We believe in building strong relationships with our clients. After all, we’re part of the same community. Hear from some of the businesses and people we’ve helped over the years — and reach out to us about sharing your own story.

WORDS FROM OUR FANS

See what our business clients have to say about their experiences banking with Republic Bank of Arizona:

Alan Hall, KLMR Homes

“The personal attention and professionalism provided by RBAZ have solidified this important relationship. We see Republic Bank of Arizona as a key trade partner and look forward to growing together.”

Erik Hanson, Identity Builders, LLC

“RBAZ and Patrick Sutter, our Banker, are just a good fit for us. We can always speak to him or someone at the Bank that can help. We are looking for a business partner, not just a lender, and we have that in RBAZ.”

Lilach Mazor Power, Giving Tree Dispensary

“I appreciate the ease of making things work banking with RBAZ. With every deposit or withdrawal, I’m greeted by name, and they consistently ensure my requests are promptly completed.”

Brian O’Connor, Tri West Realty

“When you walk into the bank, people stand up and greet you,” says Brian. “And that means a lot. It’s an organization that really cares for its customers. I am very appreciative of the bank, the team, and Kristen.”

Chris Glass, High Tide Restaurants

“The bank believed in our vision and drive and supported our business model. They took us aboard in the very beginning and we have had a great relationship since then. I thank them for believing in us. The bank has been a wonderful partner because, like us, they truly care about their customers.”

Justin Breeden, Sonoran Learning & Behavioral Services

“We want to bank with people who know who we are, who can provide real solutions, and who we can talk to when we need to. Republic Bank of Arizona is all of that and has exceeded our expectations so far. We’ve really enjoyed our relationship with the bank.”

Michael Bratton, Copperstate Farms

“We wanted to work with a financial partner that understands the challenges we face, but also respects the regulations associated with the industry and operates in a safe manner. RBAZ plays by the book and we play by the book.”

Josh Gonzalez, American Veteran Contracting Solutions, LLC

“We wanted to work with a local bank that supports our vision. It’s why we’re working with RBAZ. They were the most forthcoming with their support of our growth plans.”

Betsy Wolf, Osborne & Keenan, P.C.

“Thanks to you and all those at Republic Bank of Arizona for your assistance in getting the loans and their forgiveness. You were all so easy to work with and so helpful. Your bank was referred to us and we would not hesitate to refer you to others.”

Sheldon Knapp, The Phoenix City Grille

“The bank solicited our business, so when I met with them and told them what I needed, the bank was able to put together a plan for us. The most important thing for me is that my bank has an understanding of my businesses.”

Trase Barney, HealthyU Family Medicine

“We wanted to work with a local community bank. A few colleagues recommended Republic Bank of Arizona. We talked to a lot of banks before making a decision. We feel RBAZ is the best vendor partnership we have.”

Jan Sandlin, The Frank Development Group, Inc.

”I just want to take a moment to THANK YOU for the SUPERIOR customer service that you all always provide. You guys are the best!”

George Botea, CFO, Black Mountain Investment Company

“We chose Republic because we know and trust the people working there. I know if there’s ever anything I need, I can pick up the phone and get a decision-maker on the line. I have high respect for Brian; he’s a man of integrity. You guys are friendly, and I get the sense that you want us to succeed.”

Denise Holliday, Esq., Hull, Holliday & Holliday PLC

“Your company was a rock star in that process and I have been singing your praises for months.”

Ted Simons, Synergy Group

“My experience with RBAZ has given me hope that customer service still exists! I appreciate your communication and follow through during this process.”

Candice Bender-Dee & Mark Dee, Recovery Rx

“Just a quick message to express our sincere appreciation for the effort you contributed to helping Recovery Rx to successfully secure this important supplemental funding. We look forward to establishing a permanent relationship with Republic Bank of Arizona and to working closer together in the near future.”

Teresa Ornelas, Great Impact

“What drew me to Republic Bank of Arizona is their involvement in the business community. When PPP came out and I was scrambling for information, my bank would not help me. That was the last straw for me and I decided to look for another bank. I called RBAZ and the next day Karen Vitkovich came to our office and talked to us about our needs and what makes RBAZ different from other banks. After spending time with her I decided to move my accounts over ASAP and I have not looked back since.”

Bob Brown, BBM Services

“Thank you so much for all your help during this process. It has been a difficult year to say the least, and I appreciate your help. You have definitely secured my future business with Republic Bank of Arizona.”

Todd Bond, Bond Properties

“I love that I can walk into Brian’s office and say, ‘here’s what I need,’ and he’ll listen and help. I couldn’t imagine doing what I do working with a national bank.”

