Building a business can feel like going it alone, but The Bloom Market proves you don’t have to. As a growing hub for local entrepreneurs, The Bloom Market creates opportunities for business owners to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another.

The Bloom Market was founded on the belief that small businesses thrive when they have access to resources, education, and community. Through events and initiatives, they provide a welcoming space where entrepreneurs can share experiences, discover solutions, and build relationships that strengthen their businesses.

 

Maker 101

One of The Bloom Market’s most impactful initiatives is Maker 101, a monthly meet-up designed specifically for small business owners. Hosted at Mayberry Acres, this event blends networking with hands-on learning.

Each month, business owners gather to hear from guest speakers who cover topics that matter most to entrepreneurs, including marketing, financial planning, growth strategies, and overcoming common challenges.

“We thought there was a need where small businesses could gather while also being educated along the way,” The Bloom Market team shared.

 

 

Support Small Business Success

For FINSYNC, sponsoring The Bloom Market and supporting events like Maker 101 is a natural fit. Our mission is to help entrepreneurs succeed by simplifying financial management and improving access to business funding, payroll, and cash flow solutions. 

Partnering with organizations like The Bloom Market allows us to extend that mission and empower entrepreneurs with both education and tools.

 

Learn From Real Business Stories

The Bloom Market also shares valuable insights through its podcast. Each episode showcases real-life stories from local entrepreneurs, their journeys, and the valuable lessons they have learned along the way. It is an excellent resource for anyone seeking inspiration and practical advice from peers in the small business community.

If you are a small business owner seeking connection, education, and inspiration, Maker 101 is the ideal place to start. Whether you are just getting your business off the ground or preparing for your next stage of growth, these monthly gatherings provide practical tips, new perspectives, and a supportive network of fellow entrepreneurs.

 

 

FINSYNC Supports Your Growth

FINSYNC provides small business owners with the tools they need to manage their businesses all within one platform. By partnering with organizations like The Bloom Market, we are proud to help create a stronger, smarter, and more connected small business community.

 

 

About FINSYNC

FINSYNC is transforming how businesses fund and run their operations — all in one place. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to grow, FINSYNC helps you plan, operate, and scale with confidence.

At the core is Fynn, your AI Assistant, guiding you from business planning to funding — bank loans, SBA financing, alternative lending, and investment capital. If you’re not fundable today, Fynn helps you get there.

Backed by a connected Financial Network of banks, credit unions, lenders, investors, and community partners, FINSYNC lowers the cost of capital, reduces admin time by up to 40%, and increases your chances of success.

Execution becomes opportunity, and your business becomes future-ready. That’s the FINSYNC Flywheel.

 

For over 35 years, Shan Ross has been fueling mornings and building community through coffee. As the longtime owner of Central Perk, a drive-through shop in La Pine, Oregon, she’s seen it all. But what she hadn’t found, until recently, was a simple way to manage the paperwork.

 

Juggling Two Businesses, Two States, and Too Much Paperwork

Shan recently scaled back from three locations to one, but the workload didn’t get lighter.. “I live in Arizona now but still manage Central Perk in Oregon,” she explained. “There was so much paperwork. I was constantly behind on QuickBooks, and my accountant was always frustrated with me.”

With multiple bank accounts, frequent debit card purchases by staff, and pages of transactions every day, keeping the books in order became a nightmare. “There’d be six months where I didn’t touch it, and then I’d spend a full month catching up.”

She looked into syncing QuickBooks with her WaFd account but was told it wasn’t possible. That’s when she discovered FINSYNC.

 

Finding FINSYNC: A Better Way Forward

After a quick demo, Shan decided to try the platform.  She started small, then added more tools as she got comfortable.. When she had questions, she reached out.

“They walked me through everything,” she said. “Eventually, I added the accounting tools, which helped my accountant out a lot.”

One of the biggest time-savers was FINSYNC’s automation. “It uploads everything for me. I just go in once a month and make sure everything’s categorized correctly. Before, it used to take me two or three hours to enter one month’s worth of transactions.”

Now, instead of spending weeks hunting down receipts, she can generate a full year’s worth of categorized, balanced reports in a single email. “I sent my accountant the report, and she had my taxes done in a week.”

 

Why Simplicity Matters

Shan had been using QuickBooks for decades, but between outdated software, incompatible systems (she uses a Mac, while her accountant uses Windows), and a lack of support, it was no longer working for her.

“FINSYNC is just a lot more simplistic,” she said. “It’s way less stressful. Everything gets uploaded. I reconcile, categorize, and send the reports. That’s it.”

 

Support That Shows Up

One standout for Shan has been the support team, especially Clark. “I probably annoy him with how many questions I ask, but he always gets back to me. Even when we don’t have time for a call, he’ll help me fix what’s wrong.”

Even when glitches popped up after a WaFd update, the team quickly resolved them.

“Honestly, customer service has been amazing. I never even knew QuickBooks had support, and if they did, they’d charge for it. With FINSYNC, someone actually helps you.”

