News & Press - Access Plus Capital

SCORE Simple Steps – Session 4 – Financial Projections

June 22, 2025

Is Starting a Business Right for You?

Starts June 13, to July 18, 2017, Every TUESDAY 9 am to Noon.

The SCORE Simple Steps Series Workshops can help you make a smart startThe SCORE Simple Steps Series Workshops will help you:

· Define and evaluate your ideas.

· Develop a marketing strategy.

· Identify the best ways to fund your startup.

· Turn your idea into action with tools and templates.

· Get useful and helpful mentoring sessions.

· Connect with other entrepreneurs.

Jump-start your business idea with the SCORE Simple Steps^TM Series Workshops. Successful and experienced executives will help you reach a “go or no-go” decision for starting a business.

Make a smart start. Attend the SCORE Simple Steps^TM Series Workshops and begin your journey for small business success.

Overview The SCORE Simple Steps Series provides six, three-hour workshops with action steps.

June 13^th – Start-up Basics
June 20^th – Business Concept
June 27^th – Marketing Plan
July 11^th (4^th Holiday) – Financial Projections
July 18^th – Funding Sources
July 25^th – Bonus Session, Ask the Experts

Additional Workshops go to www.centralvalleyscore.orgTo join SCORE, go to www.score.org

Meet Alma Wolverton of Pum Bum Society

June 22, 2025

Local business owner, Alma Wolverton, says, “Access Plus Capital has a niche with the dreamers.” You might know Wolverton’s business, Pum Bum Society. Access Plus Capital provided Wolverton with the funding she needed to see her business thrive. While Wolverton had personal funds to start her business, she wanted to pursue additional funding as a safety net. Wolverton said of working with Access Plus Capital, “I was going to find a way to open up my business with or without a lender, but a lender made the process a lot easier.”

Pum Bum Society is a locally owned and operated boutique at the Shops In River Park. Pum Bum Society specializes in modern and contemporary clothing for women. It also offers a personalized styling service, which includes wardrobe styling for special events, vacations, and everyday life; it has been a community luxury. The service will make you stand out from the rest, develop your confidence, and offer a convenient shopping experience.

Now, Alma hopes to continue to expand through pop-up shops like “MANTRA”, an athleisure pop-up boutique she opened in 2018. Alma’s advice for new business owners? Be patient. The process takes time. The future of Pum Bum Society is bright. Keep an eye out for more and more great things from Alma Wolverton and Pum Bum Society!

“Anyone out there looking to make their dream come true… know you are in the right hands with Access Plus Capital.” – Alma Wolverton

Scale Fresno Launches with Commitment from The James Irvine Foundation to Drive Inclusive Small Business Growth

May 23, 2025

FRESNO, Calif. — At today’s inaugural Scale Fresno Investor Summit, more than 50 leaders from the
community, philanthropic, and public sectors came together to officially launch Scale Fresno — a first-of-
its-kind initiative to grow small business ownership in Fresno County by 30% by 2030, aiming to create
nearly 7,000 new businesses across the region.

During the event, The James Irvine Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive small business
growth — a commitment that began with a $1 million investment in SCALE Fresno in 2024. This
catalytic funding laid the groundwork for the collaborative effort and reflects the Foundation’s continued
focus on expanding economic opportunity, especially for low-income and historically excluded
Californians.

“Fresno is showing what’s possible when we invest in the power of local leadership and long-term
infrastructure,” said Jessica Kaczmarek, Priority Communities Initiative Director of The James Irvine
Foundation. “Scale Fresno is exactly the kind of community-rooted, systems-level approach California
needs to unlock inclusive economic opportunity. We’re proud to support this work to help ensure small
business ownership is within reach for all Californians.”

Fresno County is one of the state’s fastest growing and most racially diverse regions, but only 20% of its
businesses are owned by women or people of color. Despite the region’s diversity, deep disparities in
access to capital and ownership persist. Entrepreneurs of color face a $3 billion capital gap, limiting their
ability to start and grow businesses. Scale Fresno is designed to close that gap by building an economy
where access, ownership, and opportunity are available to all. While the initiative supports all small
businesses, it places a strategic focus on entrepreneurs of color, women, immigrants, and first-time
founders — groups that have historically faced systemic barriers to capital, mentorship, and visibility.

“Small businesses are the backbone of California’s economy — and that includes the talented
entrepreneurs building businesses in places like Fresno,” said Dr. Tara Lynn Gray, Director of the
California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA). “Scale Fresno is doing the critical work of
transforming systems and centering equity. This model shows what’s possible when we align around
community-driven, coordinated approaches to grow inclusive economic opportunity.”

Scale Fresno brings together more than 20 trusted, community-based partners — many of whom have
spent decades supporting entrepreneurs across Fresno County. Through this new ecosystem-wide
coordination, longtime partners are aligning their efforts behind the scenes to operate as a unified system.
By streamlining tools, referrals, capital pathways, and outreach, Scale Fresno is creating a centralized and
consistent support network — ensuring that small businesses can more efficiently access the services and
resources they need to start and grow their operations.

“What sets Scale Fresno apart is that it’s not just a program — it’s a coordinated ecosystem built by the
organizations that have supported Fresno County’s small businesses for decades,” said Tate Hill, CEO of
Access Plus Capital, the convener of Scale Fresno. “We’re investing in the infrastructure that drives small
business success: shared data, warm referrals, and aligned capital access. By addressing the fragmentation
and inequities that continue to hold back BIPOC and rural entrepreneurs, Scale Fresno can offer a real
blueprint for inclusive economic development — in Fresno County and beyond.”

A Blueprint for Impact: Scale Fresno’s Investable Plan

As part of the launch, Scale Fresno introduced its Investable Plan — a clear, fundable roadmap of projects
designed to bring this vision to life. The plan outlines dozens of implementation-ready projects aimed at
strengthening small business growth through access to capital, capacity building, and community.

“The Investable Plan gives funders, lenders, and public agencies a way to plug into real, shovel-ready
solutions — not just vision statements,” said Cody Laird, Chair of Scale Fresno and Business
Development Specialist at the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation. “We’ve designed this
roadmap with and for Fresno’s small business ecosystem. It’s actionable and ready to deliver results.”

Scale Fresno’s implementation strategy includes the following objectives:

CAPITAL

Unlock $30M+ in flexible capital for more than 320 Fresno small businesses — including
loans, grants, and credit-building tools — with a focus on underserved businesses
$3M in credit enhancements (loan loss reserves, guarantees, etc.)
180 microloans under $50K annually, totaling $9 million over 3 years
$7,000,000 annually in growth-stage loans over $50K for 140 loans over 3 years
70% capital deployed to underserved businesses

CAPACITY

30% increase in the number of businesses served annually
New small businesses: Number of EIN applications filed
50% of participating entrepreneurs will complete industry-specific training
25% of mobile TA visits delivered to rural areas
Number of businesses receiving digital and financial literacy support
$ Raised for TA programs
% of TA services offered in multiple languages

COMMUNITY

20% of successful business referrals to ecosystem partners
5-7 ecosystem or small business convenings hosted annually
450+ total attendees across all convenings over 3 years, segmented by business type and
demographics
70% of attendees reporting increased trust and awareness of the ecosystem

About Scale Fresno

Scale Fresno is a collaborative of more than 20 community-rooted, business-serving partners working
together to grow small business ownership in Fresno County by 30% by 2030 — nearly 7,000 new
businesses. With a strategic focus on entrepreneurs of color, women, immigrants, and first-time founders,
Scale Fresno unites financial lenders, technical assistance providers, and trusted local organizations to
deliver inclusive, tailored support. From capital access to capacity building, the initiative is helping
entrepreneurs start strong and scale with confidence. More than just a business support program, Scale
Fresno is a strategy to build a more equitable economy — one that supports the diverse small businesses
powering Fresno County.

Learn more at: ScaleFresno.org

Scale Fresno Partners
Access Plus Capital
Asian Business Institute and Resource Center
Better Blackstone / Regenerate California Innovation
CDC Small Business Finance
Central California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Central Valley Community Foundation
Central Valley Immigrant Integration Collaborative
Central Valley Women’s Entrepreneur Center
Community Vision Capital and Consulting
Cultiva la Salud
Education and Leadership Foundation
Fresno Pacific University Center for Community Transformation
Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation
Fresno County Economic Development Corporation
Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce
Fresno Native American & Business Development Center
Fresno Stewardship Foundation
Hmong Business Incubator Center
U.S. Small Business Administration, Fresno District
Vision View/Helping Others Pursue Excellence
Small Business Majority
Valley Community SBDC
City of Fresno – Economic Development Department
The Fresno Center

Get Your Business Ready for Tax Season: Q1 Tax Prep Checklist

January 7, 2025

The start of the year is a great time to ensure your business is financially organized. Preparing for tax season doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you take it step by step. This Q1 Tax Prep Checklist will guide you through organizing your documents, understanding deadlines, and ensuring you’re maximizing deductions.

