Centier Bank celebrated National Small Business Week with a $10,000 donation to the Freedom Recovery Fund. The partnership with Project Neighbors will focus on “closing the racial wealth gap” in Porter County.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities,” said Lisa Misch, vice president, SBA relationship specialist at Centier, in a press release. “We’re proud to partner with Project Neighbors to invest in entrepreneurs, which help to build stronger, more equitable local economies across Indiana.”
The bank's $10,000 donation will support the Emerging Entrepreneur Grant Program.
So far two business owners are receiving funds: Seifu Zerihun, founder of Kaytics; and Aman Wolde, founder of Bereket Technologies.
Zerihun launched Kaytics in 2024. The company offers data analytics and artificial intelligence solutions. It has offices in Valparaiso, and Wheaton, Illinois.
“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.”
Wolde started Bereket Technologies in Crown Point as a side project and transitioned to full time in 2025.
“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.”
Project Neighbors, a Valparaiso-based nonprofit, focuses on racial inequality, affordable housing and resources for Porter County residents.
Centier Bank was founded in 1895, and now has more than 60 offices in 35 communities. It employs more than 1,000 associates.
