Background
Established as a certified development company in 1986 by the U.S. Small Business Administration, Wakarusa Valley Development promotes economic development in the state of Kansas by lending to new and growing businesses.
For over 20 years, we have been assisting small business owners finance their business needs, start-ups and expansions through the SBA 504 and 7(a) Programs. The SBA 504 Loan Program is designed to assist small businesses with their expansion plans by providing 20 and 10 year fixed, low-interest rate loans for the purchase of real estate and large equipment. In addition, Wakarusa Valley Development works with area banks and small businesses who seek funding under the SBA 7(a) Loan Guaranty Program by providing packaging services and technical assistance.
Staff
Troy Roberts, Executive Director
Troy Roberts is the Executive Director of Wakarusa Valley Development, Inc. His primary focus is the 504 Loan Program, underwriting, marketing, and packaging of 7(a) Loans. Previously, he worked as the Director of Conventions & Sports for the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce where he focused on economic development through travel and tourism.
A Kansas native, Troy is a graduate of Washburn University with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree and a Masters of Science in Education degree from the University of Kansas. He and his wife, Kirsten, have a son, Ben and a daughter, Ella, which they enjoy raising in Lawrence, KS. He enjoys spending quality time with his family and participating in various sporting and outdoor activities.
Contact Troy at troberts@wakarusavalley.org or (785) 749-7600.
Liz Cuevas, Loan Closer / Portfolio Manager
Liz is the Loan Closer and Portfolio Manager for Wakarusa Valley Development, Inc. Her focus is primarily 504 Loan closing and managing the loan portfolio. Liz brings with her nearly 7 years of banking experience. Having been a teller, assistant branch manager, account operations clerk, and loan operations clerk, Liz has a strong understanding for how the financial system works.
Liz was born and raised in Lawrence and loves the local community. She enjoys spending time with her family and attending various sporting events.
Contact Liz at lcuevas@wakarusavalley.org or (785) 749-7600.
