Summary: 

EmVision Productions is an award-winning, Lynn-based storytelling and media production company founded by first-time entrepreneurs with a passion for uplifting less heard voices. And like many growing small businesses, EmVision needed a bank that understood their ambitions and could support them through the complexities of growing. Eastern Bank became that bank. 

With guidance from Eastern Bank and access to the SBA 504 loan program, EmVision purchased its own building, which changed everything about its trajectory – offering space for production, collaboration, and community at a scale the founders couldn’t have imagined initially. Today, EmVision is not only growing but also giving others the space to do the same. 

EmVision was recently named the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Massachusetts Microenterprise of the Year and a 2025 Small Business of the Year Honoree in Cultural Excellence by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce – testaments to its growing impact and work. 

Overview: 

Launching a business from scratch without prior experience can be daunting but finding the right people and programs can make all the difference. Very early on, EmVision’s leaders realized they needed to surround themselves with resources and mentors who could help them successfully grow their company. 

For EmVision Co-Founder Dr. Tariana V. Little, a turning point came in 2018 when EmVision participated in Interise's StreetWise MBA Program, their first formal business training program. Through this experience, the team was mentored by Dr. José Perez of Roads Consulting Group, who encouraged them to think bigger and more strategically about the company’s future. Soon, Tariana and Co-Founder Jonas Meyer were building a sustainable infrastructure for their company by setting business targets, structuring the finances, arranging tax and bookkeeping services, and creating better overall operating systems and efficiencies. 

Perez also later introduced EmVision to Eastern Bank, a relationship that would help EmVision achieve its ambitious goals. From that introduction, EmVision found more than just a bank – it found a community of local people who take the time to get to know them and understand their goals, and are committed to their success. 

“Other banks have branches; Eastern Bank has roots.” – Tariana V. Little, CEO & Co-Founder, EmVision Productions

The social impact media agency carries out its services by promoting an ecosystem for change through stories, and embedding a lot of heart in its work. With Eastern Bank's recommendation and tailored support, EmVision secured a SBA 504 loan that enabled it to purchase its own building in Lynn, Massachusetts, creating a milestone that transformed its business model. By owning its building, EmVision has been able to enhance its production by bringing people into a space that it controls and curates for interviews. And equally meaningful, the space has become a creative community hub and gathering place for other businesses, artists and nonprofits aligned to EmVision’s values. 

To help make it all happen, Eastern Bank provides the personalized service, financial products, community presence and local relationship team valued by EmVision. The EmVision team regularly turns to its bankers for support on managing finances effectively, navigating the loan process with confidence, and growing and achieving business success. What’s more, their bankers understand their community because they live and work in it as well. 

“From the start, Eastern saw our full vision. They supported us not only as clients but as people who want to use business to create community and purpose.” - Jonas Meyer, Creative Director & Co-Founder, EmVision Productions 

Eastern Bank’s expertise in SBA lending and dedication to community banking have made the relationship a natural fit. For EmVision, this relationship became a foundational piece of its ability to scale impactfully – one story at a time. 

In March 2025, EmVision was announced as the SBA’s Massachusetts Microenterprise of the Year, celebrating its commitment to storytelling, community building, and empowering underheard voices. And one month later in April 2025, it was named one of the Small Business of the Year Honorees in Cultural Excellence by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, highlighting EmVision’s company culture that centers equity and collaboration. 

As EmVision Productions continues to grow, its focus remains on expanding storytelling capabilities while staying rooted in its values. With Eastern Bank as its bank, EmVision is excited to take on new campaigns, build stronger relationships, and contribute even more to the local business community.

To learn more about how EmVision is building community through storytelling, visit www.em.vision. And to explore how Eastern Bank supports business owners like EmVision, visit our Small Business Banking page or speak with a local banker today. 

The opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of Eastern Bankshares, Inc., Eastern Bank, or any affiliated entities. Views and opinions expressed are current as of the date appearing on this material; all views and opinions herein are subject to change without notice. These views and opinions should not be construed as any specific recommendation. This material is for your private information and we are not soliciting any action based on it. The information in this content has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but its accuracy is not guaranteed. There is neither representation nor warranty as to the accuracy of, nor liability for any decisions made based on such information.

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