Fortress Bank
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WE’VE TRAVELED THE same roads

Building a business isn’t for the faint of heart. We know. We’ve been there. We have team members who are former business owners or current side-hustlers who know what it takes to navigate the twists and turns in the entrepreneurial journey. You’ll get more than a roadmap. Think of us as a travel guide on your road to success. So, hop on board and enjoy the ride.

Learn More About Our Philosophy

Pitch Your Business Idea
And you could win $10,000!

Bank Tank Contest is our version of Shark Tank, where any current business or upstart can pitch their business vision for a chance to win $10,000. Elyce Billany, Fortress Marketing Director, will be hosting the event. Elyce’s side-hustle business was featured on ABC’s Shark Tank.

Feb 08
Sign Up

He’s got a little street cred.

Meet Lee — horse rancher, entrepreneur, and financial wiz who knows the ups and downs and sideways of running a business. Lee owned and managed a beer distributorship, and successfully navigated it through some brutally tough times. Oh, by the way, he’s our founder and CEO. And we’re happy he’s back in the saddle leading the charge here at the Fort.

Lee Garlach, CEO

WE MAKE IT
OUR BUSINESS
TO KNOW YOURS.

Your farm tells a story. How will the next chapter begin?

Our keynote speaker, Illinois grain farmer Rob Sharkey is known for his wildly successful SharkFarmer Podcast
and TV show. Rob knows how to directly address controversial topics and inspire farmers and ranchers to challenge themselves to try new things.

Jan 30
Learn More
Business Savvy

Been there.
Dreamed That.

Employee Spotlight
  • Jessica Fink / Banking Center Manager

    I started at Fortress as a teller and have grown within the company ever since, as well as continued to run my small photography business on the side.

    It really takes strong partnerships to get our projects to work. Fortress has been a huge support in what we’re doing.

    Abbey Gilroy

    FORTIFY YOUR FINANCES PODCAST

    Hosted by Elyce Billany

    Elyce Billany; Fortress Bank Marketing Director who’s side-hustle business was featured on ABC’s Shark Tank, chats with “The Best of the Midwest” entrepreneurs, innovators and finance experts.

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