Aqua-Tots Grows with SBA Loan from BayFirst

July 9, 2021

When Lindsay and David Leary moved to Florida, they noticed a lack of water safety resources available in the area and decided to do something about it.  Lindsay’s mom, Annie Rosman, had been talking about opening a swim school for years. So when the opportunity presented itself, they decided to take the plunge.

With David’s background in operations, Lindsay’s experience in early elementary education and Annie’s passion for the cause, they found the perfect business venture and got to work opening the 115^th Aqua-Tots location in the world – but only the second in Florida.  Aqua-Tots teaches babies and children from 4 months to 12 years old how to swim and feel confident in the water. It also provides private lessons and work with children with special needs. 

Like many small business owners, once they decided to pursue their dream, they knew they would need a little help to get started.  They chose to take out an SBA loan through BayFirst because they wanted a community bank they could trust.

“One of the cool parts about working with BayFirst is the location and the community aspect.  It resounded well with us,” David said.
 
The SBA loan from BayFirst helped fund the purchase of the location and build out of its indoor pool. With the help of our VP of SBA Lending, Mike Giasone, the Learys saw their dream become a reality, even in the middle of a pandemic.

“It was easy.  Mike understood our business and saw the quality that we were trying to bring.  We felt like we were taken care of throughout the process,” David added.

We are so proud to have supported such a great community business that will be valued by many. Water safety is so important, especially in Florida.  With the help of this SBA loan, the Learys are now able to help more children, provide parents with peace of mind and save lives.

Ready to open your dream business?  Call today to learn more about how an SBA loan could help you jump right in and make a splash, too!