Pair of startup banks in region raise $65 million to attack market

The market for new banks in Florida and nationwide is exceedingly dry. A pair of ambitious bankers hope to make it rain with some new entries.

Stefania Pifferi. Bill Blevins is helping to launch Fort Myers-based Gulf Coast Business Bank, the first Southwest Florida community bank in at least 12 years.
Stefania Pifferi. Bill Blevins is helping to launch Fort Myers-based Gulf Coast Business Bank, the first Southwest Florida community bank in at least 12 years.
  • Finance
  • Share

Kevin Darmody flatly admits it: when he tells someone he’s part of a team opening a bank, “people question if we have all our marbles.”

 

Continue reading your article
with a Business Observer subscription.
What's included:
  • ✓ Unlimited digital access to BusinessObserverFL.com
  • ✓ E-Newspaper app, digital replica of print edition
  • ✓ Mailed print newspaper every Friday (optional)
  • ✓ Newsletter of daily business news
Subscribe

Already subscribed? Sign in.

Latest News

  • May 9, 2026
Tampa tower's new owner leases 78,000 square feet of space
  • May 9, 2026
Fort Myers United Way leader exits, organization names interim CEO
  • May 8, 2026
Il Panificio opens new Main Street restaurant
  • May 8, 2026
358 affordable housing units under construction in Fort Myers

Sponsored Content