Derek Ezovski: Powering Small Business Growth by Clearing the Path to “Yes”

Derek Ezovski professional headshot

When lenders face complex environmental questions, deals can stall—and small businesses can miss their moment. Derek Ezovski saw that gap and built a solution.

In 2009, Derek founded Outsourced Risk Management Solutions, LLC (ORMS) with a clear purpose: simplify environmental due diligence and make the lending process more transparent, consistent, and accessible. With his extensive background as a civil engineer, Derek transformed niche expertise into a powerful tool for lenders navigating risk.

Today, the ORMS team plays a critical role in helping SBA lenders confidently evaluate environmental risk tied to real estate. Their work doesn’t just move files forward—it turns uncertainty into action, helping projects reach the all-important “yes.”  And every “yes” means a business opening its doors, expanding operations, and creating jobs—fueling a ripple effect that strengthens communities and drives the American Dream.

Derek’s entrepreneurial journey hasn’t been without challenges. Like many business owners, he navigated the uncertainty of the pandemic by securing a vital PPP loan in 2020 and later leveraging the Connecticut Boost loan program to stabilize and grow ORMS. After a strategic turnaround in 2024, the company surged to nearly $3 million in sales and launched an innovative online platform—momentum that led to Derek being named the SBA 2026 National Small Business Person of the Year. 

Looking ahead, ORMS is poised to make an even greater impact. With plans to expand its specialized services to a broader network of SBA lenders in 2026, Derek and his team are committed to ensuring more small businesses get the expert support they need—and more opportunities get the green light.

This article does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the SBA of any opinions, products, or services of any private individual or entity.