May’s Small Business Month celebrates the entrepreneurs who take risks, build from the ground up and strengthen their communities along the way. It also serves as a reminder that behind many successful businesses are strong partnerships, both personal and professional, that make growth possible. In Ocala, Lummie and Connie Rimes are a testament to what can happen when the right people, and the right bank, come together at the right time.
Liftco, LLC’s story did not begin overnight. Lummie and Connie Rimes each began their careers in the forklift industry in the early 1990s, working at separate dealerships and building their experience independently. They met in 2014, when Connie joined the dealership where Lummie was already working. From there, they spent years working side by side, deepening their industry knowledge and developing a strong professional partnership. Over time, that partnership grew into a shared vision—one rooted in common values, mutual respect and a natural ability to work together—shaping not only their careers, but also the life they would go on to build together.
After nearly three decades in the industry, they decided it was time to take a leap of faith and build something of their own. In 2021, they launched Liftco, LLC, building the business from the ground up with their expertise, determination and a single service truck running out of their garage. Connie managed everything from operations to administration, while Lummie worked tirelessly in the field. Long days and nights were the norm, but they kept going, driven by the belief that failure simply was not an option.
What began as a one-truck operation, quickly expanded. Within a year, Liftco grew its team, hiring additional technicians and building a reputation for reliability and service. As the business continued to scale, so did the challenges. Increased demand brought the need for more space, capital and more strategic decision-making.
After leasing a space with plans to purchase, Lummie and Connie found themselves needing a banking partner who truly understood their vision, which ultimately led them to Cogent Bank.
From the start, the relationship was built on responsiveness and trust. Cogent took the time to understand their business and stepped in to help finance their building and establish a line of credit, giving Liftco the flexibility needed to manage cash flow and continue growing.
With Cogent’s support, Liftco was able to scale more strategically, growing into a team of 18 employees and expanding its presence across the Ocala region.
Beyond business success, Liftco, represents something even more meaningful: a family legacy. Two of their four children are now part of the company, bringing new ideas, energy and innovation to the business. Together, Lummie and Connie are not just building a business. They are creating a foundation for generational prosperity, passing down the knowledge and resilience it takes to succeed.
Small Business Month reminds us that the strongest businesses are built on trust, determination and collaboration. For Liftco, the partnership between Lummie and Connie was the first step. Finding a banking partner in Cogent Bank helped take that vision even further.
Because when the right partnerships come together, businesses do not just grow, they thrive, creating lasting impact for families, communities and future generations.
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