Step 1: Gather All Necessary Documents

To begin, make sure you have the following items ready:

Income Records: Include invoices, sales records, and any 1099 forms you’ve received.
Expense Records: Organize receipts for business purchases, operational costs, and utility bills.
Financial Statements: Bank statements and credit card statements are critical for verifying expenses.
Employee/Contractor Documentation: Collect W-2s, 1099s, and payroll records if applicable.

Pro Tip: Use an expense tracking tool or software to stay on top of your records year-round.

Step 2: Organize Your Records

Keeping everything in order saves you time and stress:

Sort By Category: Separate income, expenses, and deductions into folders or labeled files.
Digital Backups: Scan paper receipts and save digital copies in a secure cloud storage system.
Mileage Logs: If you use a personal vehicle for business purposes, ensure your mileage log is up to date.

Pro Tip: Use tools like QuickBooks, Xero, or Wave to automate expense tracking and financial organization.

Step 3: Know Your Key Deadlines

Mark these important Q1 tax deadlines on your calendar:

January 15: Estimated tax payments for Q4 2024 are due.
February 1: Deadline to issue 1099-NEC and W-2 forms to contractors and employees.
March 15: Deadline for S-Corp and partnership tax returns.

Pro Tip: Double-check your deadlines with a tax professional to avoid penalties.

Step 4: Maximize Deductions

Don’t leave money on the table! Common deductions for small businesses include:

Home office expenses.
Marketing and advertising costs.
Business travel and meals.
Equipment and software purchases.

Pro Tip: Work with a tax advisor to identify industry-specific deductions you might qualify for.

Step 5: Consult with a Tax Professional

Tax laws can be complex and vary by state. Consulting a professional ensures accuracy and helps you uncover opportunities to save. Many CDFIs and community organizations also offer free or low-cost tax preparation resources for small business owners.

Access Plus Capital, a community development financial institution (CDFI) serving underinvested communities in central California, is dedicated to supporting small businesses. We offer a range of free resources, including technical assistance, to help you navigate tax season with confidence. Contact us at info@accesspluscapital.com or through our contact form to learn more about our services.

Bakersfield Location

841 Mohawk Street

Bakersfield, CA 93309

(661) 322-9019

Fresno Location

2607 Fresno Street

Fresno, CA 93721

(559) 552-4300

Modesto Location

(209) 297-9620

Sacramento Location

916-237-8430

Resources:

Community West Bank Makes EQ2 Investment in Access Plus Capital to Fuel Small Business Growth

December 22, 2024

Fresno, CA – [December 23rd , 2024] – Access Plus Capital is proud to announce an Equity Equivalent Investment (EQ2) from Community West Bank, marking a significant step forward in advancing economic opportunities for small businesses in underserved communities. This investment will strengthen Access Plus Capital’s ability to provide critical financing to entrepreneurs who lack access to traditional lending.

The EQ2 investment will enable Access Plus Capital to expand its lending capacity, offering flexible and affordable loan products to small businesses across Central California. These funds are expected to support small businesses, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the region.

“This investment from Community West Bank is a testament to the power of collaboration in building stronger, more equitable communities,” said Tate Hill, President and CEO of Access Plus Capital. “With this partnership, we can extend our impact by providing more entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed, fostering economic mobility in the areas we serve.”

“Community West Bank is proud to partner with Access Plus Capital in support of the mission to eliminate economic barriers to financial success through fair and equitable community investment,” said James J. Kim, President and CEO of Community West Bank. “We consider this a privilege to partner with Access Plus Capital and provide support to the business communities that our Company and our team calls home.”

Access Plus Capital has a proven track record of driving economic development in underserved areas. To date, the organization has provided over $60,000,000 in financing to over 1500 businesses, creating over 3000 jobs and supporting diverse entrepreneurs from a range of industries.

This EQ2 investment underscores a shared commitment between Access Plus Capital and Community West Bank to promote inclusive economic growth and empower small business owners.

About Access Plus Capital

Founded in 2008, Access Plus Capital is a nonprofit CDFI dedicated to providing affordable financing and resources to small businesses in underserved communities. For more information about Access Plus Capital and its programs, please visit www.accesspluscapital.com.

About Community West Bank

Founded in 1980, Community West Bank is a locally operated community bank, headquartered in Fresno, California proudly serving people and communities through 26 locations.

Contact:
Pamela Mostert, Chief Operating Officer at pamela.mostert@accesspluscapital.com Office: (559) 552-4314 | 2607 Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93721

Jennifer Held, SVP, Marketing Director at jennifer.held@communitywestbank.com Office: (209) 644-7830 | Cell: (209) 561-0277

Bridging the Rural and Climate Justice Gap: Wells Fargo supports Access Plus Capital

November 14, 2024

Fresno, CA (November 14, 2024) – Access Plus Capital (APC), a leading Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in Central California, is thrilled to announce the award of a $120,000 grant earlier this year. This critical funding will fuel a strategic initiative focused on bridging the gap between rural communities and climate justice solutions.

Empowering Entrepreneurs and Fostering Sustainability

The initiative will provide grants, loans, and support to climate-friendly businesses, foster innovation in rural startups through mentorship and resources, and address equity by targeting funding for minority-owned, women-owned, and underserved rural businesses.

A Legacy of Impact

Since its inception, Access Plus Capital has deployed over $60 million to support more than 1,000 borrowers with business coaching and workshops, focusing on microlending for low-to-moderate income communities, especially entrepreneurs of color and women, fostering economic opportunity and equity.

Wells Fargo has been a partner from the beginning with a $200,000 grant investment. To date, Access Plus has invested over $13 million in central California’s rural businesses and numerous small business energy efficiency projects through POWER Loans.

Bridging the Gap

“This grant is a big step toward connecting rural communities with climate justice solutions,” said Tate Hill, President & CEO of Access Plus Capital.

“We recognize the crucial role small businesses play in driving economic growth and creating jobs,” said Kären Woodruff, Senior Vice president, Community Relations, Wells Fargo. “Our support of Access Plus Capital is a testament to our commitment to helping small businesses succeed and our dedication to strengthening the economic fabric of California’s rural business community.”

About Access Plus Capital

Access Plus Capital is a mission-driven CDFI dedicated to eliminating economic barriers to financial success through fair and equitable community investment. We serve 15 counties in California’s Central Valley, providing essential capital and business coaching in underinvested communities and supporting small business ecosystems.

Contact: Ushan Samarakone, Chief of Staff, at ushan.samarakone@accesspluscapital.com

Office: (559) 552-4321 | 2607 Fresno St, Fresno, CA 93721

Valley Green Futures: Unlocking Potential in a Resilient Central Valley

October 1, 2024

The Central Valley is the home of great things: lush mixed-evergreen forests with giant trees that predate the establishment of the State of California, the capital of the state with the fifth largest economy in the whole world, millions of acres of farmland that feed the nation, and resilient communities that have supported each other in the midst of wildfires, drought, and increasingly hot summers. The underlying spirit of the Central Valley is rooted in resilience. While this resiliency has allowed the Central Valley to make it through numerous economic and environmental challenges, we should not have to endure these challenges without trying to combat the issues at hand. There is a growing movement to combat climate change with global mitigation and adaptation measures. Locally, Access Plus Capital is prepared to be a leader in the finance industry to support sustainability and climate change mitigation with a keen eye on small businesses.

As we have seen in recent years, environmental degradation and climate change have posed serious challenges to the people of the Central Valley and have negatively impacted small businesses who were unable to adapt. Years of drought have made it hard for the Central Valley to feed itself and the rest of the nation. Wildfires have decimated small communities and small businesses, pose a threat every summer, and have made it harder to get insured. Emissions from automobiles pose health risks in the communities we live in and raise our families. While we can make it through these challenges, it is better for us to adapt and tackle climate change for the future of our communities and for our families.

With community, environment, and small businesses in mind, Access Plus Capital is excited to launch the Valley Green Futures loan fund to support the small business ecosystem driving our community forward. This loan fund will support green initiatives that are important to small businesses and will empower them to make change in their communities. By financing measures that are energy efficient or reduce the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted, business owners will contribute efforts to protect the environment while also potentially saving money in the long run.

Our first Valley Green Futures loan product will be focused on energy efficiency. This loan has the potential to fund small businesses in measures that will allow them to see a lower monthly utility bill. By supporting small businesses in acquiring energy efficient appliances and retrofitting, we can potentially reduce their monthly expenses and free up capital to take home or reinvest in their business. This is huge for a small business owner who has been impacted by frequent utility rate increases and who is at risk of being run out of business due to rising costs of goods and services that are essential to run their business. Future offerings under the Valley Green Futures loan fund include electric vehicles, electric vehicle charging, and solar power and battery storage for small businesses. These measures are designed to combat emissions that contribute to climate change and offer benefits such as tax credits and cost savings.

