Five Star Bank Earns SBA Gold Award for Powering Small Businesses in Western New York
The community bank approved $11.7 million in 7(a) loans through the SBA’s Buffalo District Office, helping to support more than 900 local jobs
BUFFALO, N.Y. – June 1, 2026 – Five Star Bank’s (the “Bank” or “Five Star”) commitment to small business lending helped the growing community bank earn the prestigious Gold Award through the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) Buffalo District Office. During the agency’s 2025 fiscal year, Five Star approved 83 7(a) loans locally totaling $11.7 million, supporting over 900 jobs across the Buffalo region and broader Western New York market.
“At Five Star Bank, we believe small business is big business,” said Five Star Bank Director of Business Banking Adam Bickel. “Small businesses drive New York’s economy, and we are committed to being their partner and providing high-touch, relationship-based capital solutions. We are incredibly proud to receive the SBA Gold Award and to be recognized for our ongoing commitment to helping local business owners access the resources they need to grow and succeed.”
The SBA Gold Award is determined based on loan volume, number of loans and economic impact during the federal agency’s fiscal year, which runs from October 1 through September 30. For Five Star, the recognition highlights continued demand among small businesses for financing to support expansion, equipment purchases and hiring.
In addition, the SBA named Jose Mendoza, Five Star Bank Senior Banking Relationship Manager, as a recipient of its Small Business Advocate Award for his work supporting local entrepreneurs.
About Financial Institutions, Inc. and Five Star Bank
Financial Institutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: FISI) is a financial holding company with approximately $6.3 billion in assets as of March 31, 2026, offering banking and wealth management products and services. Its Five Star Bank subsidiary provides consumer and commercial banking and lending services to individuals, municipalities and businesses through banking locations spanning Western and Central New York and a commercial loan production office serving the Mid-Atlantic region. Courier Capital, LLC offers customized investment management, financial planning and consulting services to individuals and families, businesses, institutions, non-profits, and retirement plans. Learn more at Five-StarBank.com.