Columbia County Business Celebrates Growth During Small Business Month with Help from Local Credit Union

ST.HELENS, Ore. — May 15, 2025 — As communities across the country celebrate Small Business Month this May, Teyema’s Touch, an exterior cleaning business based in Columbia County, is thriving with support from InRoads Credit Union and the community. With a combination of resources, the business has been able to grow operations and contribute to the community's economic vitality.

“The support we’ve received from the local community has been incredibly heartwarming and truly the driving force behind our success,” said Victoria Teyema, co-owner of Teyema’s Touch. “We take great pride in enhancing the natural beauty of our community through our work, and we’re deeply grateful to fellow small businesses, InRoads Credit Union, and the many community members who continue to uplift and support us. Their encouragement and partnership mean everything as we continue to grow.”

Teyema’s Touch is one of the many small businesses across Columbia, Clatsop, Cowlitz, Multnomah and Washington counties that received a boost from InRoads Credit Union. In 2024, the credit union provided $6.4 million in small business loans and awarded $25,000 in small business grants. In addition to financial assistance, local entrepreneurs participated in hours of financial education with InRoads to help build long-term stability and success.

“Obtaining the right small business loan at the right time can be the fuel entrepreneurs need to write the next chapter of their business story,” said Nathan Cox, CEO of InRoads Credit Union. “With a solid business plan, that funding becomes a powerful tool for growth — not just for the business, but for the entire community.”

In addition to supporting small businesses, InRoads also directed nearly $160,000 to 52 schools and nonprofit organizations across the region in 2024. The credit union’s community investments help foster job creation, cultural enrichment and economic resilience throughout Oregon.

About InRoads Credit Union

Proud to be a not-for-profit member-owned financial cooperative, InRoads Credit Union was established in 1938 and holds over $360 million in assets. The community focused organization contributed nearly $160,000 to local nonprofits and community organizations in 2024, while also loaning nearly $6.4 million to small businesses. Membership is open to anyone who lives, works, attends school, volunteers, or worships in Columbia, Clatsop, Cowlitz, Multnomah and Washington Counties, along with immediate family who are existing InRoads members. In addition to its new Hillsboro branch, InRoads has branches in Scappoose, St. Helens and Rainier, Ore.