Centier Bank Supports Local Entrepreneurs through Freedom Recovery Fund during Small Business Week

Partnership with Project Neighbors advances equity and fuels small businesses in Porter County

In recognition of National Small Business Week, Centier Bank is highlighting the company’s partnership with Project Neighbors to support the Freedom Recovery Fund, an initiative focused on expanding economic opportunity and closing the racial wealth gap in Porter County.

Centier Bank contributed $10,000 to the fund, supporting the Emerging Entrepreneur Grant Program, which provides funding to local Black entrepreneurs. To date, the donation is supporting two local business owners: Seifu Zerihun, founder of Kaytics, and Aman Wolde, founder of Bereket Technologies. Beyond its support of the Freedom Recovery Fund, Centier Bank provides resources for small businesses across Indiana, including SBA lending, treasury management services and personalized financial guidance to help entrepreneurs start, grow and sustain their businesses.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities,” said Lisa Misch, Vice President, SBA Relationship Specialist. “We’re proud to partner with Project Neighbors to invest in entrepreneurs which help to build stronger, more equitable local economies across Indiana. The 2026 recipients are impressive members of our communities and together can move small businesses and organizations forward.”

Seifu Zerihun Expands Data and AI Consulting Firm, Kaytics

Zerihun launched Kaytics in 2024 after building the business while working in corporate consulting. The company provides data analytics and artificial intelligence solutions, including forecasting models, workflow automation and reporting tools.

“Running your own business means you’re responsible for everything,” Zerihun said. “This support allows us to invest in marketing and business development so we can continue growing and reaching new clients.”

He plans to use the funding to expand digital marketing efforts and support business development hiring.

Aman Wolde Grows IT and Cloud Solutions Business, Bereket Technologies

Wolde founded Bereket Technologies to provide modern IT solutions, including cloud computing, artificial intelligence integration and website development. He transitioned to running the business full time in 2025 after starting it as a side venture.

“This business has become something I’m constantly building,” Wolde said. “The funding will help us establish a workspace and invest in marketing and sales so we can expand our reach.”

Wolde plans to use the grant to secure office space, invest in technology tools and support marketing and sales efforts.

More about Freedom Recovery Fund

The Freedom Recovery Fund, an initiative of Project Neighbors, supports Black wealth-building through programs that include emergency grants, financial education with matched savings, and merit scholarships.

Project Neighbors is a Valparaiso-based nonprofit focused on addressing racial inequity, expanding affordable housing and connecting residents to resources across Porter County. For more information on the Freedom Recovery Fund, visit https://projectneighbors.org/frf/.

About Centier Bank

Centier Bank is Indiana’s largest private, family-owned and operated bank, having served hometown banking across communities since 1895. With a purpose of enriching lives through financial guidance and caring relationships for an even better tomorrow, Centier Bank currently has nearly $10B in assets, more than 60 offices, serving in 35 communities across 12 counties with over 1,100 associates. Centier Bank has appeared on Forbes’ list of Best-in-State-Banks annually from 2018-2025. Additionally, Centier Bank has been among the top “Best Places to Work in Indiana” by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce and received national attention by American Banker magazine as the Top Best Bank to Work For in Indiana and #5 in the U.S.A. Locally, Centier Bank was just recognized as the best bank in Northwest Indiana for business and customer service in Northwest Indiana Business Magazine’s 2026 awards. For more information on Centier products and services, visit centier.com. Member FDIC.