Cape & Coast Bank Announces Future Leaders Scholarship

Application process now open for students in Barnstable County

Cape & Coast Bank has launched its Future Leaders scholarship program and is now accepting applications from Cape Cod high school seniors graduating this spring.

Cape & Coast Bank will award up to four, one-time, $2,500 scholarships to high school seniors residing in and enrolled at Barnstable County schools who plan on attending a two– or four-year accredited college or university. Seniors attending a post-graduate vocational or trade school are also eligible.

The scholarship program has been established to provide financial assistance to students who show leadership acuity through formal roles like athletics or student government, or demonstrate leadership qualities including integrity, collaboration, accountability and a dedication to community service and improvement.

“Cape & Coast Bank is proud to introduce the Future Leaders Scholarship as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting education and investing in the long-term success of our local community,” said Cape & Coast Bank President and CEO Erik Porter. “We look forward to a robust response to the application process and welcome the opportunity to assist high school seniors who are destined the be the next generation of impactful leaders on Cape Cod.”

The simple online application process includes a questionnaire, providing a list of school or community activities, writing a short essay submission and supplying one letter of recommendation from a non-family member.

Interested students can visit our website to apply, and all applications will be considered based on academic performance, participation in leadership roles or demonstration of leadership qualities. The deadline to apply for the Cape & Coast Bank Future Leaders Scholarship is April 30, 2026.

Cotuit Fresh Market: A Story of Growth and Partnership 

With a century of serving as an integral part of Cape Codders’ lives, Cape & Coast Bank has cultivated a profound understanding of their clients’ needs. 

A full-service bank that supports personal banking as well as commercial banking endeavors, the bank has grown through the years alongside the changing population and burgeoning businesses that serve this thriving community. 

Headquartered in Hyannis the bank has been the backbone of countless business success stories providing steadfast support to local entrepreneurs, helping them identify and seize unique opportunities that have fostered growth and prosperity within the Cape’s business community. 

Case in point: Cotuit Fresh Market, a unique local entity that serves as the hub the quaint village. They have also made a name for themselves for their quality and array of culinary and grocery staples, which have made the market a destination for locals and visitors alike. 

An old-fashioned approach and sensibility has been proved for generations, and most recently Megan and Seth Burdick, who purchased the business in 2019, understand the importance of delivering every day to meet their customers’ expectations. 

Cotuit Fresh Market is the kind of place where you’re treated like family, even when you are the head of a community bank, as was the case for President Lisa Oliver who is a frequent shopper. Conversations between Lisa and Megan led to an introduction to Allyson Brainson, First Vice President, Small Business Relationship Manager. 

For Allyson, working with Megan is like a partnership: Megan bounces ideas off her, and Allyson walks through the options the bank has to make it happen. “It is a true partnership, it is not just one way,” Allyson says. “We’re both working together to get to the best results.” Clearly the partnership is working as Cotuit Fresh Market recently launched their fourth expansion with the opening of a new location in Mashpee Commons in the spring of 2024. 

Meet the Local Business Owners We’re Proud to Serve

From Dreams to Doorsteps 

The People Behind Cape Cod’s Favorite Businesses 

It takes a special kind of person to run a small business here on the Cape.  

A person who has an idea, a vision, and a dream. Who is willing to put in the hours, the effort, and the energy. Who understands the importance of community, the power of commitment, and the value of service.  

At Cape & Coast Bank, we’re thankful for these special entrepreneurs for helping make the Cape such a great place to live. And, for us, it’s a privilege to be their financial partner, providing guidance and helping them achieve greater success. We’re proud of our business clients and are thrilled to share a few of their stories: 

Cape Cod Nail 

Sarah Mason’s creative journey led her to open a mobile nail salon and launch a line of vegan, cruelty-free nail polishes. Sarah’s sense of humor and love of the Cape comes through with each bottle. Have you tried “Did the Rotary Confushcia?” and “Kelp Wanted”? 

Sarah transformed into brick-and-mortar salon in Mashpee Commons. “In the beginning, I had so many questions about grants, loans, and finances. I’m a nail technician, not a financial expert, so having (The Coop’s) support was invaluable.” 

Her advice for aspiring business owners? Believe in community over competition by networking with other businesses because there’s room for everyone.  

Split Milk Tattoo 

For the past 20 years, Mark Corliss has perfected his craft. But unlike most artists, his canvases come to him. In fact, they make appointments up to a year in advance. 

Mark specializes in body tattoos based on Japanese art, and he relishes working with his clients to create something unique for them. 

Mark owns Spilt Milk Tattoo at 48 Route 28 in West Yarmouth, a landmark because of the building’s distinctive treasure chest shape. Inside, Mark has created an inviting, modern art gallery with plenty of space for himself and guest artists.  

Plus, his studio is next to another favorite: Old Kings Coffeehouse. Mark and his wife, Kate, opened the coffeehouse in 2019. Today, the year-round coffeehouse thrives serving locals and visitors alike. 

Stage Stop Candy 

For Josh Fedele, chocolate-making runs in the family. 

He grew up helping his father in his candy stores, and while they were making a name on the South Shore, Ray and Donna Hebert were building up Stage Stop Candy in Dennis Port. Fast forward to 2017 –  The Heberts were looking to retire, and they called the Fedeles. 

Josh and Mandi jumped at the chance, and today run the shop with their children, Stevie and Beki. They love the tradition of chocolate making but are always ready to embrace something new. 

With a push from Stevie and Beki, they started offering freeze-dried candies. They take a traditional candy, such as Skittles, and transform them into something new, changing the flavor and texture. The line has quickly become a fan favorite. 

While visiting the store is a sweet experience, Josh and Mandi have broadened their reach with online ordering and curbside pickup. Plus, they offer a rewards program! 

At Cape & Coast Bank, our business banking team is inspired by the stories of Sarah, Mark, Josh and Mandi and the stories of so many others every day. We’re proud to be part of entrepreneurs’ journey – offering expert guidance, attention they deserve, and products they need – as they build something meaningful for our community. 

To learn how we can help your business, please visit our website at capeandcoastbank.com or give us a call at 508.568.3400.