Elizabeth Oviedo, Symmetry Software

“I really appreciate the responsiveness the bank provides us. The bank was really incredible during the PPP loan process. We had a very successful and seamless experience, which I know many other businesses did not receive with their bank. We are very grateful for the bank’s help leading us through the process.”

Aimee Runyon, Assistance League of Phoenix

“Republic Bank of Arizona is our hero! Not only was the team completely on top of the PPP, they have all been so responsive and willing to help. I realize that banks everywhere are overloaded trying to roll out this new and unprecedented program. I hate to think of where we would be today without Republic Bank. My hope is that every small business/nonprofit that was not a customer, but that Republic Bank helped during this time of great need, will move their banking and become a customer.”

Wayne Lipovitch, North Phoenix Animal Clinic

“Thank you for helping me with the PPP loan. I realize the pressure the banks were under to process so many loans in such a short period of time. I appreciate you helping me out, especially considering I was not a customer at your bank. You helped me when my own bank wouldn’t. Thanks again, and stay healthy.”

Ginny Jontes, Heidi’s Village

“I had an unusual financial situation that most banks found complicated. They found a way to make the loan process simple and easy. Everyone I have encountered at the bank has been friendly, helpful and professional. I would recommend the Republic Bank of Arizona to anyone needing a loan for their business. They care about each client and work hard to find a loan that works for you. I have had a relationship with many banks over the years, but none that met the gold standard in my book like the Republic Bank of Arizona!”

Tim Kuhn, Arizona Tuition Connection

“The bank has been phenomenal to work with. They’ve bent over backwards to meet our needs and help us run our organization more efficiently. They really seem to understand the financial needs of the nonprofit community.”

Andy Price, Boy Scouts of America, Grand Canyon Council

“Republic Bank of Arizona continues to work with us to help us save money and be better stewards with the resources entrusted to us.”

Tom Shorall, Shorall McGoldrick Brinkmann

“Our banking needs are simple, but what we do need is a bank that’s accessible and flexible. The inflexibility of most large banks was frustrating. They don’t know who you are, and you can never get one person who you can call. Republic Bank of Arizona offered the personal, human element we needed, focusing more on accommodating our needs and building a relationship with us. It’s similar to how we practice.”

Benjamin Hall, Benjamin Hall Design

“I like that Republic Bank of Arizona is local and not part of a huge corporation. It’s nice to meet with someone in person if I have a question. Carlos is more than willing to come to the construction site and meet with me or answer any questions I have. And, I feel like I benefit from the bank’s knowledge of this market from a banking perspective.”

Ralph Rockow, Exodyne

“I’m impressed with the progress the Bank has made, becoming a highly-rated, financially sound institution focused on supporting local businesses and the local community.”

Jon Perkins, Sonoran Plumbing Supply

“I believe Republic Bank of Arizona is genuinely focused on helping local businesses be successful, and that’s great for us. I know I can count on Todd and his team to look out for us, and do what is in our best interest as a company.”

James Devlin, Sonoran Express Car Wash

“I’ve had a number of banking relationships with the large national and international banks and thought it would be easy to work with them on the capital structure for this business. I was absolutely shocked by the lack of interest, best case, or with the level of arrogance when I initially engaged them. From there, I stepped back to look for a partner that was focused on my business and my needs. Republic Bank of Arizona fit the bill immediately. They have SBA experience and a great team servicing my account — in particular, Carlos Molina and Emily Chedister.”

Peter Pascu, DWL Architects

“Our former bank kept changing our account representatives at a rapid rate. When it got to the point that our account representatives no longer understood the nature of our business, did not understand our business needs, and we became just another account number for them, we knew we needed to make a change. So we did. Switching to Republic Bank of Arizona proved to be just the partner we were looking for.”

Frank Heldt, Heldt Lumber

“When we banked at a larger corporate bank, we sometimes felt like just a number. Banking at Republic Bank of Arizona, we have a sense that they understand who we are, what we do, and how we do it. I most appreciate the fact that it’s a local bank and they make us feel very valued.”

Aaron Klusman, Developer, Campbell Commons

“Anytime you get a group of people that believe in your abilities and have confidence in what you’re doing, it’s a big asset. The trust factor is big and works both ways with them willing to work with me, and my comfort level with Republic Bank of Arizona. I know I can trust them to do right by me.”

Samir Yono, Owner, All American Sports Grill

“As a business owner, I’ve been with multiple banks for over 50 years and have never received such a high level of client service as I have from Republic Bank of Arizona. Every loan request submitted was studied carefully and the approval was based on their guidelines but also on the experience of the client and their successes. Banking with a local bank who treats you like family makes all the difference.”

