EFFINGHAM, Ill. – July 24, 2026 – Midland States Bank received the 2025 Illinois SBA 504 Third-Party 

Lender of the Year Award from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Illinois District Office during a 

recognition ceremony at the Bank’s Belvidere Main Office.

According to the SBA, the award recognizes Midland States Bank’s leadership in supporting small 

businesses through the SBA 504 Loan Program, helping business owners obtain long-term financing for 

commercial real estate, major equipment purchases and expansion projects that strengthen local 

economies.

Representatives from the SBA Illinois District Office presented the award to Midland leadership, 

recognizing the Bank’s commitment to expanding access to capital for Illinois businesses and its continued 

partnership in advancing economic development throughout the state.

“This recognition reflects our team’s commitment to helping Illinois businesses invest, grow and create 

jobs,” said Jeff Ludwig, Chief Executive Officer of Midland States Bank. “We’re grateful for our partnership 

with the SBA and for the trust our clients place in Midland States Bank as they pursue their business goals.”

The recognition reflects the collaborative efforts of Midland’s commercial banking, SBA lending, credit 

and operations teams, as well as the Bank’s partnerships with Certified Development Companies across 

Illinois.

The SBA 504 Loan Program provides long-term, fixed-rate financing that helps small businesses purchase 

owner-occupied commercial real estate, finance major equipment and support expansion projects that 

contribute to economic growth and job creation.

About Midland States Bancorp, Inc.

Midland States Bancorp, Inc. is a community-based financial holding company headquartered in 

Effingham, Illinois, and is the sole shareholder of Midland States Bank. As of June 30, 2026, the Company 

had total assets of approximately $6.70 billion, and its Wealth Management Group had assets under 

administration of approximately $4.78 billion. The Company provides a full range of commercial and 

consumer banking products and services, merchant credit card services, trust and investment 

management, insurance and financial planning services. For additional information, visit 

https://www.midlandsb.com/ or https://www.linkedin.com/company/midland-states-bank.

Contact:

Anna Strong

Marketing Manager

217-540-2838