Wilmington's business community is diverse, encompassing a range of industries from technology to construction to outdoor design. But whether it's managing growth, dealing with market changes or planning for the future, local entrepreneurs have one thing in common: they build with perseverance.
For True IP Solutions, East Coast Contracting and Backyard Specialist, sustainability is about more than just financial stability. It's about reinvesting in the community, earning customer trust and choosing partners who understand what it takes to grow long-term. Behind each of these companies is Southern Bank – providing consistency, tailored solutions and human leadership that supports longevity.
True IP Solutions: A technology company with staying power
True IP Solutions is a Wilmington-based telecommunications and IT company specializing in security solutions. When Albert Steed, president of True IP, decided it was time to reevaluate his banking relationships, he knew what he wanted: reliability.
The foundation of this trust is Southern's product mix and accessible advice. Services like treasury management, fraud detection, and ACH approvals have helped streamline day-to-day operations. More importantly, the relationship with his banking partner feels personal – a quality Steed recognizes in his own relationship with True IP’s customers. “People have my number, and I feel like I have the same thing with Southern right now,” Steed says.
East Coast Contracting: Growing through market cycles
East Coast Contracting has been building Wilmington's infrastructure for over 15 years, handling both private and municipal construction projects. Resilience, says its president, Jennifer Hobbs, has carried the company through downturns and transitions.
As ECC moved from private contracts to public tenders, Southern played a key role. The bank's loan support enabled ECC to meet guarantee requirements and win municipal contracts. Hobbs describes the relationship with banker Lenny Smith as a stable factor: “Any need we had, we always came to you, and you met it right away and helped us grow and be successful.”
Backyard Specialist: Building for families, supported by trust
Backyard Specialist is a family-owned design and installation company focused on pools, patios and outdoor living. Owner Jennifer Robbins says Southern's solutions — from business checks that earn interest to remote deposits — offer both value and convenience. But an important aspect of this growth is the support of a banker who feels part of her team.
She describes community banker Brad Merritt as reliable and trustworthy and emphasizes his interest in finding solutions that meet her company's needs. Whether it's bringing in additional members of the Southern team to assist or standing by to help address any challenges, Merritt's guidance is a constant in their banking relationship.
Robbins explains, “It's just a good feeling knowing that if I have a question or a problem, all I have to do is pick up the phone… and you'll respond quickly and help me figure it out.”
Built to last – together
From technological innovations to infrastructure to outdoor living, these Wilmington companies show that long-term construction requires more than just vision. It takes partners who are equally committed to growth, adaptability and community.
As Robbins puts it, “I can't believe you're all going to have 125 years…That makes me feel good as a customer because I know you're still going to be there.”
With entrepreneurs like Steed, Hobbs and Robbins driving the region forward – and Southern Bank at their side – Wilmington's business community is built to last.
Visit our website today to find out what Southern Bank can do for your business. You'll find reviews from business owners like you, explore account options, and get the personalized advice you need to move forward with confidence.
Southern Bank is a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern BancShares (NC), Inc. Headquartered in Mount Olive, North Carolina, the bank has over $4 billion in total assets and over 60 locations throughout eastern North Carolina and Virginia.