Dennis Welch, SBA division manager at Frandsen Bank & Trust, Arden Hills, Minn., was recently named the 2018 Veteran Small Business Champion by the Minnesota District office of the Small Business Administration. Welch was one of 11 individuals recognized by the SBA for their commitment to advancing small business opportunities for veterans of the U.S. armed forces.
Welch, himself a veteran, has 19 years of experience working with the SBA. “I appreciate being recognized by the SBA,” Welch said. “I’m also thankful for the dedication the SBA has shown to veteran business owners, and am delighted to be a part of their efforts.”
Welch regularly speaks at veterans events, including the SBA’s Boots to Business seminar. He also regularly conducts one-on-one consultations with veterans.
“It’s a privilege to be able to share my knowledge with veterans who are starting a new business, expanding their existing business, or just need some business advice,” Welch said.
“This is quite an honor for both Dennis and Frandsen Bank,” said Rich Hoban, CEO of the $1.7 billion Frandsen Financial Corporation. “In just under two years, Dennis has taken our bank from very little SBA activity to one of the top SBA producers in the state of Minnesota.”
Welch was a member of the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, spending time in Ft. Bragg, N.D., and in Egypt with the Multinational Forces and Observers. He participated in Operation Urgent Fury. Welch will be honored at the Minnesota Small Business Week Awards Luncheon on May 11 in Minneapolis.
Frandsen Bank & Trust has bank offices in Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin.