Each year, OSDC has the privilege of working alongside lenders, referral partners, and community organizations that are deeply committed to supporting Ohio’s small businesses. Our annual awards are an opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate the partnerships that make this work possible. The 2025 OSDC Award Winners represent excellence in collaboration, innovation, and community impact. From financing transformative projects to creating jobs and strengthening neighborhoods, these partners exemplify the shared mission that drives economic development across our state.

 

Regional Bank Partner of the Year

Park National Bank | Adam Stypula

Park National Bank earned OSDC’s Regional Bank Partner of the Year award after referring the highest number of approved projects this past year. Their consistent collaboration and commitment to helping small businesses access the right financing made a meaningful impact across our portfolio.

Adam Stypula played a key role in this success, including spearheading a complex debt refinance project for Drake Dance Academy. His attention to detail and deep understanding of SBA financing helped ensure a strong outcome for the borrower. We are grateful for Park National Bank’s continued partnership and Adam’s dedication to supporting business growth.

Community Bank Partner of the Year

Heartland Bank | Michael Amerine

Heartland Bank was recognized as Community Bank Partner of the Year for referring the largest approved project to OSDC in 2025. Their team continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to helping local businesses thrive.

Michael Amerine has been a long-standing supporter of OSDC and exemplifies what true partnership looks like. This year, he brought Ohio Glass and Aluminum to OSDC, helping facilitate a project that supports long-term growth and stability. We appreciate Heartland Bank’s trust and Michael’s ongoing collaboration.

Credit Union Partner of the Year

Wright-Patt Credit Union | Andy Hlavac

Wright-Patt Credit Union received Credit Union Partner of the Year for their work on an impactful Ohio Regional 166 project benefiting Abbott Image Solutions. This project helped a rural manufacturer in Highland County create 30 new jobs, strengthening the local economy.

Andy Hlavac worked closely on the project, helping guide it through the process and ensuring a successful outcome for the borrower. Wright-Patt’s commitment to economic development and job creation reflects the values we strive to uphold at OSDC.

Bank Referral Partner of the Year

Fortuna Bank | Michelle Haslinger

Fortuna Bank was named Bank Referral Partner of the Year after quickly becoming an active and engaged OSDC partner. As Ohio’s first majority woman-owned bank, Fortuna has shown a strong commitment to supporting small business growth since opening its doors in December 2024.

Michelle Haslinger has been instrumental in that effort, consistently referring SBA 504 projects and serving as a trusted advocate for borrowers. Her leadership, expertise, and service as an OSDC Board member make her a standout partner.

Non-Bank Referral Partner of the Year

OhioSE | Marisa Vetula and Gloria Blauvelt

OhioSE, a regional office of JobsOhio, earned Non-Bank Referral Partner of the Year for their continued collaboration and strong referral activity throughout 2025. Their work plays a critical role in connecting growing businesses with the resources they need.

Marisa Vetula and Gloria Blauvelt were especially impactful this year, helping identify and refer multiple projects to OSDC. We value OhioSE’s partnership and their shared commitment to advancing economic development across the region.

Board Referral Partner of the Year

Columbus Urban League | Heather Landon

Heather Landon of the Columbus Urban League was recognized as Board Referral Partner of the Year for her outstanding contributions as an OSDC Board member. She consistently goes above and beyond to connect small businesses with financing opportunities.

Heather brings deep expertise, thoughtful insight, and a strong passion for economic equity. Her referrals and advocacy helped OSDC make a tangible impact this year, and we are grateful for her leadership and dedication.

 

Project of the Year

Ohio Regional 166 Project

5B’s Inc | Julie Biles | Sean Johnson, WesBanco

5B’s Inc was honored with the Ohio Regional 166 Project of the Year for a transformative project in Muskingum County. This family-owned business has been operating since 1980 and is both woman-owned and veteran-owned.

The project helped fund a new 170,000-square-foot roof for their facility and supports the creation of 10 new jobs. Sean Johnson of WesBanco played a critical role as the lending partner, helping ensure the project’s success and long-term impact on the local community.

Project of the Year

SBA 504 Project

Lee Martin Development / Liberty Tax Linden | Carla Gwinn | Reggie Pace, Mutual Federal

The SBA 504 Project of the Year award was presented to Lee Martin Development and Liberty Tax Linden for a powerful community-centered project in Franklin County. This woman-owned and minority-owned business provides essential tax services in the Linden neighborhood and beyond.

The SBA 504 loan enabled the purchase of a permanent building, allowing the business to grow, build equity, and remain rooted in the community. Located in a HUBZone, the project supports neighborhood revitalization while preserving local ownership. Reggie Pace of Mutual Federal exemplified community-focused lending and was instrumental in bringing this project to life.

As we look ahead, OSDC remains committed to strengthening these partnerships and continuing the work of expanding access to capital for Ohio’s small businesses. We are grateful for the dedication, expertise, and collaboration of each of our 2025 award winners. Together, we are helping entrepreneurs grow, create jobs, and build stronger communities across the state. Thank you for being part of the work that makes this impact possible.