BRYAN, Texas — It's Small Business Week here in Texas. The government-issued proclamation celebrates the vital role small businesses play in our economy from April 30 to May 6.
Despite the pandemic making life and finances uncertain for many Americans. At Guaranty & Trust Bank in Bryan, Vice President Jared Salvato shared how banks also suffered during this time but became a resource for those who began small businesses.
"During COVID it was just a tough time for everybody I mean everybody was tryna learn, how do we work our way through this?" said Salvato.
Small businesses are the key in building the economy, according to the VP.
"Small businesses are always the backbone of any community," he said. "The bank is truly your partner. We want to see you succeed as much as you wanna succeed yourself."
From offering owners small business checking accounts, to construction loans, to credit lines and fixed assets for equipment if needed—everything to get your small business started can be achieved with Guaranty.
Salvato also explained how talking with community banks gives them a genuine connection to the people in the local community.
"Community banks understand the customer, they understand the business I think a lot better than maybe some of the large banks. I mean we live here, we work here," said Salvato.
In fact, a new National Federation of Independent Business(NFIB) survey reported that 67% of small business owners use small or regional banks like Guaranty to help manage the financial side of business.
"They have to understand that the bank is truly your partner," said Salvato. "We're here to help you whenever we can."
With over 3.1 million small businesses in Texas, and hundreds in the Bryan-College Station area, these are the businesses that make the community.