Business

Efficiency and security go hand in hand for today’s business owners.  Through Prevail Bank’s Business Resource Manager, enhanced online and mobile banking tools – such as Positive Pay – help businesses operate more efficiently while protecting against fraud.
 

Positive Pay is a fraud prevention system, one of the most powerful tools you can use to protect...

Owning a successful business is a core part of the American Dream. While many aspire to business ownership, fewer fully appreciate the work required to build, stabilize, and sustain a business over the long term. The reality is that success comes only after significant effort — especially in the early stages. For those willing to put in the time, the reward can be well worth it.

Having been raised in a family of small business owners,...

Cyber criminals are constantly trying to break into business accounts to extort money – this is called a Corporate Account Takeover, or CATO. With the advantage of artificial intelligence, these attacks are increasing in frequency and sophistication.

The FBI's Internet Crime Report shows just how big this problem is. In 2024, people reported over $16 billion in losses from internet crimes, which is a huge...

As a business owner, it’s beneficial to be proactive in your business strategies vs. reactive.

Being proactive with your business strategy means anticipating industry trends, whether it’s a challenge, new threat, or an opportunity. When a reactive business strategy is in place (or none at all) a plan must be created to manage an unforeseen situation, often with damaging and/or costly consequences. With the fast pace of change in...

For over 30 years Joe Patoka has been a successful journeyman plumber in the Portage County area. A familiar face, Joe built a reputation for reliable, expert plumbing service, tackling everything from minor repairs to major installations.

In 2023, Joe and his wife Jodi heard that the previous owner of Best Septic Services was ready to sell the business. Recognizing the opportunity to take on ownership of an already successful business, Joe and Jodi were ready for a...

Steph Schmid’s business name, Wisco Branding, proudly reflects both local heritage and her commitment to amplifying genuine brand voices for sustainable growth.

Before starting Wisco Branding, Steph Schmid worked in radio as a digital marketing consultant, gaining experience in scriptwriting and commercial production. Recognizing she could better serve customers with personalized and flexible solutions, she dove into entrepreneurship and launched Wisco Branding....

Driven by a passion for community impact and aligned with the values of American Family Insurance, Hanna Sellner established her own business in 2023, Hanna Sellner Agency, LLC, to offer personalized insurance solutions. Her endeavor is built upon her background in account management, sales roles, and her ties to community through coaching high school volleyball at Regis Catholic School in Eau Claire.

Hanna’s office is guided by the core values of accountability,...

When seeking financing for your business, it’s crucial to remember that the relationship between you and your lender is a two-way street. While the bank evaluates your creditworthiness and ability to repay, you also have the opportunity to demonstrate that you’re a reliable partner. As a lender, I understand the importance of these interactions. But as someone who also sits on the side of the table as a customer, I know how vital it is to present yourself in a way...