Prime Highlights:
Fortuna Bank is Ohio’s first majority women-owned bank and one of only 20 nationwide.
The bank officially opened on December 9, 2024, with a ceremonial first account opening by Co-founder Lisa Berger.
Grand opening scheduled for January 30, 2025, in Grandview Heights, located at 871 Goodale Blvd.
Key Background:
Fortuna Bank has officially opened its doors as Ohio’s first majority women-owned bank, joining a select group of about 20 such institutions across the country. The Grandview Heights-based bank began operations on December 9, with Co-founder and Chairwoman Lisa Berger ceremonially unlocking the door and opening the bank’s first account. CEO Ilaria Rawlins, reflecting on the milestone, shared that the team had worked tirelessly for three years to bring the project to fruition.
The grand opening is scheduled for January 30, with Fortuna Bank located at 871 Goodale Blvd., in the Southern Station area of Grandview Heights. The bank, which currently employs seven staff members, plans to expand its team as it grows. Rawlins noted that Fortuna will launch several initiatives aimed at supporting women consumers and entrepreneurs, including financial literacy programs, networking opportunities, and mentorship.
The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) granted final approval for Fortuna’s opening on December 6, following earlier approval from the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions. The bank had raised $20.7 million in investments from about 350 shareholders, surpassing the initial $20 million target. Despite the early opening, Fortuna is proceeding cautiously, ensuring its systems, such as mobile banking, are fully operational before expanding services. For now, customers can use any ATM free of charge, though the bank currently does not have its own ATM.
Fortuna Bank is the fifth startup bank to launch in Central Ohio since 2019, cementing the region’s reputation as one of the busiest for new banking institutions. Rawlins expressed excitement about the bank’s mission, emphasizing the importance of relationships in Central Ohio’s business community. The bank aims to create a strong, supportive environment for women, not only as clients but also as investors and stakeholders in the financial industry.
