Owning a small business shapes the way Morano works with Bravera clients. "My experience as a business owner enables me to relate closely to other entrepreneurs and appreciate the ups and downs of the business cycles, as well as their impact on personal finances and risk decisions," Morano said. Through it all, Morano's experience on both sides of the counter helps him build trusted relationships and better support the success of local businesses.
If you would like to learn more about Annie's Tap House, click here.
For Chad Hasche, a business banking officer from Bravera's Bismarck Town Centre branch, supporting small businesses is rooted in a family legacy that's spanned generations. Through Hasche Properties, Hasche helps provide safe, convenient, affordable and comfortable housing in Bismarck with 42 multifamily apartment units.
By understanding the realities business owners face, Hasche is able to help small business customers move forward with confidence. "I understand how having to make business decisions directly impacts your bottom line," Hasche said. His involvement with the Bismarck-Mandan Apartment Association also keeps him connected with other local business owners, highlighting the relationship-driven approach he brings to banking.
Erin Townsend, regional business banking lead at Bravera's Great Falls branch, brings firsthand small business experience to every relationship. She is the co-owner of Hempl’s Bakery, Great Falls’ oldest scratch bakery, carrying forward a family legacy rooted in quality, neighborhood connection and community pride.
As a small business co-owner herself, Townsend understands the emotional and financial investment that goes into operating a small business. "That insight helps me ask better questions, offer more practical financial guidance and build trust quickly," Townsend said. She said that this shared understanding leads to stronger relationships and better outcomes for both the customer and the bank itself.
If you would like to learn more about Hempl's Bakery, click here.
Grounded in family entrepreneurship, intern Trey Larimer brings a thoughtful, people-first approach to his role at Bravera's Killdeer branch. In 2023, Larimer's father opened 3-2 Custom Creations, a business that creates custom golf ferrules, a small, typically black, tapered collar or sheath located between the golf club head's hosel and the saft.
Being part of a small business has allowed Larimer to develop a more customer-first approach, from meeting new people on the golf course to sharing the story behind the product. Larimer said, "The growth in my sociability helps me at work because I can create a more friendly and helpful atmosphere for the customer." Larimer's experience and people-first mindset reflect Bravera's commitment to strong relationships and community connection.
If you would like to learn more about 3-2 Custom Creations, click here.
Based at Bravera’s Minot branch, mortgage banking manager Jordan Wald oversees mortgage banking operations across the organization, bringing firsthand small business experience to the customers he serves. Wald is part owner of The Meat Company, a friends‑ and family‑owned retail business that has served the Minot community since 2010. Specializing in fresh‑cut USDA choice or higher meats, house‑made sausages, jerky and locally sourced products, The Meat Company prides itself on being a one‑stop shop for high‑quality foods while supporting local producers and fellow small businesses throughout the region.
That ownership experience shapes how Wald approaches relationships at Bravera. “Being a small business owner engrains in you the need to provide the best service and advice possible in every interaction,” Wald said. “Each customer is valuable and earning their trust matters.” Wald's experience adds practical perspective that strengthens the way Bravera serves customers.
If you would like to learn more about The Meat Company, click here.