 

Getting Back to the Work That Matters

With FINSYNC handling the back office, Shan has more time to focus on the business itself. That means keeping customers happy, managing her team, and occasionally catching up on the books after returning from a trip to Oregon.

“I’ve been in coffee for 35 years, and I’m still passionate about it,” she said. “FINSYNC made it possible for me to keep my original location running while semi-retiring. That’s a big deal.”

 

 

About FINSYNC

FINSYNC is transforming how businesses fund and run their operations — all in one place. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to grow, FINSYNC helps you plan, operate, and scale with confidence.

At the core is Fynn, your AI Assistant, guiding you from business planning to funding — bank loans, SBA financing, alternative lending, and investment capital. If you’re not fundable today, Fynn helps you get there.

Backed by a connected Financial Network of banks, credit unions, lenders, investors, and community partners, FINSYNC lowers the cost of capital, reduces admin time by up to 40%, and increases your chances of success.

Execution becomes opportunity, and your business becomes future-ready. That’s the FINSYNC Flywheel.

In the quiet community of Fallon, Nevada, something powerful is taking root. Through a unique partnership among FINSYNC, WaFd Bank, and IDRS (Indian Dispute Resolution Services), a long-time banker with over 30 years of experience in Georgia is helping aspiring entrepreneurs from Native American communities take the first steps toward building their own businesses.

This initiative began with a bootcamp designed not just to teach business fundamentals but to offer accessible guidance, tailored to the needs of early-stage business owners. One of the key facilitators behind this effort was Camille Koster, whose coordination helped bring the program to life. And it was Georgia who stepped in to meet these aspiring business owners face-to-face.

“For me, it was very easy to execute,” Georgia said. “It was just kind of step by step. Camille was awesome in how she communicated, and we had some freedom to market how we chose. I enjoyed it.”

 

Building Trust, Not Just Businesses

Georgia isn’t just there to open accounts. She’s there to listen.

“It was lovely to hear where they’re at in the stage of their businesses,” she said. “These weren’t established businesses yet. They were just sticking their toe in the water, making jewelry or pottery, and selling it to friends.”

Many of the participants were working other jobs and testing the waters of entrepreneurship for the first time. Georgia’s approach was supportive and gentle.

“I’m not pushy,” she explained. “I am at the stage of earning their trust.”

 

From Dream to Direction

Helping First-Time Business Owners Navigate the Basics

With decades of experience in banking and a genuine passion for helping others, Georgia knows how to guide people through the early steps of starting a business. She helps answer practical questions, such as whether they need to register a fictitious name or what type of license is required.

“For example, you can get a fictitious firm name paper for around $15, and it lasts five years,” she said. “That kind of direction takes the mystery out of it.”

She encourages people to reach out, even if they’re not yet ready to open an account. “If you need anything, even if you’re still figuring things out, just reach out. I can help you navigate.”

 

 

More Than a Class

The Real Impact Happens After the Bootcamp Program Ends

For Georgia, the most rewarding part of her work comes after the class ends.

“I really enjoy talking to the participants one-on-one,” she said. “It’s gratifying to be able to help them understand their next steps. Hopefully, that leads to opening an account eventually, but more importantly, it helps them build confidence.”

She noted that everyone she spoke to was still in the early phase of exploring business ownership. Some had small setups at home or shared spaces, while others were simply making goods for friends and family.

“No one treated me like a spam call or a salesperson,” she said. “It was all positive.”

 

Tools That Make Growth Possible

Why FINSYNC and WaFd Bank Are Investing in These Communities

Alongside Georgia’s support, FINSYNC’s tools provide an additional layer of assistance. Georgia compares FINSYNC to QuickBooks, but with more hands-on service.

“QuickBooks used to charge for customer support. With FINSYNC, someone is always there to help you. Their customer service team is based in Atlanta, and they’ll walk you through anything you need, like syncing your bank or creating an invoice,” she said. “I tell people that FINSYNC is like having your own bookkeeper, so you can focus on your craft.”

FINSYNC also helps business owners when they’re ready for funding. While most of the people Georgia meets are not yet ready for traditional loans, FINSYNC provides a path forward.

 

Meeting People Where They Are

A Partnership That Understands the Pace of Progress

Whether someone is working out of their garage or selling jewelry at local events, Georgia meets them where they are. Each conversation is tailored to the individual’s goals and comfort level.

“I see a lot of people in the community who just have a dream. They’re hard workers, and sometimes they just need someone to help them pause and ask, Is this going to make money? Can it replace my day job?” she said.

For Camille and the team supporting this effort, Georgia has become more than a banker. She’s a trusted advisor and mentor who helps tribal entrepreneurs understand what’s possible and how to move forward.

And while the bootcamp may have started small, its reach is growing steadily through every relationship Georgia builds.

 

 

About FINSYNC

FINSYNC is transforming how businesses fund and run their operations — all in one place. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to grow, FINSYNC helps you plan, operate, and scale with confidence.

