For more than 90 years, Suncoast Credit Union has been guided by a simple yet powerful philosophy: People Helping People. That mission comes to life every day through a steadfast commitment to improving the financial well‑being of individuals and businesses while investing in the communities where members live and work to create long‑term, sustainable economic impact.
Gilene Musah launched Suncoast’s Microenterprise Development Program to support startups and microbusinesses. She later continued that work on a broader scale as a Business Relationship Manager within the Commercial Services team. Throughout that journey, she has helped business members navigate growth at every level – from foundational banking and microloans to Suncoast’s sophisticated treasury management tools and commercial lending solutions.
Now serving as an Economic Development Officer, Gilene blends her background in business development with a strong commitment to community engagement. Gilene focuses on building meaningful partnerships across Florida to address critical needs and support long‑term community resilience. Whether advancing affordable housing efforts, fostering public‑private collaboration, or creating pathways for local investment, her work centers on driving measurable, purpose‑driven progress. Gilene also contributes her leadership and insights as a member of the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator Leadership Council, helping guide the program’s strategic direction and support for emerging local entrepreneurs.
As a Community Partner of the Chamber’s Tampa Bay Business Accelerator, Suncoast’s support reflects a long-standing dedication to local business growth, regional advocacy, and economic development. With more than 80 branches statewide, Suncoast remains focused on meeting members where they are and evolving to serve their needs.
“Suncoast shares in the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator’s mission of helping small businesses scale and achieve sustainable growth,” Gilene says. “When entrepreneurs and community members come together with a shared purpose, real impact happens. That spirit of connection is why Suncoast continues to support this program—and the Tampa Bay community as a whole.”
Suncoast is proud to celebrate entrepreneurs whose work exemplifies the innovation and drive that powers the region’s small‑business community. Among them are two Tampa Bay Business Accelerator participants whose stories showcase Suncoast’s impact beyond traditional banking.
Elevating Local Service Excellence: T-Fat’s Auto Spa
A former Tampa Bay Buccaneers athlete turned entrepreneur, TJ Fatinikun brings the same discipline, precision, and standard of excellence from the field into T-Fat’s Auto Spa, an elevated automotive care company focused on preserving and protecting high-value vehicles.
More than detailing, T-Fat’s Auto Spa specializes in paint correction, ceramic coatings, paint protection film (PPF), and premium maintenance programs designed to preserve vehicles as long term assets.
As a Suncoast business member, TJ has built a strong financial foundation with a partner that aligns with his operational standards and growth vision. With dependable banking solutions in place, he has streamlined operations, strengthened cash flow, and can stay focused on delivering a refined, hospitality driven client experience.
Through his involvement with the Tampa Bay Business Accelerator, TJ continues to expand his impact, growing not only his company, but also pouring into mentorship and leadership development through his G.I.F.T.E.D. framework. His mission is to build lasting legacies through business, mentorship, and community impact.
“We don’t just detail vehicles, we protect assets and elevate the ownership experience. Everything we do is rooted in the G.I.F.T.E.D. mindset,” TJ says. “Precision, consistency, and a standard our clients can trust long term.”
Building Stability and Solutions: True Value America & Water Damage Repair
For Chris Cunningham, entrepreneurship has been a steady climb built on persistence, hard work, and strong relationships. As a Suncoast business member since 2019, Chris has relied on accessible, transparent banking solutions that have supported him at every stage of his business growth. What started with a microloan eventually expanded into a commercial loan as his operations evolved – giving him the financial flexibility to invest where it mattered most.
That growth began with a clearly defined purpose. From the start, Chris knew exactly what he wanted his businesses to stand for.
“When Dry 24 Water Restoration LLC and True Value America were initially established, I wanted to create a business with a clear mission statement: to help and serve our customers and clients.”
That mission became the foundation for how the companies operate and how decisions are made, ensuring service and trust are prioritized at every level.
As the business grew, having a financial partner he could rely on became just as important as access to capital.
“Trust is a fundamental aspect of any relationship, and the banking industry is no exception,” Chris said. “Suncoast Credit Union established trust with me over the years by consistently being transparent about fees and rates, providing excellent customer service, and offering personalized business credit solutions and services.”
With a mission driven approach and a trusted financial partner, Chris continues to build stable, service focused businesses that are positioned for long term success.
Shaping a Stronger Future for Tampa Bay and Beyond
As Florida’s largest credit union, Suncoast Credit Union remains committed to building meaningful relationships that extend far beyond everyday banking. By investing in people, supporting local businesses, and strengthening partnerships, such as with the Tampa Bay Chamber, Suncoast is helping create stronger financial futures and more resilient communities for generations to come.
Through the Suncoast Credit Union Foundation, the organization turns everyday transactions into meaningful change. Every time a member uses a Suncoast card, four cents are donated to the Foundation - totaling more than $61 million contributed to programs supporting children’s education, health, and emotional well‑being.
For business owners and entrepreneurs, Suncoast offers comprehensive financial solutions designed to support growth - from startups and microenterprises to established companies. Commercial lending, treasury management, flexible deposit options, and the Microenterprise Development Program provide practical tools for expansion, cash‑flow management, and long‑term planning.
Complementing those services, Suncoast’s Workplace Banking Program brings financial wellness resources directly to employees, reinforcing financial confidence at both the personal and organizational level.
Learn more about Suncoast’s commitment to members, businesses, and the region at Suncoast.com.
Membership qualifications and account opening required for all products and services. Minimum credit and risk score may be required to qualify for products and services.
