Business Growth Series

Funding Sources for Startups and Growth with Kaitlin Byers, Teresa Jensen, and Samantha Kitch. 

Join us for this month’s Business Growth Series session on Funding Sources for Startup and Growth! Learn about the various funding options available to fuel your business, from Kiva no-interest micro-loans to SBA loans, traditional loans, and grants. Whether you’re launching a new startup or looking to expand an established business, this session will provide expert insights into how to secure the financial resources you need to grow.

Meet the Speakers:

Kaitlin Byers: As an experienced nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, and grant writer, Kaitlin has worked across multiple disciplines in the nonprofit and startup space. Kaitlin launched the first statewide Kiva Hub in the nation (Kiva Iowa) in 2021 and continues to oversee the entire borrower, lender, and stakeholder pipeline in both the Iowa & Quad Cities market(s). Prior to Kiva, Kaitlin spearheaded the development efforts at a startup nonprofit – NewBoCo – helping design, fund, and execute over 15+ separate entrepreneurial & technical education programs; growing a budget of $0 to over $2 million in under 5 years. Kaitlin continues to engage with the startup community as a mentor and judge of statewide pitch competitions. Kaitlin spends free time traveling or being active outdoors with her two young kids and husband. When Kaitlin needs a creative outlet, you will find her singing with her band or performing in local theatre productions.

Teresa Jensen: Teresa serves as Business Banking O cer at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust. Teresa has nearly 30 years of banking experience. As a small business owner herself, Teresa’s grasp of small business needs, along with her passion to provide education, resources, and connections, make her a valued and trusted banker to her clients and the bank. Teresa is active in the community. She serves on the executive planning committee for the American Heart Association’s Heart Ball. Teresa also serves on the board of 100+ Who Care.

Samantha Kitch: Samantha Kitch, Outreach and Marketing Specialist has been with the SBA for 4 years. Samantha started as a District Support Assistant and has been in her OMS role since March of 2024. Samantha is located at the Cedar Rapids, Iowa branch office. As Outreach and Marketing Specialist, Samantha promotes and educates the community about the SBA’s resources and funding options through visits, meetings, conferences, and presentation. Samantha attended the University of Northern Iowa where she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in communications: electronic media. Outside of work, Samantha loves to spend time with her family, go on bike rides, try new local restaurants and work on her photography.

Join us every third Wednesday from 8:45 – 10:00 AM for Business Growth Series, where expert professionals share their insights on how to build a successful business. Each session focuses on a critical topic that will help you advance your business journey, providing you with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Program schedule
8:30 to 8:45 – Coffee & Networking
8:45 to 10:00 – Official Program

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NewBoCo Events are sponsored by CRBT.