When people say the grass is greener on the other side, they are talking about the Central Valley. Together, we are shaping the future of the Central Valley and ensuring the future and longevity of our communities. Access Plus Capital envisions a Central Valley where access to capital is not a barrier and we extend this philosophy to sustainability projects that can be of benefit to small businesses who can get ahead of sustainable governmental mandates. We offer technical assistance in addition to our loans, and we can provide custom solutions that are useful to our clients. This holistic view of lending allows us to empower people who have been left behind by big banks and propel their businesses forward. The Central Valley’s future is Green with the support of our small businesses. As catalysts for change in their community, they can support the growing sustainability movement while potentially cutting costs when they finance an energy efficiency project with a Valley Green Futures loan at Access Plus Capital.

Reach out to us today to inquire about the Valley Green Futures loan. Reaching out to us does not mean you have to sign today. If you are interested and think you may not be ready, we may be able to support your efforts to become loan ready.

Access Plus Capital’s Vision for a Cleaner Central California

October 1, 2024

Access Plus Capital recognizes the rapidly changing climate caused largely by human activity. The repercussions of climate change have been felt across the world and close to home. From frequent wildfires to an increasing number of extreme heat days and unhealthy air quality days, the impact of climate change does not just affect nature and landscapes, it affects people in our communities and can severely impact health and quality of life.

Access Plus Capital started as a loan fund for Southeast Asian farmers in the late 1990’s and then grew to mission driven lender that serves the gaps left by banks and other traditional financial institutions. From our inception to the current day, our clients have not been able to be financed elsewhere, have difficulty accessing capital, and endure barriers to success. Our vision to create a system where capital is no longer a barrier to success in central California includes serving the communities at the forefront of climate change.

Our 15 county service area is diverse in geography and industry: from Fresno, the heart of agricultural production in California, to Visalia, the gateway to the sequoias, and to Sacramento, our state capital, our service area includes vibrant communities that are all unique, but also face similar challenges because of climate change. They face the brunt of climate change and are at risk of being negatively affected. They are impacted by drought, wildfires, poor air quality from wildfires and vehicle emissions, and more. We stand with the communities affected by climate change and the small businesses that must respond accordingly for the survival of their businesses and livelihood. To serve our clients who have the most to lose to climate change, Access Plus Capital has strengthened its sustainability efforts with dedicated staffing to contribute to sustainability measures and green lending.

Access Plus Capital’s future is now more focused on climate and green lending, driven by a combination of efforts promoting sustainability and economic growth across the nation. With the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 by the Biden-Harris administration, its Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund provisions have accelerated the nationwide capacity for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, a major cause of climate change. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) is a once in a generation investment in the nation’s economy and a historic investment in climate change mitigation. In response to the GGRF, there has been a rapidly growing network of nonprofits, CDFIs, and industry partners preparing to deploy the capital offered in the GGRF to communities. Access Plus Capital is positioned to offer green loan products thanks to the support of a LISC EMC AmeriCorps member specializing in Climate and Green Lending, as well as an ecosystem of capacity building offered by the Milken Institute, Elemental Impact, and Banyan Infrastructure.

With the addition of a Climate and Green Lending Specialist and an organization wide shift to focus on green lending, we have been able to establish deeper ties with organizations engaged in climate financing infrastructure, public officials, lawmakers with the ability to shape policy, and the community at the forefront of climate change. Our capacity to protect the environment has grown as has our understanding of our community’s needs. As our focus has shifted to green lending, we have been engaged with the public, attending public forums to hear from residents, attending industry events to stay informed, and speaking at local conferences. Our engagements are a two-way street, as we are building our capacity to teach our clients, we are learning from those with expertise and lived experiences that will support our ability to serve clients and communities. Through these discussions, we have seen the difficulty for people and small businesses to adopt innovative technologies, especially those that are sustainable.

As a nonprofit mission driven lender, Access Plus Capital will be offering a suite of climate and green loans. Our first green loan, the Green Futures loan, is designed for small businesses who find value in potentially saving money and protecting the environment. The Green Futures loan will fund energy efficiency efforts and retrofits that promote energy efficiency. By focusing on reducing wasted energy, we expect cost savings for many clients, a reduced burden on the power grid, and thus reduced emissions from the greenhouse gases that fuel conventional electricity production. Products that can be financed under this loan program include HVAC units, LED lighting, Energy Star equipment, cool roofs, and associated soft and other cost and measures.

Access Plus Capital will be more than a lender. We will be a partner for small businesses to finance their sustainable projects and provide assistance necessary to support their businesses. What sets us apart from a bank or conventional lender is our dedication to supporting small businesses beyond signing for a loan. Our staff can provide the necessary technical assistance and business services support to help your small business thrive at no added cost to you.

Our dedication to sustainability and ensuring our clients can be ahead of the game in sustainable technology adoption is rooted in our commitment to both. We serve our clients oftentimes as their last chance to access capital and our approach has always been to holistically support their business endeavors. We focus on their success and ability to grow. The Green Futures loan and following green loan products aim to support clients’ success and promote a cleaner Central California where our livelihoods are at stake because of climate change. Together with our clients, we can take on climate change in a manner that supports the longevity of their small businesses.

Building Capacity for Green Lending: Partnerships for Success

September 26, 2024

In response to mounting economic struggle across the country, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (IRA) served as a nationwide investment in the economy with a sizable portion going to the $27 Billion Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund. Since the passage of the IRA, there has been tremendous movement across the nationwide economy to prepare for the release of funds allocated in the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF). The GGRF will be a catalyst for sustainable action with billions of dollars in public funding expected to leverage further investment from the private sector. This landmark investment in greenhouse gas reduction will promote sustainable innovation and impactful measures in underinvested communities.

Administered by the Environmental Protection Agency, the $27 billion in funds will go to three separate programs. These programs include the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator, Solar for All, and the National Clean Investment Fund. The Clean Communities Investment Accelerator will award its $6 billion in program funding to five separate grant recipients that will act as intermediaries in the disbursement of funds to organizations including Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and other community lenders. Access Plus Capital anticipates a disbursement of CCIA funds from the CDFI intermediary, Opportunity Finance Network. Opportunity Finance Network has been awarded $2.29 Billion to connect capital to community lenders and CDFIs, who in turn provide capital and technical assistance to clients that will benefit from the projects that the CCIA will finance.

The CCIA maintains three priority project categories: Distributed Energy Generation and Storage, Net-Zero Emissions Buildings, and Zero-Emissions Transportation. Distributed Energy Generation and Storage refers to the generation of carbon-pollution free energy from solar and wind power generation. Net-Zero Emissions Buildings refers to retrofitting buildings to become net-zero and new constructions of net-zero emissions buildings. Zero-Emissions Transportation refers to transportation modes that do not emit greenhouse gases, including electric bikes, electric scooters, medium and heavy-duty electric vehicles, and charging infrastructure. These projects must be in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

Access Plus Capital partnered with the Milken Institute, Elemental Accelerator, and Banyan Infrastructure to build green lending capacity ahead of the release of funds from the CCIA. The partnership pairs community lenders with the Banyan Infrastructure project finance system, while simultaneously providing technical support to grow our green lending capacity. This partnership has enabled Access Plus Capital to take a comprehensive approach to scaling up our green lending program before funds from the CCIA have been made available. With the complexity of compliance and reporting, the support from these partners and the intuitiveness of the Banyan platform will allow us to prepare compliance reports with integrated software that projects emissions reduced by products being financed.

Our preparation ahead of the release of GGRF funds will allow us to become early adopters of best practices in green lending. This wonderful partnership will allow us to best serve our clients who are being priced out of their business and have a tough time adopting new innovative measures. To bring our clients forward, we will use our technical assistance capabilities to help our clients understand the shifting technology landscape that has become more sustainable. With mandates for energy efficient new constructions and electric vehicle adoption, it can be hard to prepare for the future without a guiding hand that has already done research and has the means to guide your business. Access Plus Capital is proud to be a guiding figure to our clients in building their understanding of such mandates, early adoption, and providing financing for these green initiatives with favorable rates.

Employee Spotlight – Sonexay Sopha: Building a More Equitable Central Valley

May 10, 2024

Sonexay Sopha thrives on building relationships with Central Valley small businesses. He sees Access Plus Capital’s financial support as a catalyst for its success, ultimately contributing to the region’s economic health. Sone’s meticulous financial management ensures the organization’s stability, allowing us to further our mission of breaking down barriers to success. A lifelong resident, Sone finds deep personal satisfaction in being part of the Central Valley’s growth, drawing inspiration from his past volunteer work to make a positive community impact.

—Thank you, Sone, for all that you do!

Employee Spotlight – Harry Hamparian

April 23, 2024

We’re excited to feature Harry Hamparian in this week’s employee spotlight! He plays a vital role in supporting small businesses in the Central Valley at Access Plus Capital. Let’s dive into his perspective on the importance of this work.

Q. What is the most rewarding part about working with small business owners in the Central Valley at Access Plus Capital? How do you see your work contributing to their success stories?

A. Seeing the determination of each small business owner to maneuver their unique businesses in the right direction is what makes my work rewarding. I had the pleasure of getting involved in an organization while attending college that did everything it could to promote and champion local small businesses in the area. That short-term experience left a long-term impression on me in the importance of supporting the goals and dreams of each small business owner by shopping locally. Revisiting that experience on a daily basis pushes my personal efforts to help contribute to the success stories of small business owners in the Valley.