Shahe Koulloukian, President, Mazvo, Inc.

“Being a small business owner and operator for over 19 years my primary focus has always been to build a lasting relationship with my clients and that is the same treatment I receive from Republic Bank of Arizona. Everyone at the bank is enthusiastic, responsive and attentive to my financial needs. Banking and buying local benefits all of us in the community.”

Jim LaBrie, Owner, Bug and Weed Mart Stores

“I switched from banking with an impersonal “big box, too-big-to-fail” institution and got a dramatically more personal and efficient experience from Republic Bank of Arizona. I like keeping business and personal monies here in Arizona, and the service from Republic Bank of Arizona has been exceptional!”

James E. Gerdes, President, Industrial Refrigeration & Boiler Company

“Republic Bank and other community banks are essential to keep Arizona generated banking profits available for reinvestment in Arizona enterprise rather than being sent out of our local economy.”

Howard Peterson, Co-Owner, American West Construction and Development

“The banking team at Republic Bank of Arizona has done and continues to do an outstanding job in taking care of my company’s business banking needs. In today’s world of large, national banks, it is refreshing to work with a local bank that genuinely cares about its clients. If your business is looking for a hard-working banking partner, consider Republic Bank of Arizona.”

Alan Hall, KLMR Homes

KLMR Homes, a privately held real estate developer founded in 2021, has quickly emerged as a dynamic force in Phoenix’s real estate market. For this article, we had the great opportunity to interview one of the founders, Alan Hall. “We’re excited about the progress we’ve made so far and are looking forward to announcing even more projects in the near future,” says Alan.

Read Alan’s story.

Erik Hanson, Identity Builders, LLC

Erik Hanson, a Phoenix native, is a seasoned developer and a driving force behind Identity Builders, LLC. Along with his two business partners, Jimmy Younger and Michael Hanchett, Hanson has been shaping the urban landscape of Phoenix for the past 16 years.

Read Erik’s story.

Giving Tree Dispensary

In the growing and evolving landscape of the cannabis industry, Giving Tree Dispensary stands out, not only as a provider of medical and recreational cannabis, but as an example of empowerment and innovation. Founded by local entrepreneur Lilach Mazor Power, this woman-owned and operated business has a unique and inspiring approach, and an evolving partnership with Republic Bank of Arizona (RBAZ).

Read Lilach’s story.

Tri West Realty

When work obligations prevented Brian O’Connor from attending his best friend’s wedding, he knew he needed to make a change. Brian left his successful job in high-tech sales, moved from California to Arizona, and opened his boutique real estate investment company, Tri West Realty in 2008.

Read Brian’s story.

High Tide Restaurants

After a career in sales with a wholesale restaurant food supplier, Restauranteur Chris Glass retired in 2013 to realize his dream of opening a restaurant in the Valley. He and his wife Kim opened High Tide Seafood & Bar in 2014, building the business from scratch. The restaurant achieved phenomenal success with support from extremely loyal customers and employees.

Read their story.

Sonoran Learning & Behavioral Services

With an unrelenting passion to effectively serve children with Autism, Paige and Justin Breeden started Sonoran Learning & Behavioral Services. Read how the couple focuses on supporting the local Autism community by providing a customized approach tailored to the individual needs of each child.

Read their story

Copperstate Farms

With over 1.7 million square feet of canopy and 40 acres under glass, RBAZ customer Copperstate Farms brings the best practices from big agriculture to the growing cannabis industry. But it’s not just about farming for the company, it’s about bringing economic growth to the community and the founder’s home state of Arizona.

Read their story

AMERICAN VETERANS CONTRACTING SOLUTIONS

American Veteran Contracting Solutions (AVCS) was founded on the belief that every American veteran deserves to be laid to rest with dignity, honor, and respect. Read how this veteran-owned family business has found phenomenal success doing work they love.

Get the Full Story

ACCIDENT LAW GROUP

Accident Law Group Founder Joe Brown started his firm in support of the underdog. Read how this RBAZ client’s passion to help “the average Joe” has helped him achieve phenomenal success in just six years.

Read Joe’s Story

THE PHOENIX CITY GRILLE

His long-term plan to move to Europe was scrapped when his love for the restaurant business and Phoenix took hold. Sheldon Knapp, owner of The Phoenix City Grille, created a place for customers to have a great meal in a relaxed and friendly environment. A place that has thrived for 25+ years thanks to his passion for “keeping things fresh and exciting.”

