Loans for Growth.
Smart Banking Products.
As an SBA-approved Preferred Lender, we can streamline the SBA loan process, providing a faster and smoother experience. Our Preferred Lender status gives us greater flexibility and control over post-closing requests, allowing us to process, close, and service most SBA-guaranteed loans without needing prior SBA review. With over 115 years of combined SBA experience, our team is well-equipped to deliver exceptional service.
The Always.bank team is deeply versed in every kind of business lending. We understand that every business situation is different; and can help you find the funding that fits.
SVP / Sr. Managing Director of Government Guaranteed Lending
pfrie@always.bankPamela oversees process enhancements for efficiencies to broaden our ability to provide financing to small businesses throughout the country. She has over 30 years of banking experience, spending over 25 years specializing in SBA lending at top companies, including CIT Small Business Lending and ReadyCap Lending.
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
With over two decades of leadership in commercial banking, Steve Smith is the visionary behind Always.bank, a digital-first division of 22nd State Bank built to meet the unique needs of small business owners. As President and CEO of FEB Bancshares Inc., Steve has led the bank’s evolution from a traditional institution to a forward-thinking, customer-centric platform. His passion for entrepreneurship and relationship banking is rooted in his own family’s small business legacy and his deep ties to the communities Always.bank serves.
President
bjones@always.bankBill Jones is the President of Always.bank, where he leads the charge in delivering smarter SBA lending and personalized support for small business owners across the country. With over 15 years in commercial credit and banking leadership, Bill brings a unique blend of financial expertise and customer-first thinking to the digital-first division of 22nd State Bank. His passion for small business banking is rooted in thoughtful risk management and a belief that strong relationships, not just strong balance sheets, are the key to growth. At Always.bank, Bill is building a banking experience that puts entrepreneurs first.
Senior Business Development Officer
tpierson@always.bankAs a dedicated Business Development Officer, Trevor specializes in supporting small business owners by providing tailored financial solutions. With a strong track record in originating and closing a large variety of SBA loans, Trevor focuses on understanding the unique needs of each business he works with. His approach is built on personalized service and relationship building, ensuring that every client receives the attention and support they need to succeed.
Customer service is at the heart of Trevor's work. He prides himself on going above and beyond to make the loan process smooth and efficient, guiding business owners every step of the way. His commitment to exceptional service has helped numerous businesses secure the funding they need to thrive. Trevor is passionate about empowering small businesses and is dedicated to contributing to their long-term success.
Business Development Officer
tfeatherston@always.bankTyler Featherston is an experienced SBA Lending Specialist dedicated to helping small business owners access the capital they need to grow and succeed. He takes pride in thoughtfully structuring loan solutions tailored to each client’s goals, and finds genuine fulfillment in playing a role in their success stories. Outside of work, Tyler is a devoted husband and father of boys, and enjoys spending his weekends on the golf course—continuing his lifelong pursuit of a consistent short game.
Business Development Officer
jwarren@always.bankJoseph has over 8 years of lending experience, with over 6 years specializing specifically in SBA. His experience as a Loan Coordinator guiding borrowers through every step of the lending process gives him a unique insight into the intricacies of SBA from start to finish. Based in Syracuse, NY, he has worked with business owners across the nation in a wide array of industries. Joseph is always excited to help lead borrowers through a tailored experience and reach their dreams!
