Nicholas J. Bankston
Nick Bankston is a dedicated public servant and thoughtful leader on issues facing Columbus neighborhoods and economic growth. A proud graduate of East High School and The Ohio State University, Bankston is a lifelong Columbus resident who is determined to make an impact in his community.
As chair of the Small and Minority Business committee, Bankston has created an abundance of ways for business owners to not only network but take their business to the next level. In 2022, Councilmember Bankston spearheaded the Small Business Recovery Fund, resulting in $8,410,000 in grants awarded to 1,295 small businesses fighting to survive the pandemic. In 2023, in collaboration with the Department of Development, Bankston launched the Ground Floor Growth Initiative, aimed at assisting, and sustaining small, minority-owned businesses who are ready for brick-and-mortar. The initial group of businesses has successfully opened, helping to revitalize downtown, with ongoing efforts to partner with additional businesses in future phases. Also in 2023, Bankston worked with the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and the City Clerk’s Office to develop a new process to identify legislation containing city contracts with minority vendor participation. Additionally, in 2024, Bankston supported 39 small, minority-owned businesses by awarding over $131,825.00 in grants, helping them achieve their entrepreneurial goals.
Bankston also played a key role in establishing the collaboration between the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and the Columbus Urban League by issuing significant financial support of the Urban Business Connection Program, a program that provides Black businesses with free Columbus Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Bankston has also been able to champion a partnership with Experience Columbus, providing small business owners with free, year-long, support through many programs and apprenticeships.
Annually, he hosts blood drives with the American Red Cross and a City Hall Illumination Ceremony to bring awareness to Sickle Cell Disease. In 2024, Bankston surpassed the blood collection goal of 150 units, with each donation playing a vital role in supporting Sickle Cell patients in need.
Bankston chairs both the Finance and Economic Development & Small Business committees. Bankston and his wife, Habiba reside in the McCutcheon Crossing neighborhood in Northeast Columbus with their son, Xavier and are expecting another son this March.