At the core is Fynn, your AI Assistant, guiding you from business planning to funding — bank loans, SBA financing, alternative lending, and investment capital. If you’re not fundable today, Fynn helps you get there.

Backed by a connected Financial Network of banks, credit unions, lenders, investors, and community partners, FINSYNC lowers the cost of capital, reduces admin time by up to 40%, and increases your chances of success.

Execution becomes opportunity, and your business becomes future-ready. That’s the FINSYNC Flywheel.

Nick Beyer didn’t set out with a grand plan to start a business. He was excelling in corporate sales and had established a strong career. But something kept tugging at him. He wanted to create a business that felt closer to home and more rooted in his community. That desire eventually led him to launch Neat Commercial Cleaning, a janitorial service based in Northwest Arkansas.

“I loved my time in the corporate world,” Nick said. “But I wanted to do something more local. Something that served people where I live.”

That simple idea turned into something real. Neat Commercial Cleaning has been operating for over a year, serving commercial properties throughout Northwest Arkansas. The region is experiencing rapid growth, fueled in part by major institutions like Walmart’s headquarters in Bentonville and the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. Such expansion means more businesses, more buildings, and a growing demand for reliable commercial cleaning services. Nick saw the opportunity and stepped in to meet it.

 

Behind the Cleaning Business

Neat is strictly a business-to-business company. The team works after hours, cleaning offices and workspaces, emptying trash, restocking supplies, and making sure each location is ready for the next workday.

“Janitorial work is really our specialty,” Nick said. “The work itself is straightforward, but building a team that shows up and takes pride in the job is the hard part.”

That’s where the business gets personal. Staffing is often the biggest challenge, but for Nick, it’s also the most meaningful.

“I’ve hired people who are paying off debt, trying to catch up on bills, or just looking to earn a little extra,” he said. “Most of our staff already work full-time jobs and come in at night for a second shift.”

The team is a mix of people from all different walks of life. For many of them, this work makes a real difference.

“It feels good to know we’re helping people stay afloat or reach a goal,” Nick said. “That’s what makes this all worth it.”

 

Finding the Right Financial Tools

When Nick started the business, he leaned on the relationships he had built over time. One of those was with his longtime bank, Generations Bank.

“They’re great people. I’ve known them most of my life,” he said. “When I was getting the business off the ground, they recommended I look into FINSYNC.”

Nick had already been researching tools like QuickBooks and Xero. But FINSYNC stood out.

“What really caught my attention was the customer support,” Nick said. “I had a demo call with someone in Georgia. Not a robot. Just a real person I could talk to.”

That kind of support matters when you’re running a business.

“I wanted to understand the numbers myself before handing anything off to a CPA,” he said. “FINSYNC gave me the confidence to do that. If something wasn’t clear, I could pick up the phone and talk to someone who actually understood what I needed.”

That personal connection helped Nick stay on top of his finances and gave him peace of mind as the business started to grow.

 

Advice for New Entrepreneurs

When asked what advice he’d give to someone thinking about starting a business, Nick didn’t hesitate.

“Just start,” he said. “It doesn’t have to be perfect. You don’t need a brand-new idea. You just need to take the first step.”

Nick and his business partner also host a local podcast where they interview entrepreneurs who have scaled their businesses. The biggest pattern they have observed is that most of those people did not wait until everything was in place. They took action, figured things out as they went, and learned from real experience.

“You’re going to learn more by doing than you ever will by researching,” Nick said. “Experience is the best teacher.”

For Nick, starting Neat Commercial Cleaning wasn’t just about building something for himself. It was about creating jobs, serving the community, and investing in something meaningful. With support from his local bank and easy-to-use tools from FINSYNC, he was able to stay focused on what mattered most.

“You don’t have to figure it all out on your own,” he said. “But you do have to begin.”

 

 

About FINSYNC

FINSYNC is transforming how businesses fund and run their operations — all in one place. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to grow, FINSYNC helps you plan, operate, and scale with confidence.

At the core is Fynn, your AI Assistant, guiding you from business planning to funding — bank loans, SBA financing, alternative lending, and investment capital. If you’re not fundable today, Fynn helps you get there.

Backed by a connected Financial Network of banks, credit unions, lenders, investors, and community partners, FINSYNC lowers the cost of capital, reduces admin time by up to 40%, and increases your chances of success.

Execution becomes opportunity and your business becomes future ready. That’s the FINSYNC Flywheel.

Southwest Virginia’s hills are home to UVA Wise, where classrooms meet community and ideas grow far beyond campus borders. Thanks to its work with FINSYNC CO.STARTERS, UVA Wise is helping to shape a new kind of entrepreneurship in central Appalachia. The approach is rooted in community and focused on long-term impact.

At the heart of this effort is Blake Salyer, Innovation and Ecosystem Manager for the UVA Wise Office of Economic and Community Development. Salyer and his team are working to expand economic opportunity in a region long shaped by coal. While their office continues to support traditional strategies, such as business recruitment, they are also focusing on a locally driven approach that helps residents start and grow their own businesses.