Q. Access Plus Capital prioritizes both financial success and social impact. Can you describe a specific instance where you were able to make a positive difference in the community, beyond just providing capital?

A. I’d like to think that my experience as a volunteer sports coach at the recreation level has made an impact in the Fresno and Clovis communities. Similar to the financial coaching we provide at Access Plus Capital, sports coaching involves two unique parties (coach and players) that share and revere a common goal that requires the attention and dedication of each side in order to achieve that goal.

Q. Access Plus Capital’s vision is a Central Valley where capital is no longer a barrier to success. How does your role contribute to achieving this vision, and why does this aspect of Access Plus Capital’s mission resonate with you?

A. Putting myself in the shoes of these persistent small business owners that are simply looking for a lender to provide them with a chance makes a lasting impact on me and the work that I contribute. The organization’s goal in not having capital be a barrier to success resonates with me due to the simple fact that there are unique small business ideas out there that continue to be locked away due to the idea makers having difficulties in securing desired financing. My role in ensuring that loan applications are complete and polished before moving into Underwriting can help expedite the travel time of loan applications in our organization pipeline, which can help speed up the distribution of financing to the business owners that need it.

Navigating the Complex Landscape of CDFI Small Business Lending

March 15, 2024

As a CDFI serving Central California, we understand the crucial role we play in supporting underserved communities and fostering economic growth. We face unique challenges, however, especially in the realm of small business lending. This article focuses on the increasing complexity of small business lending costs, a growing concern for CDFIs nationwide.

The Landscape of Rising Costs:

The reality is that providing vital financial resources to small businesses, particularly through microlending, often comes with higher operational costs. These costs often fall outside the scope of support offered by technical assistance (TA) grants and programmatic specific dollars. Loan servicing, which includes portfolio management and software, requires ongoing investment to ensure efficient and secure operations. This inherently raises the question – how can CDFIs continue to serve their communities effectively in the face of these financial constraints?

The Paradox of Microlending:

Here lies the paradox. While smaller loan sizes carry higher costs per dollar lent, they often boast impressive repayment rates. This highlights the impact CDFIs achieve, fostering financial inclusion and driving economic development within underserved communities. Studies even suggest that microloans contribute significantly to job creation and poverty reduction, making them crucial tools for positive social change.

Rethinking the TA Model:

Therefore, optimizing the TA model becomes crucial. By leveraging these resources strategically, CDFIs can maximize their impact dollars and bridge the gap between lending costs and available funding. This might involve:

Collaborating with other CDFIs to share best practices and jointly develop cost-effective solutions for loan servicing and software needs.
Seeking innovative partnerships with private entities or foundations to co-fund specific technical assistance programs that address lending cost challenges.
Advocating for policy changes that recognize the unique challenges faced by CDFIs and allocate funding specifically for covering operational costs associated with small business lending.

Facing the FinTech Challenge:

While navigating these complexities, CDFIs also encounter rising competition from fintech companies. These startups often boast streamlined lending processes and lower overhead costs, making them attractive options for some small businesses. However, it’s crucial to remember that CDFIs offer a distinct value proposition:

Deep understanding of the specific needs and challenges faced by underserved communities: CDFIs have a long history of working with these communities and possess invaluable expertise in tailoring financial products and services to their unique circumstances.
Focus on holistic community development: Beyond just providing loans, CDFIs often act as trusted partners offering financial education, business development resources, and other support services that empower small businesses to thrive in the long run.
Strong ties to their communities: CDFIs are often embedded within the communities they serve, fostering a deeper understanding of local needs and a genuine commitment to promoting sustainable growth from within.

Leading the Way:

By acknowledging the rising complexity of small business lending costs and taking proactive steps to address them, CDFIs can continue to serve as essential pillars in their communities. We can become thought leaders in this space by:

Engaging in open dialogue with policymakers, regulators, and other stakeholders to raise awareness about the challenges faced by CDFIs and advocate for solutions.
Embracing innovation and collaboration to develop cost-effective and efficient lending models that cater to the specific needs of small businesses in underserved communities.
Sharing knowledge and best practices with other CDFIs across the nation, fostering a collaborative ecosystem of expertise and support.

In conclusion, navigating the complex landscape of small business lending costs requires a multifaceted approach. By optimizing the TA model, embracing collaboration, and leveraging our unique strengths, CDFIs can continue to deliver impactful financial services, empower underserved communities, and establish ourselves as true thought leaders in the realm of financial inclusion and community development. Let us work together to bridge the gap and ensure that small businesses across the country have access to the resources they need to thrive.

Access Plus Capital Begins a New Era

January 18, 2024

FRESNO, CALIFORNIA – January 12, 2024 – Access Plus Capital is announcing the appointment of Pamela Mostert to the new role of Chief Operating Officer as part of a new leadership direction marking the beginning of a new era.

In 2023, Access Plus Capital saw historical growth exceeding $60 million in deployed capital and reaching more than 1000 businesses. At this key juncture of celebrating 15 years of excellence and the first year as an independent entity, President Hill has reorganized the leadership team to support the performance and team development goals and to align with APC’s 5-Year Strategic Plan of deploying $43 million in new loans by 2026.

Pamela Mostert has over 40 years of experience in the financial industry. She has a bachelor’s degree in business management and marketing and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. She joined Access Plus Capital in 2021, as the Business Services Manager, where she developed and implemented a robust business technical assistance department that focuses on helping small businesses become loan ready. She was subsequently promoted to the role of Vice President of Lending where she reduced loan processing times which resulted in the largest loan volume to date. According to Mostert, “As Chief Operating Officer my goal is to make sure that Access Plus Capital has a solid foundation which will allow our organization to impact the lives of entrepreneurs and the communities we serve.”

In her capacity as the Chief Operating Officer, Pamela Mostert will lead the lending and operations of the organization. In addition, the following promotions are taking place; SeeYeng Her, Vice President of Lending; Ushan Samarakone, Chief of Staff; Nigel Kirk, Business Development Manager-North Valley; and Maurice Raeford, Impact & Compliance Manager.

President Hill approves, “these are a great set of leaders in their own right who will enable us to reach greater heights and help us get closer to making ‘access to capital no longer a barrier to success’.

With a leadership team composed almost entirely of women and people of color, Access Plus Capital is well-positioned to meet the needs of underinvested entrepreneurs throughout the region including minority business owners and female entrepreneurs.

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Also, today marks Baldev Birk’s last day at Access Plus Capital. Baldev started 13 years ago as a EOC accountant before moving to APC as a business development officer. During his 9-year tenure, he contributed a technical assistance, built the portfolio management department, and ended his APC career as the organization’s first VP of Finance. We appreciate his contributions to the organization and wish him well in his future endeavors. Any finance or accounting matters can be directed to President, COO or Sonexay Sopha, the accounting manager.

Matthew Marchbanks – Building Bridges of Opportunity in the Central Valley

December 19, 2023

Meet Matthew Marchbanks, Program Specialist – AmeriCorps EMC at Access Plus Capital. He is a passionate advocate for economic justice and a key player in bridging the financial gap for underserved communities in California’s Central Valley. Driven by a deep-seated commitment instilled by his community-minded family, Matthew’s path led him to Access Plus Capital, the region’s premier Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).

Growing up in Chicago, Matthew witnessed firsthand the stark disparities in economic development, particularly in historically marginalized neighborhoods. This ignited a fire within him, fueling a desire to understand and address the systemic inequities that hampered community growth. His studies in economics and geography at Howard University further solidified his resolve, and the opportunity with LISC AmeriCorps opened his eyes to the impactful work of CDFIs.

“I saw how economic growth could be used as a tool for good,” Matthew explains. “But it needed to be mindful of the past, of the communities that had been left behind by redlining and disinvestment.” This realization propelled him towards Access Plus Capital, where he could actively contribute to building a more equitable landscape in the Central Valley.

The Thrill of Ideation and Seeing Plans Come to Life

As a Project Manager at Access Plus Capital, Matthew finds immense satisfaction in the “ideation and planning” phases of his work. From conceptualizing initiatives to meticulously mapping out their execution, he revels in the process of watching ideas transform into tangible realities. “The most rewarding part,” he says, “is seeing months of planning culminate in a successful program launch, knowing that we’ve made a positive impact under our mission statement.”

Embracing the Challenge of Constant Learning

But Matthew also acknowledges the inherent challenges of navigating a burgeoning industry like the CDFI sector. “There’s always something new to learn, new nuances to grasp,” he admits. “It pushes me outside my comfort zone, but that’s where growth happens.” This continuous learning curve, though demanding, fuels his professional development and keeps him engaged in the ever-evolving landscape of community development.

Making a Real Difference: A Project Close to Matthew’s Heart

One project particularly close to Matthew’s heart is the ongoing business development initiative in a rural Fresno community. Taking the lead alongside his colleagues at Access Plus Capital, he’s excited about the potential to empower local entrepreneurs and inject economic vitality into a historically marginalized area. “Witnessing these communities thrive is what keeps me going,” he says, his voice brimming with conviction.

