Uplift: They focus on relationship-based lending and providing capital and support to minority-owned businesses.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Sarah Halpern. President and CEO of the Business Consortium Fund (BCF) and Triad Investments. Here's a summary of the key points discussed: 🎙️ Episode Highlights 🌟 About BCF and CDFIs BCF is a nonprofit lender and a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). CDFIs are designated by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and exist to serve underserved communities. There are about 2,000 CDFIs across the U.S., working in small business and affordable housing sectors. 💼 Mission and Services BCF provides capital and support to minority-owned businesses, especially those with B2B models. They focus on relationship-based lending, helping clients through business cycles rather than writing off loans quickly. Since 1987, BCF has originated $228 million in loans and financed 950 minority business enterprises. 🧭 Application Process Applicants need to provide: Three years of tax returns Credit score Bank statements Cash flow analysis BCF emphasizes transparency and trust in the application process. 💡 Financial Advice for Entrepreneurs Know your industry – Understand the specific requirements of the sector you serve. Know your credit score – Monitor and improve it as needed. Don’t take on debt you can’t repay – Ensure your business cash flow can support loan repayment. 🤝 Community Engagement BCF relies heavily on word of mouth and community trust. They encourage early relationship-building, even before financing is needed. 📍 Location and Access BCF is physically based in New York but lends nationwide. Website: bcfcapital.com #SHMS #STRAW #BEST See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.