents SBA awards to associates from across Centier Bank's Small Business Banking Team at the Centier Corporate Centre in Merrillville.}

MERRILLVILLE, IND. – Centier Bank was recently presented two awards by the United States Small Business Administration’s Indiana District Office for its lending performance in 2023.

A group of Centier Bank business bankers gathered at the bank’s Corporate Centre in Merrillville to accept the Community Lender Silver Award and the 3rd Party Lender Award from Peter Smith, Lender Relations Specialist at the SBA’s Indiana District Office.

The Indiana District Office of the SBA provides help with SBA services including connecting business owners and entrepreneurs to partner organizations, lenders, and other community groups that help small businesses succeed.

In 2023, the SBA helped Indiana entrepreneurs access of $493 million through the traditional 7(a) and 504 loan programs, and the 504 loan volume delivered 96-fixed rate loans for long-term assets and real estate worth more than $92 million to small businesses. The SBA’s Microloan and Disaster Loan Assistance provided approximately $24.4 million in capital for Indiana small businesses.

“SBA guaranteed loan programs would not be possible without our lending partners,” said U.S. Small Business Administration Indiana District Director Stacey Poynter. “The SBA Indiana District Office is recognizing Centier Bank with two awards for continuing to be a top Indiana community lender in both the 7(a) and 504 signature SBA loan programs by providing Indiana small businesses with critical access to capital to grow their businesses.”

Jerry Tomasic, Business Banking Group Manager, said he was proud that Centier Bank was recognized for its achievements in community lending.

“These awards are a symbol of Centier Bank’s unwavering commitment to being a cornerstone in community lending,” Tomasic said. “We are proud to serve as a steadfast partner in the SBA's mission to empower entrepreneurs, affirming our dedication to small businesses and our passion for guiding clients towards enduring success.”

For more information about SBA-backed loans and small business resources for Indiana entrepreneurs, visit sba.gov/in.