The goal is to meet real community needs with tools that work. “People in our community are starting businesses not just for themselves,” Salyer said. “They’re doing it because they want to see this region thrive.”

 

 

Why UVA Wise Chose FINSYNC’s CO.STARTERS Program

That mission led UVA Wise to adopt the FINSYNC CO.STARTERS curriculum, a structured, peer-driven program that helps people turn ideas into action. 

Salyer and his team put real thought into the choice. They consistently received positive feedback about the program’s clear structure, visual layout, and practical approach.

“CO.STARTERS doesn’t just tell you what to do; it gives you a way to actually do it,” he said. “For our participants, many of whom are brand new to the world of business, that’s essential.”

The curriculum pairs naturally with FINSYNC’s financial and planning tools, which continue to support small business owners long after the sessions conclude. While the CO.STARTERS program helps participants move from idea to action, the broader FINSYNC platform supports their long-term success by simplifying cash flow, managing finances, and connecting them to funding opportunities.

 

Building Peer-Led Momentum

One of the standout elements of the most recent cohort at UVA Wise was its hybrid format. While virtual sessions can sometimes dampen engagement, Salyer reported the opposite: strong participation and a genuine peer-led experience.

“We wanted to create a space where people learned from each other, not just from the facilitator,” he explained. “That peer dynamic is where a lot of the magic happens.”

That dynamic was compelling in a surprising place: the wellness sector. In this cohort, several massage therapists joined the program not to compete, but to support each other. Rather than jockeying for market share, they shared ideas, referrals, and encouragement.

“Watching them work together was incredible,” said Salyer. “It was a real reminder that entrepreneurship, when done right, can be collaborative instead of cutthroat.”

 

 

New Beginnings

Other cohort stories show just how far-reaching this work goes. Federal funding cuts resulted in one participant losing his job. He responded by launching a land management company to serve regional property owners. Another newcomer to the region started a fresh juice beverage business, which became a welcome addition to the local food scene.

“These are people who didn’t necessarily set out to be business owners,” said Salyer. “They were responding to circumstances and saw a gap they could fill. What we’re trying to do is meet them right there, at the intersection of passion, need, and possibility.”

In Appalachia, where economic transition has often felt out of reach, these stories are proof of something different: innovation can be homegrown.

 

Stronger Financial Foundations

Understanding that many first-time founders struggle most with the numbers side of running a business, UVA Wise is exploring ways to integrate FINSYNC’s new financial toolkit. This three-hour plugin session breaks down complex topics, such as profit and loss statements and charts of accounts, in a way that’s practical and accessible.

FINSYNC developed the toolkit in response to widespread confusion around financial tracking, compliance, and funding readiness. Jeanette Brewster, who leads partnerships at FINSYNC CO.STARTERS, said the goal is to help entrepreneurs build confidence not just with their ideas, but with their books.

“It’s hard to get funding when your records aren’t in order,” she said. “This toolkit gives people a stronger foundation, and that makes everything else, like connecting to banks or CDFIs, more achievable.”

Salyer agreed, adding that there’s interest from local institutions like People Inc. and several regional banks to support sessions like these or even co-sponsor future cohorts.

“There’s a shared understanding in our community that this kind of work matters,” he said. “And we’ve found real alignment with partners who want to be part of the solution.”

 

Momentum in Motion

As UVA Wise continues to expand its entrepreneurial programs, FINSYNC will remain a vital component of the equation, not just through tools and training, but through its commitment to evolving alongside the communities it serves.

From rural landowners to wellness professionals to transplant founders just finding their footing, the people behind these small businesses are proving that economic development doesn’t have to come from the outside. It can grow from within.

With partners like FINSYNC CO.STARTERS walking alongside them, this movement is gaining traction. In places like central Appalachia, that steady progress is beginning to reshape what is possible. That’s momentum in motion.

 

 

Fynn Moves Your Business Forward Faster 

Meet Fynn, your AI assistant, built to simplify business planning, funding, operations, and growth. With a fully connected Business Platform and Financial Network, Fynn helps you turn ideas into action, secure funding, streamline operations, and accelerate success.

From business planning to seamless execution and smarter financial connections, Fynn keeps everything and everyone in sync—so you can focus on what truly matters, in business and in life. 

At a time when small business owners face conflicting advice, outdated information, and an overwhelming number of options, real support still comes down to one thing: education. 

The most effective SBA lenders are not just there to process paperwork; they are also committed to providing personalized support. They guide, teach, and advocate for entrepreneurs who often need more clarity than capital. This shared approach connects Mitchell Jones, Joel Krominga, and Scott Bossom, three standout lenders in the FINSYNC network.

Although they represent different banks, all three prioritize education as their top priority. By doing so, they build trust, close smarter deals, and help businesses grow with greater confidence.

 

 

Making Lending Easier to Understand

Mitchell Jones, an SBA lender with UMWSB, focuses on simplifying the lending experience. Early in his career, he used the phrase “Welcome to easy” with clients, reflecting his belief that lending should not feel overwhelming.

