Ask5: Empowering Communities with Keri Pratico, AVP, Senior Business Development Officer with Pursuit

Join us for an enlightening discussion with the AVP Senior Business Development Officer of a leading lending company, dedicated to assisting small businesses and fostering economic development in her community. We'll explore her journey, the pivotal role she plays in driving growth, and the strategies she employs to empower local businesses. Gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities within community development, and discover how effective business development can make a significant impact. This conversation is a must-watch for anyone interested in learning how to support and enhance their local economy.

Bio: Keri Pratico is an AVP, Senior Business Development Officer located in Pursuits Headquarters in Albany, NY. She earned a B.S. from Cornell University in 2004. Keri has over 17 years of experience working with small businesses. Her passion for assisting small businesses and economic development began with her role as Director of Business Development for Schenectady County. This knowledge allowed Keri to continue doing what she loved, both as Community Development Lending Officer for Community Loan Fund and Conventional Lending for NBT and Key Bank.

Keri also has first-hand experience running a small business that has allowed her to better understand and empathize with borrowers and business owners.

Keri found her home at Pursuit, whose mission matches her passion perfectly; To provide businesses with affordable small business loans and resources, so that they can reach higher, transform, and grow.

She is an advocate for women, minority, Veterans, and low-income individuals.

Through Pursuit, Keri is active in Junior Achievement, providing young people with essential financial knowledge. In her personal time, Keri volunteers as a STEM running coach for victims of Domestic Violence. Keri’s favorite role is Mom to her incredible 12-year-old son, Daniel. You’ll easily find her cheering him on at the lacrosse field as he defends the goal for the 2028 Albany Stags Team, hanging out in the lodge reading while watching him ski, or paddleboarding anywhere they can together. When Keri and Daniel aren’t on one of their amazing adventures, they enjoy hanging out at home with their two cats Stanley and Michelle and with their incredible family and friends.