A New Model for Community-Focused Banking with Heart, Purpose, and Practical Support

Columbus Welcomes Fortuna Bank’s Bold Mission

Financial institutions are often seen as distant, rigid, and overly concerned with profits rather than people. In today’s fast-changing economy, aspiring entrepreneurs—especially women—face serious hurdles when seeking practical support for their dreams. In this episode of Looking Forward Our Way, we sit down with Ashley Dick, Chief Retail and Community Development Officer at Fortuna Bank, to explore a transformative approach to banking. Where empowerment, education, and genuine community support take center stage.

A People-First Approach: The Origins of Fortuna Bank

Fortuna Bank didn’t start with spreadsheets and projections. It began with a vision, data, and a founder’s desire to make a meaningful difference. According to Ashley Dick, founder Lisa Berger saw how dramatically underserved women are in the financial sector, not only as customers but also as leaders and investors. The journey to open Fortuna was grueling. 17 regulatory application attempts over three years. This required deliberate effort to include women as half of their investors, many of whom had never considered themselves owners before.

This mindset shift was key. Fortuna isn’t a charity or mere donation vehicle, but a true investment opportunity for women to grow wealth and influence.

More Than Transactions: Building Relationship-Driven Banking

What sets Fortuna apart isn’t just its ownership structure, but its philosophy. As a genuine community bank, Fortuna goes far beyond routine banking tasks. They actively host monthly events focused on financial literacy, business planning, leadership, and personal growth. At its core is the creation of safe spaces. This is especially vital for women who may have felt judged or dismissed elsewhere. Ashley Dick shared powerful stories of clients finding both empathy and expertise at Fortuna. Whether seeking mentorship, crying over debt, or asking “simple” questions without fear of being patronized.

Hands-On Support for Entrepreneurs

Starting and scaling a business can be overwhelming. Fortuna provides tailored services that walk entrepreneurs through every step, from business plans and financial projections to network-building and mentorship. Through panels, connections to local business owners, and one-on-one support, Fortuna ensures no client has to “figure it out” alone. They help demystify everything from LLC structuring to cash flow management. Addressing the persistent challenges many women face in accessing capital (too often relying on personal credit cards).

Innovative Products for Businesses and Nonprofits

Beyond relationship-driven service, Fortuna is pushing the envelope with practical financial tools.

The bank offers IntraFi, a solution that protects large deposits by spreading funds across a network of banks. This will help clients enjoy full FDIC coverage without juggling multiple accounts. For nonprofits, Fortuna delivers fee-free accounts, tailored advice, and educational resources, plus unique consulting services for nonprofit boards. Their approach is direct: empower organizations so they, in turn, strengthen the entire community.

Tech-Forward, Locally-Focused: Meeting Needs from Anywhere

Despite currently having one physical location, Fortuna uses thoughtful technology to make banking simple. Clients can use any ATM (free of charge), manage finances through mobile apps, and access hands-on help for transitions. The emphasis is on making banking convenient, accessible, and supportive, so clients can focus on building businesses or managing their personal affairs rather than navigating bureaucratic hurdles.

Wisdom for the Road Ahead: Empowerment in Action

As Ashley Dick reminds listeners, strong communities grow from empowered individuals and successful local businesses. Fortuna sees every dollar deposited as a way to reinvest in Columbus, making real change for “one loan at a time.” Their advice to entrepreneurs? Be intentional, seek out trusted partners, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or lean on your community.

Fortuna Bank as a Model for the Future

Fortuna Bank is redefining what banking can mean. By placing heart, expertise, and inclusivity at its core, it offers a blueprint for how financial institutions can truly serve—and uplift—everyone. Whether you’re dreaming of launching a side hustle, growing your company, or looking for thoughtful support as a nonprofit, Fortuna stands as a testament to what community banking should look like: accessible, empowering, and invested in your success.

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Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.

Copyright 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0

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Listener Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed by the experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations. The information provided in these interviews is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice or information related to their individual circumstances. The podcast host and producers do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by the experts interviewed. Listener discretion is advised.

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