A Calling, Not Just a Career: Advice for Aspiring Changemakers

For those considering a career in the CDFI industry, Matthew has a clear message: “There are so many doors, so many departments, so much need for passionate individuals like you. This is a growing field with a diverse range of roles, and if you’re driven by the mission, there’s no better place to find your niche and make a real difference.”

Matthew Marchbanks is more than just an employee at Access Plus Capital; he’s an embodiment of the organization’s commitment to economic justice. His story is a testament to the power of individual drive and the transformative potential of CDFIs in building a more equitable future for underserved communities.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on inspiring stories like Matthew’s and learn how Access Plus Capital is fueling economic empowerment across the Central Valley.

Employee Spotlight – Melissa: A Catalyst for Change at Access Plus Capital

November 15, 2023

Allow us to introduce Melissa Santiago-Hernandez, our dedicated Portfolio Quality Analyst at Access Plus Capital. Her inspiring journey and unwavering commitment to our CDFI mission have made her an invaluable asset to our team.

Passion Born from Experience

Melissa’s journey is deeply rooted in her background and the challenges she observed within her community. Growing up in an immigrant household, she witnessed numerous individuals with big dreams who struggled to realize them due to a lack of resources, information, and support. This early exposure to the need for financial literacy and community support sparked her passion for change.

From Finance to CDFIs

Armed with a financial degree, Melissa ventured into the finance industry, only to find it to be a “cookie-cutter” world, driven by strict requirements and regulations. The conventional lending institutions often fixated on credit scores and overlooked external factors that could impact a person’s financial journey, such as life’s ups and downs. Melissa saw a different path when she discovered Access Plus Capital (APC).

APC’s mission aligned perfectly with her values. Unlike traditional lenders, APC takes a holistic approach, considering the overall character of a client rather than focusing solely on one metric. They go the extra mile to support their clients, providing them with resources to ensure success.

Empowering Dreams, One Client at a Time

Melissa’s role at APC is not just a job; it’s a mission. She believes in the power of making a difference, whether recognized or not. The most rewarding part of her job is witnessing the transformation in the lives of clients. It’s about knowing that she played a part in their journey, from the initial idea to the grand opening, and beyond. She has seen businesses grow, expand, and succeed, proving that APC’s approach works.

However, the job is not without its challenges. Some clients, burdened by past negative experiences with lenders, are skeptical about the kindness and compassion offered by APC. Changing their perception is one of the most challenging aspects of Melissa’s role. She and the APC team are determined to show clients that they genuinely care about their success.

Making a Real Difference

Melissa shared a heartwarming story of a client who faced financial difficulties and defaulted on their loans. Instead of the usual charge-off process, Melissa worked closely with the client to develop a repayment plan that would help them catch up and keep their business afloat. This is not just about lending but about empowering clients through communication, support, and technical assistance.

Advice for Aspiring CDFI Professionals

For those considering a career in the CDFI industry, Melissa’s advice is clear: Do it for the right reasons. In mission-driven institutions like APC, your work must align with your beliefs. It’s about genuinely caring for your job, making a difference, and being a part of something meaningful. You’ll learn, grow, and go above and beyond for your clients when your mission aligns with your goals.

Melissa’s journey, from her immigrant roots to her role at APC, exemplifies the power of passion and purpose. She not only enriches Access Plus Capital but also empowers individuals and communities to reach their dreams. Thank you, Melissa, for your unwavering commitment to our mission. Your story is a testament to the impact one person can make in the lives of many.

PRESS RELEASE: Access Plus Capital and FMBCC Featured on CBS47 and KSEE24 for Empowering Fresno’s Contractors with BTAC Program

October 11, 2023

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”12910″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_column_text]We are thrilled to announce that Access Plus Capital, in partnership with the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce (FMBCC), has recently received special recognition from two esteemed local news stations, CBS47 and KSEE24. These features spotlighted our groundbreaking Bonding, Technical Assistance, and Contracting program (BTAC), which is transforming the landscape for small and minority-owned contractors in Fresno and surrounding counties.

Fresno, a city experiencing rapid growth with an estimated population of 542,012 people in 2020, is facing an increasing demand for qualified contractors in the construction and public works sector, both locally and at the state level. Small businesses play a pivotal role in Fresno’s regional economy, and recognizing this, BTAC was developed to address the barriers faced by small and emerging contractors.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Breaking Down BTAC: Empowering Small and Minority-Owned Contractors” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left”][vc_column_text]The BTAC program is a comprehensive ecosystem of services aimed at supporting Black, women, and minority-owned construction businesses in Fresno and the surrounding counties. The recent features on CBS47 and KSEE24 have highlighted its significance and impact. BTAC provides critical services and resources that include:[/vc_column_text][dt_vc_list]

Professional Consultation and Technical Assistance: Offering expert guidance to contractors in navigating the complexities of the construction industry.
Bond Transaction Services: Assisting in obtaining bonding, a crucial requirement for contractors.
Contract Financing Services: Facilitating access to financing to help contractors secure contracts.
Counseling and Group Workshops: Providing educational and networking opportunities for contractors.
Business Consultation and Business Referrals: Offering support in various aspects of business development.

[/dt_vc_list][vc_custom_heading text=”How BTAC Works” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left”][vc_column_text]BTAC operates on a rolling basis, starting with individualized assessments and one-on-one consultations in business and finance. This initial phase helps BTAC understand the unique needs of each contractor in terms of growth and development. Subsequently, contractors work closely with a team of financial and business consultants to develop customized work plans for capacity-building services.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Join BTAC Today – Apply Now!” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left”][vc_column_text]To take advantage of the opportunities BTAC offers, interested contractors are encouraged to contact our program’s directors.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”Program Contacts” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left”][vc_column_text]For more information or to apply, please contact:[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Program Manager Ana Pano

Email: ana@fmbcc.com

Phone: (559) 321-4681 (Hablo Español)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]FMBCC Intern Albert Alford

Email: albert@fmbcc.com[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_custom_heading text=”Read the Features” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left”][vc_column_text]To learn more about the recent features of BTAC on CBS47 and KSEE24, please watch the following videos:[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/oJJm2CNvZbA”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/buoeWIe5sfE”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]Don’t miss out on this chance to empower your contracting business and make a lasting impact on Fresno’s growing construction industry. Join BTAC today and be a part of the positive change.[/vc_column_text][vc_custom_heading text=”About BTAC:” font_container=”tag:h3|text_align:left”][vc_column_text]The Bonding, Technical Assistance, and Contracting program (BTAC) is a collaborative effort between Access Plus Capital, the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce (FMBCC), and our partners. BTAC is dedicated to empowering small and minority-owned contractors in Fresno and the surrounding counties by providing essential services and resources to help them compete in the construction industry. For enrollment and inquiries, please contact Program Manager Ana Pano or FMBCC Intern Albert Alford using the provided contact information.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Small Business Owner Escapes the Debt Trap of Merchant Advance Loans

September 19, 2023

As a Portfolio Quality Analyst at Access Plus Capital, Kattia Gomez has seen a lot of different types of businesses come through our doors. But one type of business that she sees all too often is small businesses that have gotten caught up in predatory merchant advance loans.

These loans are often marketed to small businesses as a quick and easy way to get the cash they need. However, the terms of these loans are often predatory, with high interest rates and fees that can quickly trap businesses in a cycle of debt.

Between 2010 and 2014, Founder of A-Tech Auto Repair, Mr. Celedon, took out merchant advance loans to keep his business afloat. However, the loans quickly spiraled out of control, and he ended up with three loans from three different entities.

The loans had predatory interest rates, ranging from 9% to 15%. This meant that Mr. Celedon was paying around $42,000 per year in interest, which drastically reduced his business’s net profit to just 4%. Mr. Celedon was struggling to make the monthly payments on the loans, and he feared that he would lose his business.

In 2015, Mr. Celedon was referred to Access Plus Capital. Mr. Baldev Birk, our VP of Finance, worked with him to refinance his merchant loans. This allowed Mr. Celedon to expand his business by leasing additional space and hiring more staff. He is now on track to increase his business’s net profit to 16% by the end of 2023.

Kattia Gomez shares “I am proud to say that Mr. Celedon has been a pleasure to work with and has a successful business that is growing financially every year.” As a Portfolio Quality Analyst, Kattia is responsible for monitoring the performance of loans in Access Plus Capital’s portfolio.

“I identify potential problems early on and take steps to mitigate risk. This can help to protect the lender and ensure that small businesses have access to the capital they need to grow and succeed. This is where Access Plus Capital comes in”.

Access Plus Capital is a community development financial institution (CDFI) that is committed to eliminating economic barriers to financial success for Central Californian entrepreneurs of color, women, rural communities, veterans, and other underinvested communities.

Since 2008, we have deployed over $50 million in capital to 900+ small businesses from Bakersfield to Stockton who could not qualify for a traditional bank loan. Despite not qualifying for a traditional bank loan, 97% of our clients pay us back.

