Breaking down barriers, building up communities. Access to affordable capital is a significant barrier for many aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those from historically marginalized communities. The Micro-lending Impact Investment Fund exists to help break down those barriers and open doors to opportunity.

In partnership with the WWU Small Business Development Center and First Fed, this fund provides revolving loans ranging from $2,500 to $50,000. The goal is to empower individuals who might not qualify for traditional financing and help them launch or grow small businesses that enrich our local economy.

• Philanthropic contributions
• Donor Advised Fund (DAF) assets, either loaned to the fund or directly invested

• Asylum seekers and newcomers
• Individuals with little or no credit history
• Black, Indigenous, People of Color, women, and rural entrepreneurs

Loans are structured with a repayment period of up to 5 years, creating a sustainable cycle of support and reinvestment.

Your investment in this fund helps level the playing field for hardworking entrepreneurs who have the ideas and drive but need access to affordable capital. Every loan helps create jobs, strengthen families, and contribute to a more inclusive, vibrant community.

Help foster opportunity and equity in Whatcom County.

To learn more or to set up a meeting, contact Brad Tuininga, Vice President of Philanthropy, at brad@whatcomcf.org.