SBA lending can be complex, but Mitchell believes the confusion often comes from poor communication. “Many borrowers misunderstand the process,” he says. “They think a personal paycheck equals affordability when it’s really about business revenue.” He emphasizes education from the start by explaining loan structures, limits, and expectations in plain terms.

Mitchell regularly partners with the SBDC to support business owners, utilizing his background as a buyer, seller, and business owner to connect with clients on a personal level. His approach replaces pressure with partnership.

 

Guiding with Empathy and Perspective

Joel Krominga, also with UMWSB, brings a similar mindset to his work. He describes himself as an empath who tries to see every decision through the eyes of the entrepreneur. Education, to him, is a means to reduce stress and help business owners make informed decisions.

Joel understands that many entrepreneurs are experts in their field but may struggle with financial documentation. “It’s not negligence. Most are just busy running their business,” he explains. 

That is why he and his team take a hands-on approach to guiding borrowers through the process, from organizing documents to clarifying the next steps.

He stresses that not all SBA lenders operate with the same values. “One bad experience can damage someone’s perception of the entire SBA program,” Joel says. “It’s our job to help fix that by being clear, responsive, and honest.”

One of Joel’s proudest moments came during the early days of the pandemic when his team worked around the clock to distribute PPP loans. He recalls it as intense but deeply rewarding. “We saw the impact in real-time. That period reminded me why I do this work.”

 

Counseling Over Selling

Scott Bossom, SBA Program Manager at WaFd Bank, takes a thoughtful, educational approach to lending that centers on bankers building trust. He refers to himself as an “SBA psychologist” because he helps bankers learn how to support clients and sort through the noise to focus on what matters.

“There is a lot of misinformation out there,” Scott says. “Many entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed before they even start.” He believes in training WaFd bankers to help people slow down, clarify their options, and take meaningful action. That clarity builds trust and often helps clients take steps they once thought impossible.

Scott helps WaFd bankers support customers even when they do not qualify for traditional bank SBA financing. Currently, this process involves making calls and referrals across various departments. He looks forward to using tools like FINSYNC’s Funding Navigator to automate this step and connect business owners with the right lending alternatives.

“If a customer walks in and we can’t help directly, I still want them to leave with a solution,” he says. “A system that supports that makes the whole process better for everyone.”

Some of Scott’s most fulfilling experiences have been helping longtime employees purchase the businesses they have worked at for years. Many of these individuals never saw themselves as future owners, especially given the need to come up with sizable down payments. Scott worked closely with them to structure financing creatively and make those deals possible. “Helping people step into ownership and keep those businesses alive — that’s the part I love most,” he says.

 

A Shared Commitment to Better Lending

Despite working in different places and serving different communities, Mitchell, Joel, and Scott share a belief that sets them apart. They prioritize education over sales and view lending as a form of service. 

They take the time to explain the details, guide business owners through uncertainty, and refer them to the right place when needed. This mindset is why FINSYNC chooses to work with lenders like them.

By focusing on education, these lenders are building more than just loan portfolios; they are building trust, strengthening communities, and giving business owners the confidence to move forward. 

 

 

Fynn Moves Your Business Forward Faster 

Meet Fynn, your AI assistant, built to simplify business planning, funding, operations, and growth. With a fully connected Business Platform and Financial Network, Fynn helps you turn ideas into action, secure funding, streamline operations, and accelerate success.

From business planning to seamless execution and smarter financial connections, Fynn keeps everything and everyone in sync—so you can focus on what truly matters, in business and in life. 

For many entrepreneurs, the hardest part isn’t deciding to start a business; it involves determining which idea is worth building.

Mackenzie Brown knows this all too well. In a recent interview, she shared how the FINSYNC program, hosted in partnership with the South Coast Development Council (SCDC), helped her shape one of her most meaningful ideas into a business.

Today, she is in the early stages of launching Skipper Feed, a company with a mission to transform low-value seafood byproducts, such as fish skins and bones, into nutritious animal feed and pet treats. It’s a business built on sustainability, community, and a deep respect for the ocean. And it may not have happened without the CO.STARTERS program, supported by SCDC and FINSYNC.

 

Finding Focus in a Sea of Ideas

Mackenzie’s path was not straightforward. Before Skipper Feed, she had tried a few different business concepts, including cooking classes, school garden programs, and local food events. She cared deeply about food systems, but the return on effort was not promising.

“I realized some of my early ideas were more effort than reward,” she said. “FINSYNC helped me sort through what was viable.”

That clarity became a turning point. The program, hosted by SCDC, gave Mackenzie a space to evaluate ideas honestly. It also helped her understand costs, margins, and how to communicate her value proposition in practical terms.

“The program helped me understand how to take an idea and make it real. I used to think I’d need a nonprofit to do something good. But FINSYNC showed me I could build a business model around impact.”

 

A Sustainable Dream

Skipper Feed did not begin as a business plan. It started with Mackenzie’s dog.

