The Story of Strategic Financial Solutions

In 2003, Larry Witzel set out to build something greater than a one-person operation—he envisioned a financial firm rooted in collaboration, integrity, and personalized service. With that vision, Strategic Financial Solutions (SFS) was born, evolving into a dynamic team that empowers clients with experienced guidance and tailored strategies.

But our story starts even earlier. In 1990, Larry responded to an ad in the Cedar Rapids Gazette, launching his career as a financial professional at Principal Financial Group. By 2001, the business had grown enough to add a second team member, and just two years later, SFS was officially founded—laying the foundation for a firm dedicated to independent, client-focused financial solutions.

From those early days, we’ve built a firm that thrives on meaningful connections and simplifying complex financial strategies. As we’ve grown, so has our ability to serve—expanding our team, our experience, and our reach:

1990 - Larry Witzel responds to an ad in the Cedar Rapids Gazette for a Financial Planner
2005 - Welcomed Bert McClintock as Vice President (firm grew to 5)
2008 - First expansion and remodel at 2nd Avenue SE, Cedar Rapids
2012 - Created our first Corporate Account Executive role (firm grew to 7)
2016 - Bert became a partner, and our team reached 10
2017 - Voted Coolest Place to Work in the Corridor by the CBJ
2018 - Added our third financial advisor
2019 - Voted Coolest Place to Work in the Corridor by the CBJ
2020 - Named Coolest Place to Work Again (firm grew to 15)
2021 - Voted Coolest Place to Work in the Corridor by the CBJ
2022 - Rebranded, moved to a new location, updated our logo, and transitioned to Commonwealth as our broker-dealer
2022 - Voted THE COOLEST PLACE to work in the Corridor by the CBJ
2025 - Continuing to grow and evolve with an eye toward the future

At SFS, we believe financial planning is more than numbers—it’s about people, purpose, and a plan. From day one, our mission has been to help individuals, families, and businesses navigate financial decisions with clarity and confidence.

And we’re just getting started.

2022 COOLEST PLACES TO WORK, created by SkyWalk Group. This award is based on survey results about workplace culture and not specific to financial services and does not imply an endorsement, recommendation, or reflect the performance of the advisor. No compensation is paid to be considered for the award. For more information, visit https://corridorbusiness.com/2022s-coolest-places-to-work-in-the-corridor/.

Our Mission 
A Team That
Understands You

At the core of our practice are four guiding principles: Leadership, Relationship, Creativity, and Independence. We lead with integrity, fostering relationships built on trust and empathy. Our creative solutions are tailored to the unique needs of each client, and our independence allows us to offer objective advice.

We believe in being more than financial advisors; we are strategic partners dedicated to helping you pursue your personal and family goals. Join us on this journey, where your aspirations are our priority, and together, we'll navigate the path to your financial future.

Contact Us 
Are You Ready To
Take Your First Steps?

Schedule a complimentary discovery meeting with us and get started on your journey.

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