Ohio’s banking sector saw a notable industry development with the Dec. 2024 launch of Fortuna Bank, the state’s first majority women-owned financial institution.
Based in Grandview Heights (near Columbus), Fortuna is one of only 15 or so such banks similarly structured nationwide. Its leadership choice is being positioned as a strategy aimed at reshaping traditional banking by prioritizing relationships and financial empowerment.
The Birth of Fortuna Bank
The concept for Fortuna Bank was born out of a desire to create a financial institution centered more on relationships rather than transactions. CEO Ilaria Rawlins, a seasoned banking executive with more than two decades of experience, was approached by a fellow female banking leader to help shape this mission-driven venture. “They reached out to me because of the relationships that we had before,” Rawlins shared, emphasizing the community-driven nature of the bank’s foundation.
After two and a half years of meticulous planning, Fortuna received final approval from the FDIC on Dec. 6, 2024.
This green light followed an earlier nod from the Ohio Division of Financial Institutions. By mid-2024, the bank had already secured 85 percent of its $20 million fundraising goal, ultimately surpassing it to raise $20.7 million from roughly 350 shareholders.
A New Hub for Women in Finance
Fortuna Bank commenced operations with Co-founder and Chairwoman Lisa Berger symbolically unlocking the doors and registering the first account. The official grand opening celebration took place Jan. 30, 2025, at the bank headquarters at 871 Goodale Blvd., just 2.5 miles from downtown Columbus.
The bank currently operates with a lean team of seven employees but plans to expand as it scales up services. The branch structure surrounding them has a purposeful, open architectural design. The area is adaptable to holding educational events and networking programs that can foster connections and empowerment for women in finance.
Addressing the Unique Financial Needs of Women
Fortuna’s approach to banking is designed to address the unique financial challenges women often face. Studies show that women tend to borrow and seek funding less frequently than their male counterparts. Recognizing this, Fortuna aims to bridge financial literacy gaps and provide customized banking solutions.
Understanding the Financial Discrepancies Women Face
We know because we’ve walked in their shoes,” Rawlins explains. “We’ve seen some of the discrepancies and the financial literacy gaps that can take place for women. We felt like that was a great place we could step into.”.
Bridging the Financial Literacy Gap
To deepen its service of a female clientele, Fortuna will roll out financial literacy programs, female mentorship opportunities, and networking initiatives tailored to women entrepreneurs and professionals. While the bank is focused on uplifting women, Rawlins emphasizes that it is designed to serve the entire community. “At the end of the day, we’d love to be a great community bank for everybody.”
Fortuna’s Long-Term Vision
Fortuna Bank is the fifth de novo bank to launch in Central Ohio since 2019, boosting the region’s reputation as a hub for new banking institutions. Rawlins, who has held leadership roles at First Financial Bank, The First Bexley Bank, and Ohio Savings Bank, believes the Columbus-area market is primed for a relationship-based banking model.
Though still in its early stages, Fortuna is strategically pacing its growth. For now, customers can use any ATM in its network (Allpoint) free of charge. Fortuna corporate leaders intend eventually to introduce their own ATMs. Digital banking infrastructure remains a top priority, ensuring that the institution is technologically robust before scaling its offerings.
Inclusive Banking: A New Era for Financial Institutions
As Fortuna Bank establishes its foothold in Central Ohio, it reflects a broader shift in the financial industry toward more inclusive, relationship-driven banking, especially for women.
With its focus on financial education, mentorship, and personalized service, the bank is positioning itself as a valuable resource. As it grows, its success will be measured not just by its financial performance but by the impact it has on the clients and businesses it serves.
The direct quotes in this article are credited to the publications ColumbusCEO and Women World.
