Financing
53 banks, CDFIs, and government-backed programs offering financing tailored to diverse-owned businesses. Compare loan amounts, interest rates, eligibility, and which certifications each lender accepts at underwriting.
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Small Business Loans
Loan amount: $500 - $500K
Small Business Lending
Business Loans
Small Business Loans
Small Business Lending
Loan amount: $1K - $500K
FAQ
Diversity lending refers to specialized financing programs designed to support businesses owned by underrepresented groups including minorities, women, veterans, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities. These programs often offer more flexible terms, lower rates, or reduced collateral requirements to help diverse businesses access capital.
A Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) is a specialized financial institution focused on serving underserved communities and businesses. CDFIs often provide loans to diverse businesses that may not qualify for traditional bank financing, with more flexible underwriting, smaller loan amounts, and business support services.
Most diversity lenders verify your certification status at underwriting. Some programs accept self-certification of diverse ownership, but the more attractive rates and terms typically require third-party certification (NMSDC, WBENC, NGLCC, NaVOBA, Disability:IN). Government-backed programs like SBA loans have their own eligibility criteria that don't require these certifications.
Loan amounts vary widely. CDFI microloans start at $500 to $50,000. SBA loans range from $500 up to $5.5 million. Major bank diversity programs can provide credit lines and term loans from $100,000 to several million dollars for qualified businesses with established revenue.
Before you borrow
Most diversity lenders require an active certification on file at underwriting. The certification quiz checks which programs you qualify for, then matches them to the lenders that recognize each one.