Stronger Together: "We're a great connector. So if we have a business owner that shares with us, they're struggling with their current CPA or maybe they're looking for a new financial advisor. We want to be that connector where it takes the stress and time away from them because we've already put in that work to vet these individuals, these professionals, these companies to say here's who we think you should work with and here's why." - Ashley Dick

In this episode, hosts Brett Johnson and Katie Ellis sit down with Ashley Dick, Chief Retail and Community Development Officer at Fortuna Bank—a groundbreaking, women-owned financial institution in Columbus, Ohio.

Ashley shares Fortuna Bank’s mission-driven approach to banking, designed to close the capital and education gaps faced by women entrepreneurs. From hosting peer-led networking and educational events to launching mentorship programs that empower new business owners, Fortuna Bank is more than just a financial institution—it’s a vibrant community-building hub.

You’ll hear about the vision and determination of founder Lisa Berger, the unique challenges of launching a women-owned bank, and the commitment to making banking approachable, supportive, and tailored to local businesses.

Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with insights on building connections, fostering confidence, and growing with the support of a like-minded community. This is an inspiring conversation about redefining what it means to be a bank, and discovering how Fortuna Bank is helping small businesses—and their owners—thrive.

Key takeaways from the conversation:

• Mission-Driven Banking: Fortuna Bank was intentionally founded by Lisa Berger to address the gap in access to capital and resources for women entrepreneurs. Their focus goes beyond traditional banking—building a supportive community that empowers all business owners.
• Relationship and Education First: While providing the full suite of personal and business banking services, Fortuna differentiates itself with hands-on financial education, client networking, peer-led lecture series, and a soon-to-launch mentorship program.
• A Community Hub, Not Just a Bank: Their space is intentionally designed to be inviting and collaborative, offering local entrepreneurs a home base for meetings and events—and a gateway to invaluable business connections.

05:53 Empowering Community Through Unique Services

07:25 "Connecting Experienced and New Entrepreneurs"

11:26 Business Connector and Advisor Service

16:42 Empowering Business Conversations

19:15 "Fortuna's Mission: Community and Growth"

To run a successful business, you need resources, valuable connections, and community recognition. Business Inspires will provide you with the tools, resources, and examples to inspire you to create the business you envision.

With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

Thank you for downloading, listening, and following Business Inspires, a Tri-Village Chamber Partnership podcast.

This season is presented by:

• City of Upper Arlington.

Katie Ellis, President/CEO, Tri-Village Chamber Partnership

[email protected]

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Mentioned in this episode:

Presented by First Merchants Bank