“My dog had itchy and dry skin,” she said. “Omega-3s from skins helped a lot. That got me thinking about what happens to the rest of the fish that isn’t sold?”

With a background in environmental studies and a strong interest in the blue economy, Mackenzie was aware that the fishing industry generated a significant amount of waste. In her region, fish heads, bones, and skins are often discarded or sold for pennies. Seeing an opportunity where others saw trash, she began developing a process to turn those byproducts into nutritious treats and food toppers.

“There’s value in what’s being thrown away,” she said. “We just need better systems to capture and use it.”

 

 

FINSYNC as a Compass

Mackenzie credits FINSYNC’s CO.STARTERS curriculum and the community surrounding it for providing her with the structure and confidence to move forward.

“The book is still on my desk,” she said. “It’s one of the clearest tools I’ve used. I refer to it all the time.”

She appreciated how the course made entrepreneurship feel accessible and approachable. For someone who had always considered herself more of an idea person, CO.STARTERS proved that those ideas could become something real with the right planning and support.

 

Barriers and Breakthroughs

Working within the fishing industry hasn’t been easy. The system offers little room for experimentation due to its slim profit margins and complicated politics, which hinder its progress. Mackenzie has built trust with fishermen and navigated slow-moving processes around waste use.

Still, she’s optimistic. She points to groups like Sea Coast Compost, which are using shells in soil products, as signs that things are changing. She is also engaged in broader industry efforts, including the 100% Fish House Bill and the formation of the Oregon Ocean Cluster, initiatives aimed at reducing fish waste and creating new economic opportunities through full utilization of seafood byproducts.

“There’s a growing interest in sustainability and circular systems,” she said. “People are starting to see value in the full catch.”

 

The Power of Partnership

The success of Skipper Feed is not just Mackenzie’s story. It is also a result of what happens when the right partners come together to support local entrepreneurs.

Through the combined efforts of SCDC and FINSYNC’s tools, like the AI Canvas and business plan generator, Mackenzie had access to training, guidance, and practical resources that made a difference.

She’s not alone. Across the country, FINSYNC programs are helping people in rural, Native, and underserved communities turn their ideas into action. And for Mackenzie, that action is just beginning.

“Skipper Feed wouldn’t exist without FINSYNC, the CO.STARTERS program, and the local support I received,” she said. “It gave me the confidence to go from idea to execution and the belief that I can do this.”

 

 

Fynn Moves Your Business Forward Faster 

Meet Fynn, your AI assistant, built to simplify business planning, funding, operations, and growth. With a fully connected Business Platform and Financial Network, Fynn helps you turn ideas into action, secure funding, streamline operations, and accelerate success.

From business planning to seamless execution and smarter financial connections, Fynn keeps everything and everyone in sync—so you can focus on what truly matters, in business and in life. 

Business ownership has long been part of life in tribal communities across the country. However, the systems that support Native entrepreneurs have not always been in place. For over 30 years, Indian Dispute Resolution Services (IDRS) has focused on promoting tribal sovereignty, community development, and self-sufficiency.

What began as a dispute resolution organization has grown into a vital source of entrepreneurship training. Their newest chapter features a promising partnership with FINSYNC and WaFd Bank, enabling Native American entrepreneurs to access the tools, knowledge, and financial services they need to build sustainable businesses.

This story centers on rebuilding trust, aligning economic development with local cultural values, and creating programs tailored to each community’s unique reality. It demonstrates a clear understanding of the challenges faced by tribal communities.

 

From Advocacy to Entrepreneurship

IDRS began by helping tribes navigate complex legal disputes, including negotiations over land and water rights with the federal government. As those needs changed, IDRS shifted its focus to economic development at the individual level.

Camille Koster, who leads IDRS’s entrepreneurship programs, has been a key voice in that evolution. “Helping people gain legal footing was important,” she explained. “But we also saw that real, lasting change comes when people have a path to support themselves and their families.”

That realization led IDRS to entrepreneurship. About 15 years ago, the organization began offering business training programs tailored for Native entrepreneurs and communities. Some tribes were starting to receive government funds and wanted to reinvest in their members. Others sought ways to create opportunities that aligned with traditional values and local resources.

 

Partnerships That Fill the Gaps

To support this vision, IDRS partnered with platforms such as Etsy and Airbnb, enabling participants to sell their goods and services online. Collaborating with GoDaddy enabled the team to offer free website development, making it easier for entrepreneurs to reach a wider audience.

But many of these new businesses lacked access to reliable banking or financial literacy support. That’s where the partnership with FINSYNC and WaFd Bank became essential.

“We saw a real need to help people not just start businesses, but manage them in a sustainable way,” Camille said. “That means knowing how to handle money, use banking tools, and track your business performance.”

The program combines practical financial education with digital tools from FINSYNC, including an AI-powered interface designed to help users manage cash flow, set financial goals, and prepare for growth. It also helps build confidence in banking systems, which have often been met with mistrust in Native communities.

“We can’t just hand someone a tool and expect it to work,” Camille said. “We need to walk with them through the process and show that it’s something that can actually help.”

