Mechanics Bank Sponsors 49er Festival Small Business Marketplace
- Yosemite Chamber
- Sep 11
- 2 min read
Like many other historic rural towns, our area’s small businesses are the heart of our community, providing jobs, supporting tourism, and fueling our local economy. Banking has been present here since Wells Fargo & Co opened an office in the Gamble Block in Big Oak Flat in the early 1850’s and then, as now, having a strong banking relationship is one of the most critical tools in a small business’s toolbox.
While the financial needs of small businesses have changed dramatically since the Gold Rush, Mechanics Bank, founded in 1905 to serve railroad workers, shipbuilders, and immigrants on the West Coast, has a keen understanding of today’s small business banking needs. With so much of our local economy fueled by small businesses, Mechanics Bank is perfectly aligned for our community’s banking needs, and the perfect sponsor of the 49er Festival Marketplace, where every vendor is a locally-owned small business.
A just-completed merger with HomeStreet Bank bumped Mechanics Bank’s financial strength to more than $23 billion in assets with 166 retail branches throughout the West Coast. This exciting move gives our local bankers a strong portfolio of competitive products and personalized small business services, like payroll services, merchant services, business credit cards, equipment financing and more…all designed to support growth and long-term success for businesses or all sizes.
Mechanics Bank is currently offering a Small Business Line of Credit Promotion up to $250,000 with a rate of Prime – 1%. They are also a source of Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, an alternative to conventional loans which typically offer more flexible terms, often with lower down payments and longer repayment terms.
In an environment where most small businesses are family-owned, personal banking and wealth management are also key. Mechanics has Special Offers for Individuals and Families running through October 31st. New Consumer Platinum Cardmembers can take advantage of an exclusive offer of 0% introductory APR for 21 billing cycles. Savings accounts can be opened at age 5 and checking accounts are available for minors age 14 and older, both with a parent or guardian. What better time than now to help the kids and grands prepare to manage their financial futures?
Entrenched in the Mechanics culture is community. When they’re not delivering top-notch service to their clients, they’re volunteering in their communities. Mechanics Bank employees support scores of community-based organizations by contributing thousands of volunteer hours each year. In 2025 alone, the Groveland Branch has contributed over $10,000 to strengthen the impact of our local nonprofits. Look for Branch Manager Michelle Mecredy and members of the team volunteering as FESTIVAL CASHIERS and be sure to thank them for all they do for us!
