l - r: Andrew Altepeter, Collin Ferguson, Dennis Pederson, Chris Jundt, Mike Gallagher (SBA), Ken Penn, Dale Van Eckhout (SBA), Sheryl Morken, Kristina Zimmerman, Teresa Carnes

Fargo - First National Bank & Trust Co. of Williston is awarded the Director’s Award for their commitment to small business financing using U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) programs.

First National Bank & Trust Co. of Williston approved 15 loans and $2.5 million in small business financing under SBA’s 7(a) General Business Loan Program and is among six North Dakota lenders being recognized by the SBA.

“We are truly grateful for the commitment these lenders made in providing needed financing to small businesses,” offered Jim Stai, district director of the SBA’s North Dakota District Office.  “Working with lending partners throughout the state, SBA was able to help grow our economy and add jobs.”

Over $98.9 million in total lending was supported by SBA and its lending partners this past fiscal year ending September 30, 2012.  This included $47.8 million under the agency’s largest loan program, the 7(a) General Business Loan Program and a supported $51.2 million in small business lending under the 504 Certified Development Company Loan Program.  Twenty-six loans worth $15.4 million were approved for small businesses in Williams County.

For additional information on SBA programs and services, contact Dale Van Eckhout in the Bismarck office at 701-250-4303 or dale.vaneckhout@sba.gov, or contact the North Dakota District Office in Fargo at 701-239-5131 or north.dakota@sba.gov.

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