KeyBank Success Story: Luminary Electrical

Originally published by KeyBank September 2023.

Customer

Starting a business is a challenge in and of itself, but when you’re breaking into a male-dominated field like electrical contracting, the hurdles can seem even more daunting. With more than 15 years of experience Shawni Davis, the founder of Luminary Electrical, has not only taken this challenge head on but has managed to thrive and become an inspiration for women and minorities in her field. Based in Syracuse, New York, Shawni and her 11 employees have multiple contracts completed and more coming soon.

Challenge

One of the most significant challenges Shawni faced at the beginning was financing her business operations — specifically when it came to payroll. She had the contract work. Now, she needed a way to pay her employees. As a startup, obtaining financial support can be tough, especially for a young company in a competitive industry. When other banks couldn’t see her vision, KeyBank saw the light.

“KeyBank is literally just a phone call or an e-mail away. They’ve also helped me establish a high-interest money market account, which is something that I never even thought of.” – Shawni Davis, CEO and Founder of Luminary Electrical

Solution

Shawni’s introduction to KeyBank’s VP/Sr. Business Banking Relationship Manager Rachel Galusha marked a turning point. “As a bank, in my opinion, we need to support the small business operator and owner who is then supporting the local market with jobs,” said Rachel. With Rachel’s understanding of Luminary Electrical’s potential and its impact on job creation, KeyBank provided much-needed financial backing and guidance. This support enabled Shawni to fulfill contracts, invest in her team, and navigate the complexities of running a business.

Results

Through Luminary Electrical, Shawni is illuminating a path for women and minorities, proving that determination and a vision for change can lead to remarkable achievements. Her small business has recently secured contracts for the construction of the Buffalo Bills’ new stadium, the Corning Glass Museum, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and the New York State Thruway. Shawni says, “KeyBank is literally just a phone call or an e-mail away. They’ve also helped me establish a high-interest money market account, which is something that I never even thought of.” Earlier this year, Shawni was asked to speak to her community on behalf of her electrical union and introduced President Joe Biden to the stage.

To learn more, contact us or visit key.com/smallbiz.

To learn more about Luminary Electrical, visit luminarysyr.com.