Meet the CEO

Sherry Waner is the CEO of HelloBello, an innovative technology platform that simplifies complex lending. A leader in the economic development and entrepreneurial ecosystem-building fields, Sherry has used technology to amplify impact throughout her career – including building software applications for federal assistance programs, using technology-based solutions for solving inefficiencies in the lending processes, and creating data impact and measurement programs. Her deep knowledge of rural communities and the challenges they face for economic growth, combined with her technology and data expertise, has enabled Sherry to create innovative solutions to complex challenges.

Sherry has over 30 years of banking experience, specializing in finding creative ways to provide access to capital that assists small business start-ups and expansions. She has coached thousands of startups and small to medium-sized businesses across industries on financing, fundraising, employee-buyouts, acquisitions, strategy, scaling, and other business essentials. 

Prior to her role at HelloBello, Sherry served as Chief Development Officer (CDO) for First Southwest Bank, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) bank, and partner organization First Southwest Community Fund, a 501c-3 non-profit. During her time as CDO, Sherry led First Southwest Bank to become one of Colorado’s leading specialized lenders – now known for its innovative financing models nationally. Sherry was also instrumental in the formation and capacity building of the partner 501c-3 First Southwest Community Fund.

Sherry attended the Graduate School of Banking at the University of Colorado - Boulder. She holds various leadership positions locally and statewide, including Chair of the Colorado Minority Business Office Advisory Counsel, Counsel Member of the newly chartered Colorado Office of Financial Empowerment, and President of the Board of Directors for the Pagosa Springs Community Development Corporation.