Mr. Celedon is now on track to pay off the loans and save his business. He is grateful for the help he received, and he is warning other small business owners about the dangers of merchant advance loans.

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Small businesses are the backbone of the economy, and they need access to capital in order to grow and succeed. If you’re a small business owner who is looking to refinance a loan with Access Plus Capital, visit www.accesspluscapital.com to protect your business and ensure its success.

We provide start-up, working capital, equipment, and real estate loans for many industries like restaurants & food trucks, retail, professional services, and small manufacturers. Contact us at www.accesspluscapital.com/contact

Kattia Gomez: Bridging Dreams at Access Plus Capital

September 18, 2023

In the heart of Access Plus Capital (APC), there’s a dedicated individual who’s not just part of the team but a crucial bridge between the organization and the communities we serve. Meet Kattia Gomez, our Portfolio Quality Analyst, whose unique background, love for languages, and unwavering commitment to our CDFI mission have made her an invaluable asset.

Kattia’s Role at Access Plus Capital: Building Bridges to Success

In her role as the Portfolio Quality Analyst at Access Plus Capital, Kattia Gomez serves as a vital link between our organization and our clients. She collaborates closely with internal departments such as Business Services, Underwriting, Processing, and Finance to provide professional and accurate support to our clients. Access Plus Capital, as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), is committed to the financial success of our clients, and Kattia plays a crucial role in making this happen.

A Background Rooted in Finance and Entrepreneurship

Kattia’s journey began in Costa Rica, where her father’s entrepreneurial spirit kindled her interest in sales and business. Visiting her father’s shoe factory, she built her soft skills and developed a profound love for numbers. At the age of 29, Kattia took a bold step, leaving her home country for the USA – a life decision driven by a thirst for new experiences.

Coming from a diverse background with experience in both private and public banks, Kattia honed her financial administration skills. Today, at APC, Kattia plays a pivotal role in enhancing our processes and safeguarding our clients’ financial well-being. Her responsibilities span various domains, including accounting, client management, and compliance.

Language as a Bridge to Success

One of Kattia’s most remarkable talents is her bilingualism. She’s not just fluent in Spanish and English but has even ventured into learning Japanese at one point. Her experience attending bilingual schools in her youth gave her a profound understanding of the challenges posed by language barriers.

At APC, Kattia’s linguistic prowess transcends the role of interpreter. It’s a powerful tool that helps us connect with the Hispanic community, making them feel at ease. This ability to bridge the language gap aligns perfectly with APC’s mission to provide financial resources and guidance to all, regardless of language barriers.

Empowering Communities through Access Plus Capital and CDFI

Kattia’s work directly benefits the communities and individuals that Access Plus Capital serves. By building strong financial relationships with clients, offering support during the life of their loans, and guiding them toward success, she embodies our mission as a CDFI.

In Kattia’s view, the CDFI mission is paramount because it embraces people’s dreams and goals where other financial institutions might not take the risk. APC’s contributions to the community change lives and uplift dreams, making the CDFI mission indispensable.

Parting Lessons and a Call to Action

Kattia’s parting advice for those inspired to make a difference and contribute to APC’s success is clear: for organizations, continued funding is crucial to support CDFIs’ impactful work, and for individuals, she encourages those with a passion for community service to keep pushing forward. It’s gratifying to see dreams come true, and with determination and commitment, the possibilities are endless.

Kattia Gomez’s journey, expertise, and dedication are a testament to the power of determination and community engagement. She not only enriches Access Plus Capital but also empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners to achieve their dreams. It is a pleasure to highlight Kattia Gomez.

Learn More about Access Plus Capital

If you’re inspired by Kattia’s story and want to discover how Access Plus Capital helps entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve their dreams through our loan products and technical assistance programs, we invite you to explore our website and get in touch with us today. Together, we can make dreams a reality.

Tips for Small Business Success

August 23, 2023

Starting and running a small business is a lot of work, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. If you’re looking to start or grow your small business, here are a few tips to help you succeed:

Create a business plan.

A business plan is a roadmap for your business. It should outline your goals, strategies, and financial projections. A well-written business plan can help you attract investors, secure loans, and make better business decisions.

Market your business effectively.

There are many ways to market your business, including online marketing, print advertising, and word-of-mouth. It’s important to choose the marketing channels that are right for your business and to track your results so you can see what’s working and what’s not.

Get the right financing.

There are many different types of financing available to small businesses, including loans, and equity investments. It’s important to compare your financing options and choose the one that’s right for your business.

Build a strong team.

The success of your business depends on the people you hire. Make sure you hire employees who are talented, motivated, and share your vision for the business.

Provide excellent customer service.

Customer service is one of the most important things you can do to keep your customers happy and coming back for more. Make sure you are responsive to customer inquiries and that you go above and beyond to meet their needs.

Never give up.

Starting and running a small business is hard work, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. There will be times when you want to give up, but it’s important to persevere. If you have a great idea and you’re willing to work hard, you can achieve your goals.

Access Plus Capital offers technical assistance to businesses that are seeking to start up, expand, or improve their operations. This assistance can include help with business planning, marketing, and financial management. We believe that by providing this assistance, we can help businesses to succeed and to contribute to the economic growth of our community.

To learn more about our technical assistance services, visit our website at www.accesspluscapital.com/contact/.

August is Black Business Month

August 23, 2023

Black-owned businesses in Central California are an essential part of the economy. According to the 2021 State of Black Business in California report by the California Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC), Black businesses employ over 50,000 people and generate over $1 billion in annual revenue. They provide a wide range of essential services, including food, healthcare, and transportation. They also reinvest their profits back into their communities, supporting local schools, charities, and other organizations.

The CBCC also reported Black businesses are concentrated in the industries of construction; retail; food and beverage; professional and business services; and transportation and warehousing. Some of the major challenges that Black-owned businesses face include:

Access to capital
Lack of business education and training
Discrimination, and
Redlining

Despite these challenges, black-owned businesses in Central California are making a significant contribution to the region’s economy and community. They are creating jobs, providing essential services, and supporting local communities. In addition to the economic benefits, black-owned businesses also play an important role in promoting diversity and inclusion. They help to create a more vibrant and equitable society for all.

In honor of Black Business Month, here are a few ways you can support black-owned businesses in Central California:

Shop at black-owned businesses.
Invest in black-owned businesses.
Volunteer your time to black-owned businesses.
Educate yourself about the challenges facing black-owned businesses, and
Advocate for policies that support black-owned businesses.

So, this Black Business Month, let’s show our support for black-owned businesses in Central California. Together, we can make a difference.

Employee Highlight: Hasan Muhammad

August 23, 2023

In the heart of our mission to eliminate economic barriers and foster financial success, we are delighted to spotlight Hasan Muhammad, our dedicated Financial Literacy Training Specialist at Access Plus Capital. Hasan’s role perfectly aligns with our commitment to providing underinvested communities with access to capital and knowledge that transforms lives.

“My goal is to let the community know we are here to provide hope, opportunity, and education. That begins with financial knowledge and intelligence.”

Hasan’s journey has been defined by his commitment to making financial literacy accessible. Drawing from his 8-10 years of experience in the financial services industry, he recognized the critical gap in knowledge within marginalized communities. Hasan believes in the power of knowledge and the mantra that “it is not what we make, it is what we keep.”

As a Financial Literacy Training Specialist, Hasan engages with the community, imparting financial education to individuals who have been underserved by traditional financial institutions. His journey from the corporate world, where accessibility was limited, to Access Plus Capital, where access to capital and resources is our mission, reflects Hasan’s unwavering passion for making a tangible difference.

Hasan embodies our values and beliefs. When it comes to our clients, he passionately states, “we don’t see risk, we see potential.” His commitment extends beyond education; he advocates for businesses to create awareness and work together to uplift their community. With wisdom from books like “The Richest Man in Babylon,” Darryl emphasizes discipline and smart choices as key to growing wealth.

Hasan Muhammad’’s dedication illuminates the path to financial empowerment, reminding us that the CDFI (community development financial institution) mission is more than just financial assistance. It’s about belief, support, and enabling communities to thrive. We celebrate Hasan’s impactful journey at Access Plus Capital and his relentless pursuit of a brighter, more financially literate future.

PRESS RELEASE: Access Plus Capital Secures Historic Building for Economic Development

August 9, 2023

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Fresno, CA – Access Plus Capital, a nonprofit mission-based small business lender, announces the purchase of the 6,106 square foot historic Physicians Building, located in the heart of downtown Fresno at 2607 Fresno Street, Fresno, CA.

Tate Hill, President of Access Plus Capital describes “this purchase is good for economic development and small business in our region.” President Hill furthers, “We are cementing our commitment to downtown Fresno and creating space for small business owners.”

Economic development leaders in Fresno are motivated about Access Plus Capital’s commitment. Lee Ann Eager, President/CEO of Fresno County Economic Development Corporation and former board chair agrees, “…with an expanded space, Access Plus Capital can provide more tailored financial solutions, empowering local businesses to flourish while fueling inclusive economic growth and prosperity within the community.”

