Justine PETERSEN awarded SBA Illinois ‘Microlender of the Year’

On July 18, 2023, Justine PETERSEN’s Central Illinois team took a short road trip north to Chicago to attend the SBA Illinois 2023 Lender Awards Luncheon.

Taking place at the Union League Club in Chicago’s Loop, the event included remarks from senior leaders at the SBA, State of Illinois, and Chicagoland lending organizations, which all lead up to an awards presentation celebrating lenders and small business advocates throughout Illinois.

Justine PETERSEN (JP) received the unique distinction of SBA Microloan Program of the Year.

The award comes four months after JP, in partnership with Champaign County and the Champaign County Economic Development Corporation, officially launched the Champaign County Loan Fund.

JP’s Central Illinois Operations Manager Tristan Brown (pictured at left), who is based in Champaign, accepted the award on behalf of the organization, which was presented by SBA Illinois District Director Robert “Bo” Steiner.

Also representing JP with Brown was Asset Building Counselor Kristen Willis, who is based in Springfield, Ill. While Willis and Brown do spend a great deal of time serving clients in the communities they’re based in, they also work hard to grow relationships and service small business needs for clients in Decatur, Peoria, and other parts of Illinois.

A JP spokesperson noted that the organization considers it a wonderful honor to be recognized alongside partners and peers, such as Peoples National Bank and Bank of Springfield, and looks forward to continue being accessible to Illinois small business entrepreneurs.

Photos courtesy Justine PETERSEN.