EVANSVILLE, IND. – Old National Bank, in partnership with the Indiana Fever, today announced the launch of the 2nd annual Small Business Assist Program to spotlight and support outstanding small businesses across Indiana.
The program invites Indiana residents to nominate their business, or a deserving small-business owner, for a chance to be recognized and receive financial support. The Small Business Assist Program celebrates local businesses that are making a positive impact in their communities while elevating their stories statewide.
“This initiative reflects our shared belief that meaningful impact starts locally,” said Rafael Sanchez, Old National Indianapolis Market President. “By uplifting small businesses, we’re helping build a stronger, more resilient Indianapolis for the long term.”
Program highlights include:
- Open nominations for Indiana‑based small businesses
- Selection of finalists featured throughout the season
- On‑court recognition during an Indiana Fever home game
- Indiana Fever game tickets for selected businesses
- A social media spotlight video highlighting each finalist
- A $5,000 grand prize, awarded to one selected business
“Small Hoosier businesses bring the same grit, dedication and teamwork that we cultivate every day in Gainbridge Fieldhouse,” said Indiana Fever Chief Operating Officer and General Manager Amber Cox. “We’re proud to work with Old National Bank to celebrate these business owners as they all continue to grow and make an impact in their local communities.”
Finalists are recognized for their contributions to Indiana’s local economy and communities, with the grand prize intended to help advance their business goals.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities, creating opportunity, fueling the local economy and bringing people together,” said Old National Bank Chief Marketing Officer Jim Stadler. “We are excited to once again partner with the Indiana Fever on the Small Business Assist Program and help these small business owners across the state expand their impact, grow their business and continue to strengthen the communities they call home.”
For more information or to nominate a small business, go to https://fever.wnba.com/smallbusinessassist.
ABOUT OLD NATIONAL
Old National Bancorp (NASDAQ: ONB) is the holding company of Old National Bank. Old National is a commercial bank headquartered in the Midwest and serves clients primarily in the Midwest and Southeast. With approximately $72 billion of assets and $37 billion of assets under management, Old National ranks among the top 25 banking companies headquartered in the United States. Founded in 1834, Old National provides consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, and capital markets services, and supports community initiatives in its footprint. For more information and financial data, please visit Investor Relations at oldnational.com. In 2025, Points of Light named Old National one of “The Civic 50” — an honor recognizing community-minded companies in the United States.
ABOUT THE INDIANA FEVER
The Indiana Fever were announced as an expansion franchise in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) in June 1999 and began play during the 2000 season. In 2012, led by Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings, the team won its first WNBA Championship. Last season, the Fever won the 2025 WNBA Commissioner’s Cup Championship and later advanced to the 2025 WNBA Playoff Semifinals – the team’s furthest postseason run since 2015.
To learn more about the Fever, purchase tickets or join the season ticket priority waitlist, visit FeverBasketball.com. The team can also be followed across all social media platforms including YouTube , Instagram, Facebook, X, and TikTok.
ABOUT PACERS SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Pacers Sports & Entertainment is the corporate identity exemplified by the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, Noblesville Boom, Pacers Foundation, Inc., and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Its team of inspired and dedicated employees promises to deliver quality entertainment and unparalleled service.
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