April 25, 2024
Recognition from the Small Business Administration highlights the bank's dedication to fostering economic growth in rural Colorado.
First Southwest Bank (FSWB) has been named 2024 Rural Lender of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. FSWB is an SBA preferred lender, and was named SBA Community Rural Lender of the Year in 2021 and 2022.
“During National Small Business Week, cities and counties across Colorado will celebrate the spirit of entrepreneurship and the positive impact small business has on helping communities thrive and grow,” said Frances Padilla, SBA’s Colorado District Director. “Colorado has a rich history of small business creation and innovation, and our winners are representative of the supportive business climate that exists in this state.”
FSWB is honored to be acknowledged for its dedication to improving the quality of life in our communities by promoting economic opportunities with loans, deposit products, financial education and other resources that create value for all sectors, to include the distressed and underserved areas in Southern and rural Colorado.
“As a locally-owned community bank and a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), we take pride in responding to and investing in community needs and priorities, empowering entrepreneurs, fueling small businesses, and fostering collaborations and partnerships for the betterment of all,” said Kent Curtis, FSWB CEO & President.
Congratulations to all of the 2024 Colorado lender awardees:
- 2024 7(a) Lender of the Year (Large) – The Huntington National Bank
- 2024 7(a) Lender of the Year (Small) – Midwest Regional Bank
- 2024 504 CDC of the Year (Large) – B:Side Capital, Denver, CO
- 2024 504 CDC of the Year (Small) – Preferred Lending Partners, Denver, CO
- 2024 Rural Lender of the Year – First Southwest Bank, Southwestern CO
- 2024 Community Lender of the Year – Colorado Enterprise Fund, Denver, CO
Award winners will be recognized at the SBA Colorado Small Business Awards Ceremony in Denver on Thursday, May 2. More information about the award winners can be found here.