 

 

Training That Fits Real Life

IDRS adopted the FINSYNC Bootcamp program to replace outdated materials with a more flexible, peer-driven approach. The boot camp model teaches practical skills, including identifying a target market, calculating break-even points, and managing costs. These tools help participants make informed decisions about starting, growing, or adjusting their businesses.

Traditional programs often required internet access or used examples that didn’t reflect rural life. One participant realized she was underpricing her handmade goods and quickly adjusted. Another restructured his mobile repair business to reduce travel and increase profits.

“These programs help people take control,” Camille said. “They realize they don’t need to rely on outside jobs or wait for permission to succeed.”

 

Trust Comes First

IDRS only launches a program after building a local partnership, whether with a tribal council member, community center, or another trusted contact. These relationships ensure the training is both practical and respectful.

“There’s a long history of programs coming in and not following through,” Camille said. “We have to earn that trust, and we do that by showing up consistently and listening.”

That respect also guides how IDRS shares participant stories. Some individuals want to share their progress publicly, while others prefer to maintain their privacy. Each story is told with the consent and cultural awareness of the individuals involved.

 

A Strong Start in Fallon

IDRS, FINSYNC, and WaFd launched their first joint program in Fallon, Nevada. Participants received business training, financial tools, and support from WaFd Bank. WaFd’s Fallon branch, led by longtime banker Georgia Harvey, played a central role in the launch. Harvey introduced the program in person and offered one-on-one banking consultations to participants. It helped begin rebuilding trust in financial institutions, a challenge that many Native communities have faced for generations.  WaFd also provided giveaways during the in-person session and graduation gifts for those who completed both sessions.

Fallon was chosen as the starting point because the tribal community is located within the town itself rather than being separated by distance. The location made it easier to build relationships and test a collaborative model. Early results are promising, and the team is already planning the next round.

“We’re not trying to be everything to everyone,” Camille said. “We’re focused on the places where we can make the biggest difference.”

 

Building a Better Path Forward

Camille Koster is helping lead a partnership that goes beyond tools and training. Through her work with IDRS, alongside FINSYNC and WaFd Bank, she’s helping rebuild trust where it has been broken. This will open doors for Native entrepreneurs and support businesses that stay rooted in culture, values, and community priorities.

By combining education, tools, and deep community relationships, this work is helping to reshape what economic development looks like in Indian Country.

 

 

Fynn Moves Your Business Forward Faster 

Meet Fynn, your AI assistant, built to simplify business planning, funding, operations, and growth. With a fully connected Business Platform and Financial Network, Fynn helps you turn ideas into action, secure funding, streamline operations, and accelerate success.

From business planning to seamless execution and smarter financial connections, Fynn keeps everything and everyone in sync—so you can focus on what truly matters, in business and in life. 

In the rolling hills and rugged coastlines of Oregon, small towns often echo with creativity, grit, and untapped potential. But for many entrepreneurs in these areas, good ideas alone are not enough. The lack of mentorship, funding, and infrastructure creates barriers that too often turn dreams into dead ends. That’s where the story of the Foundry Collective begins. Through its Reinventing Rural initiative, in partnership with WaFd Bank and FINSYNC, the organization is helping bring new life to rural communities across the state.

The work happening in Oregon’s rural communities goes far beyond business growth. It builds local capacity, shifts mindsets, and demonstrates that innovation can thrive anywhere, not just in urban areas.

 

The Beginning of Reinventing Rural

The Foundry Collective is a nonprofit dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and small business ecosystems in underserved communities across Oregon. One of its core areas of focus is Reinventing Rural, a program created to address the specific challenges of rural business development.

Brad Attig, CEO of the Foundry Collective, helped shape the direction of Reinventing Rural after years of working with Hatch Innovation, a Portland-based nonprofit focused on social entrepreneurship. When Hatch launched Hatchlab Baker to support rural entrepreneurship, it became clear that rural areas needed a more tailored approach. As the pandemic shifted priorities, Brad launched Foundry Collective to continue and expand that work, turning Reinventing Rural into a full initiative with statewide reach.

The mission was clear: close the rural resource gap by offering technical assistance, mentorship, and access to capital in communities often overlooked by traditional economic development programs.

 

 

A Need for More Than Good Ideas

Rural entrepreneurs face a specific and stubborn set of challenges. “Lack of demand, lack of infrastructure, and isolation,” Brad explains. “It’s not that rural people aren’t innovative. It’s that the systems haven’t caught up to support that innovation.”

One of the biggest needs is access to a solid foundation: business education, mentorship, and tools. That is where the FINSYNC programs came in, thanks to Brad’s collaboration with Jose Alfaro. Misty Lambrecht, a business coach at Foundry Collective, helped bring the program to Oregon’s coast, making it more accessible to communities far from the usual support hubs. Soon, rural towns from La Grande to Baker City were seeing new energy and opportunity.

Still, for many of these businesses, a program alone was not enough. They needed the infrastructure to move from idea to income.

