A Conversation with Catrice Williams, CEO of Closeknit Connections, a Merchant Services Provider
- Brainz Magazine
- Jul 23
- 4 min read
Written by Tanisha Taylor, Financial & Life Coach
Tanisha Taylor is an inspirational leader in financial, life, and ministry wellness. Her journey, sparked by a childhood money encounter with her grandfather, has led her to a profound understanding of the impact of money on individuals' lives.
If you've ever felt like just another number in the payment processing game, you're not alone, and that's precisely why Closeknit Connections was created.
Catrice Williams, a proud native of Akron, Ohio, and Certified Payments Professional (CPP), Founder and CEO of Closeknit Connections, is on a mission: to change the merchant services industry from the inside out. With over two decades of experience, she's turning the focus back to what truly matters: relationships, integrity, and empowering growth.
Here's a down-to-earth, heart-to-business conversation with Catrice herself, designed for business owners, bankers, and partners who want more from their payments provider.
What inspired you to start Closeknit Connections?
You know, after 22 years in the Payments Industry, I saw too many good folks getting locked into bad deals, talking to call centers instead of industry experts, and not being educated about how their systems work or don't work for them. I got tired of watching that.
I started Closeknit Connections in 2023 right here in my hometown of Akron, Ohio, to be the change I wanted to see. Our entire foundation is built on advocacy, education, and trust. I don't just want to process your payments, I want to be part of your team, learning about your business and helping you grow. Every entity deserves to Experience Payments Excellence.
What makes Closeknit Connections different from other merchant service providers?
Three words: Relationships Over Transactions.
I know that sounds like a catchphrase, but for us, it's how we operate every single day. We take the time to learn about your goals, challenges, and how your business operates so we can provide you with customized, scalable, and future-focused solutions.
And let's be real: I'm not a sales rep chasing a quota. I'm a business owner, industry expert, and Certified Payments Professional the only one in Akron, and one of only ten in the state of Ohio. That means I know what I'm doing, and I care about doing it right.
What kind of businesses do you serve?
We serve all kinds of businesses locally and nationwide, retail stores, restaurants, non-profits, ecommerce stores, service providers, you name it. Whether you're just starting or running multiple locations, we've got you covered.
We also work closely with Financial Institutions, Sales Agents, ISOs, ISVs, Developers, and Affiliate Referral Partners to deliver dynamic, revenue-generating programs. If you need someone you can trust with your clients or want to expand your offerings, we're the right people.
What services does Closeknit Connections offer?
Whew, let me give you the rundown. Here's just a taste of what we bring to the table:
Credit/Debit/EBT Card Processing
Point of Sale (POS) Systems
Smart Terminal & Mobile Payments
Payment Gateways & Software Integrations
Electronic Invoicing & Check Services (eCheck)
Gift Cards & Loyalty Programs
Payment Card Industry (PCI) Compliance
Chargeback Dispute Management
Breach Assistance
Dual Pricing & Surcharging
True Daily Funding (yes, including weekends!)
Analytics & Reporting Tools
And that's just the beginning. We tailor every solution to fit your business and we're always on hand to train your team, answer your questions, and make sure your systems are doing what they're supposed to.
What's your approach to supporting financial institutions and referral partners?
We don't just "partner" we build together.
We've built strong relationships with over 300 Financial Centers and Professionals from Business Bankers and Commercial Bankers to Treasury Management Officers and Private Client Bankers. We know how to speak your language, train your team, and build out a personalized experience that drives real results.
Our program is built for transparency, performance, and trust so your clients stay happy, and your bank sees a return on investment.
And for Sales Agents, ISOs, ISVs, Developers, and Affiliate Referral Partners: we've walked that path, too. We offer flexible infrastructure, industry-leading support, and a referral program that pays. If you're looking for a partner that respects your hustle and has your back we're it.
What's it like to work with Closeknit Connections?
Think of us like your in-house payments team, without the extra payroll. From the first conversation, we're listening, strategizing, and building something with you not selling something to you. You'll get real talk, real support, and real results. You won't sit on hold for hours. You'll call, and someone who knows your name will pick up. That's the Closeknit experience.
How can a business get started with you?
Reach out. Seriously. Visit here, click "Contact Us," and we'll arrange a complimentary, no-pressure conversation. We'll learn about your business, your systems, and show you how we can help not sell you something you don't need.
We'd love to be your Advocate, Guide, and Team Member.
Final thoughts from Catrice
"I built Closeknit Connections on the values that raised me integrity, reliability, community, and a relentless drive to see others succeed. I've seen how the right relationship can completely change the direction of a business. That's what we're here to do: to be that relationship. So if you're ready for a partner that shows up, follows through, and truly has your best interest at heart welcome to the Closeknit family."
Experience payments excellence with closeknit connections
Based in Akron, OH | Serving businesses locally and nationwide
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Tanisha Taylor, Financial & Life Coach
Tanisha Taylor is an inspirational leader in financial, life, and ministry wellness. Her journey, sparked by a childhood money encounter with her grandfather, has led her to a profound understanding of the impact of money on individuals' lives. Her mission, 'Control your money relationship, 'is a testament to her dedication to helping others create healthy and sustainable relationships with money and business.