Read Sheldon’s Story

HEALTHYU FAMILY MEDICINE

The team at HealthyU Family Medicine is on a mission to significantly improve access to primary care in many underserved areas around Arizona. The HealthyU model is focused on providing access to a primary care provider who remains at the center of the patient’s care journey, with one primary goal: to keep the patient healthy and out of the hospital.

Read Their Story

BLACK MOUNTAIN INVESTMENT COMPANY

In just over a decade, Black Mountain Investment Company has grown from an Arizona-based residential development company to a national investment firm. Started by childhood friends, Black Mountain is built on a foundation of trust and offers clients a diversified portfolio that focuses on the aerospace, engineering, real estate, and construction industries.

Read Black Mountain’s Story

GREAT IMPACT

Innovation, determination, and creative thinking helped Teresa Ornelas develop a thriving promotional products and apparel company. She shares how her woman-owned business overcame economic hardships, tips to keep employees motivated, and her ultimate secret for running a successful business.

Read Teresa’s Story

BOND PROPERTIES

The resilience and determination shown by many of our customers is remarkable. Todd Bond is no exception. We enjoyed his inspirational story about being homeless as a child, developing a lucrative career in the auto industry, building Bond Properties into a successful business, and then rebuilding it after nearly losing it all. Our favorite tip from Todd: “Stay positive, even during the hard times.”

Read Todd’s Story

SYMMETRY SOFTWARE

In 1984, Symmetry Software sold one product and was run solely by software pioneer, Tom Reahard. Today, Symmetry Software is known as a leader in payroll-related technology applications that simplify the payroll process from start to finish. From quirky, unconventional beginnings, Tom and his team continue to provide leading-edge and regulatory-compliant products.

Read Their Story

HEIDI'S VILLAGE

While the existing animal welfare organizations in Maricopa County do a phenomenal job of rescuing and treating hurt, abandoned and homeless pets, there are just not enough resources to house these animals during their recovery and prior to adoption. Heidi’s Village is paving the way for animal welfare organizations in the Valley with a safe place to board animals, provide medical and behavioral support, and ultimately find them loving homes, says founder Ginny Jontes.

Read Ginny’s Story

ARIZONA TUITION CONNECTION

All students deserve the chance to succeed in school and Arizona Tution Connection is all about giving them that chance. While the nonprofit provides scholarships for families at all income levels, it focuses its efforts on supporting low-income families with access to schools they may not otherwise be able to attend. Executive Director Tim Kuhn started the organization eight years ago when he saw a need to help parents navigate through the complicated paperwork of applying for tuition funding.

Read Tim’s Story

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA

Exciting changes are going on at the Grand Canyon Council of the Boy Scouts of America. Scout Executive Andy Price is taking on the challenges with a positive outlook. He and his team are working hard to boost membership and increase the support the organization has built within the community. Andy also shares some important tips for other non-profits on what to look for when choosing a bank.

Read Andy’s story

SHORALL MCGOLDRICK BRINKMANN

Representing other lawyers can be challenging for a law firm, but one that the Shorall McGoldrick Brinkmann law firm has mastered. The firm prides itself on it’s expertise and extensive trial experience, which has become harder to find these days, says founding partner Tom Shorall.

Read Tom’s story

BENJAMIN HALL DESIGN

“About every three years, I need to take a break from working on client designs and design and build my own project,” explains Benjamin Hall, award-winning architect and owner of Benjamin Hall Design. “It’s really a joy to physically see how your own work influences a community.” His newest project, a micro-housing development in downtown Phoenix, is doing just that.

Read Benjamin’s story

EXODYNE

Growing up on a farm, Ralph Rockow had no idea his knack for repairing farm equipment would give him the basic skills to help send astronauts to the moon and back. A Republic Bank of Arizona customer and founding shareholder, Ralph has a rich professional career that includes several historic innovations, many of which have saved thousands of lives.

Read Ralph’s story

SONORAN PLUMBING SUPPLY

Jon Perkins and his son Jonathan opened their plumbing supply store with a card table, two chairs, a pad of paper, and support from suppliers who offered him extended terms. Then it happened — a friend from the past placed a very large order and paid for it up front.

Read Jon’s story.

PREVIOUS CLIENT SPOTLIGHTS

DWL Architects

“I’ve always had the ability to think three dimensionally, and that in many ways led to my interest in architecture,” said Pascu, executive vice president of DWL Architects, a firm that has successfully weathered the economic ups and downs for nearly 70 years.

Read Peter’s story

Spotlight on Heldt Lumber

“Some of the core products have stayed the same,” said Heldt. “A two-by-four is still a two-by-four, but many of the products we sell have changed since my father started the business 64 years ago. How the products are manufactured

Read Frank’s story