SMARTstart Microloan Program Receives Donation from Bank OZK

February 3, 2026

Through the support of the Pasco EDC Microloan Program, companies have created over 295 jobs in Pasco County.

PASCO COUNTY, FLORIDA (February 3, 2026) — Pasco Economic Development Council (Pasco EDC) is excited to announce that Bank OZK has donated $4,000 to the SMARTstart Microloan Program and became a Partner Investor in the organization. The Microloan Program gives entrepreneurs the funds they need to start or grow their business.

“At Bank OZK, we believe small businesses deserve more than capital, they deserve partners,” said Ehren McGeehan, Bank OZK Senior Vice President and Business Banking Sales Manager. “We’re committed to helping entrepreneurs by delivering flexible capital, trusted expertise, and long-term partnerships so they grow sustainably and build lasting impact in their communities. We are so pleased that our donation to Pasco EDC will support technical assistance to small businesses as well as their Microloan Program.“

The Microloan Program helps entrepreneurs and small businesses in Pasco County diversify our economy and create opportunities for growth. Since the program began, it has supported over 85 local businesses resulting in over 295 direct jobs. To qualify for a microloan, businesses must be headquartered in Pasco County. Funds can be used for purchasing inventory and machinery, working capital, supplies, and more.

“We are very grateful for Bank OZK's support and their recent generous donation to the Microloan Program. The SMARTstart Microloan Program is an important resource for our community's entrepreneurs as they establish and build a strong business foundation and continue to grow for years to come," shared Bill Cronin, Pasco EDC President/CEO. 

Shaila Velazquez, owner of Pampano Coffee, is a recent Microloan recipient who is in the process of opening her brick-and-mortar facility in Zephyrhills. “We are incredibly grateful for the Pasco EDC Microloan Program! This funding will allow us to purchase the equipment and furnishings needed to open our doors,” shared Velazquez. “It was the missing piece of our funding mix that will help turn our vision into reality.”

If your business is interested in learning more about or making a donation to the Microloan Program, visit www.smartstartpasco.com/microloan or contact Dan Mitchell, EDP, CFP®, Pasco EDC Assistant Vice President, Entrepreneurship, at dmitchell@pascoedc.com.

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About Pasco Economic Development Council
The Pasco Economic Development Council is committed to developing Florida's most competitive climate for business growth by providing businesses, that seek to start, move, or grow in the North Tampa Bay area, a comprehensive suite of programs that can help them to reach their full economic potential.  Since 1987, Pasco EDC has fostered a strong partnership funded by corporate and public investors focused on the economic vitality of Pasco County.  Discover more at www.pascoedc.com.