A Coleman Conversation: Banesco USA
May 20, 2026
Bob Coleman
Founder & Publisher
A Coleman Conversation: Banesco USA
In this week’s episode of A Coleman Conversation, Bob Coleman sits down with Cali Garcia-Velez, President and CEO of Banesco USA, alongside Elijiah Gray, Senior Vice President and SBA Market Executive, for an in-depth discussion on the bank’s rapid expansion into SBA lending and its unique position within the international trade finance market. Cali and Elijiah explain how Banesco USA is leveraging its strong commercial banking foundation, global footprint across Latin America and Europe, and newly acquired SBA platform to become a leading national SBA lender. The conversation also dives into the critical role export financing plays in helping American small businesses compete internationally, the economic forces shaping South Florida’s business environment, the impact of tariffs on importers, and why speed, creativity, and relationship-driven service are essential in today’s SBA lending landscape.
Topics Covered:
✓ Banesco USA’s strategy for building a national SBA lending platform following its acquisition of a large SBA servicing portfolio and SBA operations team
✓ Why Banesco USA’s deep experience in Latin America, the Caribbean, Spain, and Portugal positions the bank as a strong partner for companies engaged in global trade
✓ The growing importance of export financing in helping U.S. small businesses remain competitive in international markets while managing working capital demands
✓ Insights into South Florida’s unique economy and the long-term impact of foreign capital flowing into the region from Latin America and Europe
✓ Banesco USA’s expansion plans in Puerto Rico and how the bank hopes to bring its SBA expertise to underserved growing businesses on the island
✓ Why agility, personalized banking relationships, certainty of execution, and fast turnaround times are central to Banesco USA’s SBA lending philosophy
✓ The importance of maintaining strong communication with borrowers, referral partners, and brokers throughout the SBA loan process to ensure successful closings