Stratus Financial, a leader in student pilot financing and aviation lending solutions, has earned national recognition by ranking #113 on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. This milestone highlights the company’s rapid growth, innovative lending programs, and mission to help aspiring pilots overcome financial barriers and launch their aviation careers.
Aviation-focused lender achieves national recognition for rapid growth, innovation, and commitment to student pilots.
Irvine, CA – August 12, 2025 — Stratus Financial, a leading provider of student lending solutions for aspiring pilots, today announced it has been ranked #113 on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing private companies. This milestone recognizes Stratus Financial’s exceptional revenue growth and its mission-driven approach to helping students achieve their aviation dreams.
The Inc. 5000 list, compiled annually by Inc. magazine, honors the most dynamic private businesses in the U.S. that have demonstrated exceptional growth over the past three years. Companies on the 2025 list represent a wide spectrum of industries, showcasing innovation, resilience, and leadership in an ever-changing business environment.
Since its founding, Stratus Financial has redefined how aviation students access funding for their education, bridging the gap between talent and opportunity in an industry facing historic pilot shortages. By combining industry expertise with personalized financing options, Stratus Financial has helped thousands of students begin their journey to the cockpit.
“This recognition is a direct reflection of the dedication of our entire team, our unwavering commitment to our borrowers, and the trust our flight school partners place in us,” said Anthony Geraci, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Stratus Financial. “We started Stratus with the belief that financial barriers should never keep passionate, capable students from becoming pilots. Landing at #113 on the Inc. 5000 is proof that mission-driven companies can achieve both impact and growth.”
Stratus Financial’s growth has been fueled not only by its unique approach to student lending but also by strategic partnerships with top flight schools nationwide, innovative lending programs, and a commitment to customer service that goes far beyond the loan process.
“We’re incredibly honored to be recognized among the most successful private companies in America,” said Brandon Martini, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Stratus Financial. “This achievement is more than a ranking—it’s a testament to the fact that when you combine vision, hard work, and a relentless focus on the needs of your customers, extraordinary results follow. We’re just getting started.”
As the aviation industry continues to grow, with airlines facing an unprecedented demand for new pilots, Stratus Financial remains at the forefront of providing tailored financial solutions to help students launch their careers. The company plans to expand its reach in 2025 and beyond, offering new programs and resources to support pilots at every stage of their journey.
The complete results of the Inc. 5000, including company profiles and an interactive database, can be found at www.inc.com/inc5000.
About Stratus Financial
Stratus Financial provides tailored lending solutions to aspiring aviators, ensuring that the dream of flight remains within reach for students across the nation. Founded by pilots and financial experts, Stratus combines industry knowledge with flexible financing options to help students achieve their goals. Through strategic partnerships and an unwavering commitment to customer service, Stratus is helping shape the next generation of pilots. Learn more at www.stratus.finance.
Contact:
Lesley Boyd, CMO
Stratus Financial
(949) 406-4930
lesley@stratus.finance