The purchase of the Physicians Building is a significant milestone for Access Plus Capital. The building will serve as the organization’s new headquarters, and it will also be used to provide space for small businesses and community organizations.
The purchase of the building is a sign of Access Plus Capital’s commitment to downtown Fresno and to the economic development of the region. “APC is a key piece of the puzzle for how we continue to build up our Downtown, creating inclusive
economic opportunity,” as Elliott Balch, current board chair and CEO of Fresno Downtown Partnership shares.The building is located in a prime location, and it is expected to be a catalyst for economic growth in the area.

About Access Plus Capital

Access Plus Capital (APC) is a US Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution headquartered in Fresno, CA that works to eliminate economic barriers to financial success through fair and equitable community investment. APC serves Central California small businesses in a 14-county region with affordable capital[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Download the press release below.
Access Plus Capital – Press Release – New location at 2607 Fresno Street in Fresno v2 (1)[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Access Plus Capital Shares its New Downtown Fresno Home

August 9, 2023

Access Plus Capital, a nonprofit mission-based small business lender, is excited to announce the purchasing of its new headquarters in downtown Fresno. The 6,106 square foot building was purchased by Access Plus Capital in 2023.

“We are excited to open our new headquarters in downtown Fresno,” said Tate Hill, President of Access Plus Capital. “This building is a symbol of our commitment to the city and our mission to help small businesses grow and succeed. We believe that this location will be a catalyst for economic growth in the area.”

The new headquarters is located at the historic Physicians Building, which was built in 1923 and was originally home to a group of doctors. The building is located in a prime location in downtown Fresno, just steps from the Fulton Mall and the Fresno Convention Center. The building is also close to a number of other businesses and organizations, making it a convenient location for small businesses and community organizations to lease space.

In addition to its headquarters, Access Plus Capital will also use the Physicians Building to provide space for small businesses and community organizations. The organization is committed to providing affordable capital and one-on-one coaching to small businesses in the Central Valley. Access Plus Capital has deployed over $50 million to 900 businesses since its inception, largely to entrepreneurs of color, start-ups and women-owned businesses.

“We are proud to be a part of the downtown Fresno community,” said Hill. “We believe that this building will be a valuable asset to the city and we look forward to serving our customers and partners from this location for many years to come.”

Access Plus Capital looks forward to moving into the new building towards the end of the year.

The article from The Business Journal can be found here: https://thebusinessjournal.com/access-plus-capital-shares-its-new-downtown-fresno-home/.

Special thanks to Lee Ann Eager, President/CEO of Fresno County Economic Development Corporation, Elliott Balch, CEO of Downtown Fresno Partnership and Terance Frazier of TFS Investments for their support of our new headquarters. Your investment in our organization is making a difference in the lives of small businesses in the Central Valley.

Source: The Business Journal
Title: Access Plus Capital Shares its New Downtown Fresno Home

Access Plus Capital moving to historic Physicians Building, providing resources to small businesses

August 9, 2023

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Access Plus Capital is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), which means that it is a mission-driven lender that provides loans and other financial services to underserved communities.
Access Plus Capital is committed to helping small businesses in the Central Valley grow and succeed.
The new headquarters will allow Access Plus Capital to serve more small businesses and community organizations in the area.
The Physicians Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
We believe that the opening of our new headquarters is a significant milestone for Access Plus Capital and for the downtown Fresno community. We are excited to continue our mission of helping small businesses grow and succeed in this new location.

Access Plus Capital, a nonprofit mission-based small business lender, is excited to announce the purchasing of its new headquarters in the historic Physicians Building in downtown Fresno. The 6,106 square foot building was purchased by Access Plus Capital in 2023.

“We are excited to open our new headquarters in the historic Physicians Building,” said Tate Hill, President of Access Plus Capital. “This building is a symbol of our commitment to the city and our mission to help small businesses grow and succeed. We believe that this location will be a catalyst for economic growth in the area.”

Access Plus Capital looks forward to moving into the new building towards the end of the year.

The article from ABC30 can be found here: https://abc30.com/physicians-building-access-plus-capital-downtown-fresno-new-businesses/13619340/.

Source: ABC 30 Action News
Title: Access Plus Capital moving to historic Physicians Building, providing resources to small businesses

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Employee Spotlight: Ernest Ramirez

July 18, 2023

In this month’s employee spotlight, we shine a light on Ernest, the Portfolio Manager at Access Plus Capital (APC). Ernest’s story is one of dedication, compassion, and a commitment to helping small businesses thrive.

As the portfolio manager, Ernest oversees the day-to-day operations of APC’s loan portfolio. His primary responsibility is to manage loan payments from all borrowers. Each month, he diligently ensures that every payment is received by pulling reports and following up on any non-payment issues. This requires him to employ creative strategies and build strong relationships with borrowers, ultimately maintaining a high repayment rate.

What sets APC apart is its dedication to being resourceful and supportive of its clients, especially when they face hardships or difficulties in their businesses. Unlike other lenders who often resort to foreclosure or liquidation processes, APC takes a different approach. Ernest and his team first explore options to restructure loans or interest payments, offering assistance with financial forecasting. They prioritize helping clients before considering repossession or delinquency, aligning with APC’s mission and core values of building trust and leaving no dreams behind.

Ernest’s motivation to join APC stems from his personal experience. Growing up, he witnessed his mother, a sole proprietor, navigate the challenges of running a business. He was humbled by the opportunity to assist businesses similar to his mother’s when he joined APC. His inspiration lies in providing his community with access to vital business lending, empowering local entrepreneurs and fostering economic development.

The impact Ernest has made through his role is evident in the high repayment percentage achieved by APC. By effectively collecting payments from current borrowers, the organization can redistribute these funds back into the community to support new clients with much-needed funding. This cyclical process of funding and refund recycling creates opportunities for sustained economic growth.

When asked about advice for others, Ernest emphasizes the importance of collaboration with community partners and organizations. He encourages leveraging these relationships to spread awareness about the mission of CDFIs. Ernest acknowledges that reaching untapped borrowers who are unaware of the opportunities provided by CDFIs would be a monumental task on his own. Through networking, co-hosting events, and sharing the CDFI mission, Ernest has experienced the power of collective impact. By connecting with others, he has significantly increased the reach and influence of APC, making a meaningful difference in his community.
Ernest also highlights the need to extend CDFI education and resources to even the smallest towns, which often lack access to such information. By reaching these communities, APC can empower more entrepreneurs, enhance financial literacy, and contribute to inclusive economic growth.

Ernest’s dedication and passion for his work at Access Plus Capital exemplify the values and mission of the organization. Through his role as Portfolio Manager, he continues to make a positive impact by supporting local businesses, fostering financial stability, and spreading awareness about the invaluable services provided by CDFIs.

Jay Cortez: A Father’s Journey of Resilience and Legacy

June 15, 2023

In 2019, as Jay Cortez- Thomas eagerly awaited the arrival of his son, he faced an unexpected setback. His position at one of the largest digital marketing companies in the US was terminated, leaving him without his full severance. With a new house to support and limited job opportunities, Jay found himself at a crossroads. Determined to provide for his growing family, Jay decided to take a leap of faith and start his own “tailor-made” marketing firm. With the support of Access Plus Capital (APC), Jay obtained a loan that gave him the much-needed jump-start to care for his family and build a lasting legacy.

Grateful for the opportunity provided by APC, Jay acknowledges that the loan afforded him the ability to be a provider and create a cultural staple where black men take care of their families, regardless of their partners’ employment status. During the pandemic, Jay launched a podcast focusing on black men and fatherhood, leading him to join a focus group and develop the Black Fatherhood Legacy Program in collaboration with the Black Wellness and Prosperity Center (BWPC). Through monthly workshops, the BWPC equips fathers with the tools to nurture, protect, and provide for their children.

Reflecting on the importance of balancing business ownership and fatherhood, Jay advises others to find a harmonious balance between making money and cherishing precious moments with their children. Father’s Day holds profound meaning for Jay as it symbolizes a legacy passed down through generations, breaking the cycle of fatherlessness. To celebrate, Jay simply desires the presence of his children and advocates for spending quality time at home with loved ones.

As a black-owned digital marketing company, Jay invites support from fellow business owners and encourages them to visit www.tailormademktg.com to witness the excellence of his work and to support his previous clients. J’s journey exemplifies resilience and the determination to build a legacy, embodying the values of fatherhood and leaving a lasting impact for his son and future generations.

To further support, listen to the Black Fatherhood Legacy Podcast here and visit the Black Wellness & Prosperity Center https://www.blackwpc.org/ – a dedicated organization to the Black community in California’s Central Valley with the goal of improving Black Maternal and Infant Health outcomes.

Employee Spotlight: Siah Moua: A Champion for Underserved Communities

June 15, 2023

At Access Plus Capital, we believe that our team members are the heartbeat of our organization. This month, we shine the spotlight on Siah Moua, one of our dedicated employees.

In the heart of Fresno, a city brimming with diversity and vibrant cultures, one woman’s extraordinary journey has become a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and the pursuit of a dream. Siah Moua, the Loan Processing Manager at Access Plus Capital, has devoted her life to helping underserved communities achieve their American dreams, driven by her own remarkable history as a refugee.

