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.