Small Business Lending: Supporting Local Entrepreneurs
by Malinda Williams, CEO of Omaha 100 | omaha100.org
More than 30 years ago, Omaha 100 was formed to help build equality and equity in
homeownership throughout our community. Now, we are expanding our mission to
include small business lending, working to bring more equality and opportunity to the
business environment in and around Omaha.
According to The Kauffman Foundation's Capital Access Report, Black entrepreneurs
are three times less likely to have their loan requests approved than white
entrepreneurs. As a Community Development Financial Institution, Omaha 100 is
focused specifically on serving the underserved and funding opportunities that drive
social impact. Our clients are predominantly Black, Asian and Hispanic.
We are built on the belief that the American Dream is accessible for everyone. The key
is having the right support. The addition of wraparound services for education and an
extensive support system of seasoned business owners is one of the things that set us
apart from other financial institutions.
The pillars of our business lending program include:
Education
● Starting a business is a big step. Many elements come together to make it a
reality and funding is only one piece. In our work to provide equitable
opportunities to our clients, Omaha 100 offers numerous resources for
businesses just starting out or looking to grow.
Flexible Lending
● We can offer loans up to $250,000, ensuring the right amount for launching,
operating or growing your business. Fixed interest rates and flexible terms help
us tailor your loan to meet your unique needs. A recent award of $10.5 million
from the Nebraska Department of Economic Development – along with our
matching funds – means we are working to distribute $21 million to support small
businesses over the next 3 years in our community and Nebraska over the next
three years.
Technical Assistance
● Our position as a Community Development Financial Institution means we can
also provide technical assistance for those looking to start or grow a business.
Technical assistance encompasses things like accounting, legal services,
business planning, marketing and other critical aspects of running a successful
enterprise.
By focusing on providing access to capital for underserved populations, Omaha 100 is
contributing to the growth of the community and improved quality of life for everyone.
We have forged many positive relationships with nonprofit and financial partners over
the years, and helped thousands of first-time homebuyers achieve their dream of
owning a home. We are eager to bring these relationships into the equation to help build
more equality in small business lending.
To learn more about a loan for your small business, send us an email at
info@Omaha100.org, call (402) 342-3773 or visit us online at
www.omaha100.org/business-app