 

Power of Partnership: WaFd Bank Steps In

The real turning point came when WaFd Bank entered the picture. What started as an idea to host programs in bank branches evolved into a sponsorship model with even greater impact in the communities it was meant to serve. WaFd began funding local delivery partners such as Sisters Makers and EDCO so the cohorts could run independently with real financial backing and business banking support.

The impact was immediate. “Thanks to WaFd’s support, we nearly doubled the number of entrepreneurs we could reach in Oregon,” Brad says. The sponsorship helped cover the cost of materials, allowing participants to focus on building their businesses instead of worrying about fees.

WaFd’s involvement also provided entrepreneurs with free business checking accounts, a crucial yet simple step in legitimizing a business. With these accounts, startups began laying a more formal foundation and connecting with bankers earlier in their journey.

As Brad puts it, “It’s not just about the money. It’s about relationship-building and creating a sense of legitimacy for these rural entrepreneurs.”

 

 

Building for the Long Haul

Sustainable impact is not just about one-time support. That is why Foundry Collective takes a long-term view. Their model includes developing local facilitators who can eventually lead future cohorts. “We want graduates to become mentors,” Brad says. “That way, the support stays rooted in the community.”

This approach is already taking hold. Misty notes that there have been 11 cohorts with direct WaFd connections. The organization is also collecting data on demographics, business types, and outcomes to help tell the story of what is working and where support is still needed.

Hannah Johnson, who leads marketing and storytelling at Foundry Collective, has been instrumental in sharing these stories through podcasts and Substack posts. These real-life profiles highlight not just the businesses but the people and purpose behind them. The stories resonate far beyond Oregon, showing what is possible when communities invest in themselves and when organizations like FINSYNC help amplify those efforts.

 

Believing in Rural Potential

This story is about believing in people who are often overlooked by traditional programs. It is about meeting them, listening, and helping them build businesses rooted in their values and communities.

When asked what keeps them going, the team at Foundry Collective does not hesitate. “We’ve seen firsthand what can happen when someone finally gets the support they need,” Brad says. “That spark of belief changes everything.”

With continued collaboration, storytelling, and investment, that spark is catching fire across Oregon.

And the best part? This is just the beginning.

 

 

Fynn Moves Your Business Forward Faster 

Meet Fynn, your AI assistant, built to simplify business planning, funding, operations, and growth. With a fully connected Business Platform and Financial Network, Fynn helps you turn ideas into action, secure funding, streamline operations, and accelerate success.

From business planning to seamless execution and smarter financial connections, Fynn keeps everything and everyone in sync—so you can focus on what truly matters, in business and in life. 

We believe every community grows stronger when local entrepreneurs are set up to succeed. Great Bend Economic Development is leading the way by using its CO.STARTERS program, powered by FINSYNC, to help business owners move from idea to action with confidence.

By combining local leadership with FINSYNC’s tools, training, and financial connections, Great Bend is doing more than launching businesses. It is building long-term momentum for the entire community. The success of its most recent entrepreneur cohort shows what is possible when people come together with the right support.

 

Real People, Real Progress

This spring’s group brought together passionate entrepreneurs, each with their vision and a drive to turn it into something real. You could feel the energy growing from the first class to Celebration Night. Facilitators Jeremy and Regan helped guide the group with care, focus, and a strong understanding of how to move from idea to action. Their decision to return for the fall session speaks volumes about the value they bring.

 

 

Melissa’s Story: A Second Act in Business

Melissa Prosser, owner of Etched at 670, had worked with her husband on a business in the 1990s. With her children grown, she felt ready to start something of her own. The CO.STARTERS program gave her the tools and confidence to take her etching business seriously. She shared how different starting a business feels today compared to 30 years ago and how encouraged she felt by the experience.

 

Christina’s Story: From Home Kitchen to Local Favorite

Christina entered the program as a home baker with a dream. Throughout the sessions, she gained the clarity and courage to take a big step forward. She had open and honest conversations with her peers and facilitators about transitioning from a side hustle to a real business. That support and her growing confidence helped her partner with Mitchell’s Bakery. She bakes out of their kitchen, giving her more space to grow her offerings and maintain a healthier work-life balance.

 

Looking Ahead

Great Bend Economic Development continues to strengthen the local business community by supporting entrepreneurs through the CO.STARTERS program. Each new cohort brings more momentum, and the next session is already scheduled for September 3 to November 5, 2025.

FINSYNC is proud to support this work and help provide the tools and structure that make programs like this successful. We believe in the power of local partnerships and are honored to contribute to the growth of small businesses in Great Bend.

 

 

Fynn Moves Your Business Forward Faster 

Meet Fynn, your AI assistant, built to simplify business planning, funding, operations, and growth. With a fully connected Business Platform and Financial Network, Fynn helps you turn ideas into action, secure funding, streamline operations, and accelerate success.

From business planning to seamless execution and smarter financial connections, Fynn keeps everything and everyone in sync—so you can focus on what truly matters, in business and in life.