PASCO COUNTY – The Pasco Economic Development Council announced that Bank OZK has donated $4,000 to the SMARTstart Microloan Program and became a Partner Investor in the organization.
The microloan program gives entrepreneurs the funds they need to start or grow their business.
“At Bank OZK, we believe small businesses deserve more than capital. They deserve partners,” said Ehren McGeehan, senior vice president and business banking sales manager. “We’re committed to helping entrepreneurs by delivering flexible capital, trusted expertise and long-term partnerships so they grow sustainably and build lasting impact in their communities. We are so pleased that our donation to Pasco EDC will support technical assistance to small businesses as well as their microloan program.”
The microloan program helps entrepreneurs and small businesses in Pasco County diversify the economy and create opportunities for growth. The program has supported more than 85 businesses resulting in over 295 direct jobs, according to Pasco EDC.
“We are very grateful for Bank OZK’s support and their recent generous donation to the microloan program,” Pasco EDC President/CEO Bill Cronin said. “The SMARTstart Microloan Program is an important resource for our community’s entrepreneurs as they establish and build a strong business foundation and continue to grow for years to come.”
Shaila Velazquez, owner of Pampano Coffee, is a recent microloan program recipient who is in the process of opening her brick-and-mortar facility in Zephyrhills.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Pasco EDC microloan program. This funding will allow us to purchase the equipment and furnishings needed to open our doors,” Velazquez said. “It was the missing piece of our funding mix that will help turn our vision into reality.”
Want to learn more?
To qualify for a microloan, businesses must be headquartered in Pasco County. Funds can be used for purchasing inventory and machinery, working capital, supplies and more. Visit smartstartpasco.com/microloan or email Dan Mitchell at if your business is interested in learning more or making a donation to the microloan program.
