LAGRANGE, Ga., Feb. 10, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- While many financial institutions slowed or paused during the federal government shutdowns, and others continue to scale back or exit government-guaranteed lending programs through the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Community Bank & Trust moved in the opposite direction. The bank accelerated, deploying capital, closing loans, and delivering reliable financing to small businesses and rural communities when access to credit was needed most.

The 125-year-old institution, which originated its first government-guaranteed loan in 1984, closed nine SBA loans totaling $19.56 million in the first month of 2026, delivering critical capital to small businesses at a time when traditional financing channels stalled.

"This performance came amid one of the most uncertain operating environments lenders have faced in years," said Jeremy Gilpin, CEO of Community Bank & Trust. "Our momentum sends a clear message: We ...