In 2000, Siah’s path led her to the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC), where she joined their refugee program as the Asset Development and Credit Specialist, providing funding to support Central Asian farmers. The completion of the refugee resettlement program marked the beginning of a new chapter for Fresno EOC—one that would transform into the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) we know today as Access Plus Capital.

Reflecting on her journey, Siah states, “I strongly believe that the lending aspect started from the resettlement program, where we provided microloans to the Southeast Asian settlement farmers.” This deep understanding of the transformative power of financial support for underserved communities became the cornerstone of her work.

After some time away from the Fresno EOC, Siah rejoined Access Plus Capital in March 2023, as the Loan Processing Manager, bringing with her a wealth of experience and an unyielding passion for community empowerment. Siah’s dedication to Access Plus Capital’s mission stems from her belief that traditional financial institutions often overlook the needs of small businesses seeking loans below $500,000. With her return, Siah stepped into a newly established managerial position, recognizing the necessity of her role in bridging the gap between the organization’s aspirations and the community’s aspirations.

“I came back to give back to our community,” Siah explains. “The mission of Access Plus Capital is so important because our underserved communities have been left behind by the real financial organizations.” She emphasizes the crucial role CDFIs play in transforming dreams into reality for individuals and businesses that would otherwise struggle to secure financial support.

Drawing from her personal journey as a refugee, Siah carries a profound sense of purpose and responsibility. Her experiences have shaped her commitment to empowering underserved communities through the Access Plus Capital network. Recognizing the unique challenges they face, Siah states, “We do great work at Access Plus Capital, and we have helped so many underserved small business owners. Yet, we haven’t reached out to everybody. If we quit now, who will they turn to?”

Siah’s unwavering commitment and passion for serving our community have made a significant impact on our clients and their journey toward financial empowerment. Thank you, Siah, for your exceptional work!

Celebrating Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month

May 9, 2023

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is a month-long observance in the United States that takes place every May. It is a time to celebrate and honor the contributions and achievements of Americans of Asian and Pacific Islander descent in various fields, including culture, history, science, politics, and the arts.

The celebration was first established in 1978 as a week-long event in the United States, but it was later expanded to a month-long observance in 1992. The month of May was chosen to commemorate the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1843, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad, which was largely built by Chinese immigrants, on May 10, 1869.

Throughout the month, various events, festivals, and activities are held to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders to American society. These events aim to promote cultural understanding and awareness, celebrate diversity, and foster a greater appreciation for the richness and diversity of the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.

Happy Financial Literacy Month

April 5, 2023

April is Financial Literacy Month, and it’s the perfect time to take a step back and evaluate our financial knowledge and habits. As small business owners or soon-to-be business owners, you know the importance of financial literacy for the success of your business. This month, we’ll be focusing on all things financial literacy, tailored specifically to the needs and challenges of small business owners in the Central Valley.

From understanding cash flow and managing debt to saving for future investments and navigating taxes, our goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to make informed financial decisions and build a more secure financial future for your business. We’ll also be highlighting business owner success stories, resources and programs available at Access Plus Capital that can help support and grow your business.

So, get ready to learn, grow, and take control of your finances as a small business owner. Let’s make this Financial Literacy Month one to remember, and ensure the continued success of your business.To start, here are five financial literacy tips that can help you to better manage your finances, plan for the future, and grow your business:

Keep Track of Your Finances:

To ensure financial success for your small business, it’s important to stay on top of your finances by keeping accurate and up-to-date records of your income, expenses, and cash flow. This information can help you identify trends, make informed decisions, and plan for future growth.

Create a Budget:

Having a budget in place is a critical aspect of financial literacy. It helps you to determine how much money you need to cover expenses, make investments, and grow your business. Create a budget that includes both your fixed and variable expenses, and be sure to revisit it regularly to make any necessary adjustments.

Manage Your Cash Flow:

Cash flow management is essential for small businesses. Make sure you have a system in place to track when payments are due and when bills need to be paid. Consider using accounting software to automate this process and stay organized.

Plan for Taxes:

Understanding tax laws and regulations is key to financial literacy for small business owners. Make sure to consult with a tax professional to ensure that you are in compliance and taking advantage of any tax benefits that apply to your business.

Build an Emergency Fund:

It’s important to be prepared for unexpected expenses or events, such as a sudden drop in sales or a major equipment malfunction. Consider setting aside a portion of your business income in an emergency fund to help you weather these events and keep your business on track.

By following these tips, small business owners can develop the financial literacy skills they need to achieve success. At Access Plus Capital we provide you with the right tools and information so that you can be confident in your ability to make informed financial decisions and grow your business. Learn more about all of our technical assistance and business service programs:

https://accesspluscapital.com/business-services/.

Access Plus Capital Photography Competition – Submit Your Best Photo of Fresno Community and Win $500

March 14, 2023

We are inviting local photographers to submit an image that captures the essence of the Fresno community, in line with our theme for this year, Dreaming into Reality: Putting the Valley First. The winning photograph will be featured on the cover of our report, which will showcase the incredible impact that our organization has had on the local economy and the lives of people in our community.

As a non-profit, we are committed to putting the Valley first and supporting the dreams of local entrepreneurs and business owners. We encourage all photographers in the Central Valley community to apply and submit their best images. The winning photographer will receive a cash prize of $500, and their photograph will be featured on the cover of our report, which will be distributed to our partners, donors, and community members. To apply, simply complete this Google form

Please include your name, contact information, and a brief description of your photograph. We look forward to seeing the amazing photographs that showcase the beauty and spirit of Fresno!

Celebrating Black History Month: The Impact and Resilience of Black-Owned Businesses

February 23, 2023

As we celebrate Black History Month, we honor the extraordinary deeds Black-owned businesses have contributed to our nation. With innovation and creativity, Black entrepreneurs and business owners have played an important role in community development, job creation, and representation in all sectors of industry. In the latest Census Bureau business data, there were an estimated 140,918 Black- or African-American-owned businesses with 1.3 million employees, $42.2 billion in annual payroll, and $141.1 billion in annual receipts. If Black-owned businesses were a country, their annual contribution alone would make this group the 56th wealthiest nation in the world according to Worldometer.info.

This fiscal achievement, however, stemmed from great economic and employment loss. In 2020, Black-owned businesses were disproportionately affected by the pandemic which contributed to the closing of 41% of Black-owned US businesses in two short months from February to April (Fairlie, 2020). In the present day, Black unemployment rate remains above that for the overall population and has not quite returned to its pre-pandemic level (Faucher, 2023). In spite of these challenges, the pandemic coupled with racially charged violence led to corporation and government financial pledges aimed to support and close the equity gap of Black-owned businesses.

Financially charged, 2022 brought programs focused on building supportive ecosystems for Black-owned US businesses that were critical to black upward mobility. Throughout the business-building process, Black business owners face economic, market, sociocultural, and institutional barriers, which are all linked to racial discrimination in the United States (Baboolall et al, 2023). Programs that build economic opportunity throughout the business life cycle will support the growth and success of Black-owned businesses.

In 2023, Access Plus Capital welcomes a new horizon. We believe the growth of Black-owned businesses is more than just funding. Our investment and grant-funded programs come with the support of preparing your business for funding through education, networking, and business coaching. Closing racial gaps across the economy are not only about righting historical wrongs. It is also about choosing a more dynamic future and realizing the full potential of Black talent, to the benefit of all Americans. When Black businesses succeed. The United States economy succeeds. Happy Black History Month.

CDFIs and the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

January 16, 2023

On the night of his assassination, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was just two weeks away from leading a major march in Washington D.C. against poverty. His plan was to bombard the decision-makers in D.C. with the plight of the disinvested and economically destitute Americans in a way that would be unignorable.

The plan named the Poor People’s Campaign, brought together the poor in America in a coordinated, multiracial demonstration to achieve relief from their suffering through economic reform. The structure of the campaign was a culmination of the lessons King learned from the boycotts, the sit-ins, and the marches on Birmingham and Selma. It was strategically designed to be a powerful, interruptive, and dramatic show of non-violent force that would persist until Congress agreed to meet the demands of the American poor.

The five demands were distilled into an “Economic Bill of Rights” which insisted Congress provide:

A meaningful job at a living wage for every employable citizen.
A secure and adequate income for all who cannot find jobs or for whom employment is inappropriate.
Access to land as a means to income and livelihood.
Access to capital for the poor and minorities to develop businesses
The right of the people to play a truly significant role in the government.

King was killed before the campaign began, and while his successor Ralph Abernathy led the charge well, they were unsuccessful in securing the sweeping reforms they demanded.

In the 55 years since the Poor People’s Campaign created its Economic Bill of Rights, neither poverty nor racism has been resolved and the same demand for social and economic justice continues to sound. New leaders have continued to fight for the rights of the poor, minority, and underinvested communities and some progress has been made, one such development being the creation of the community development financial institution, known as a CDFI.

For us at Access Plus Captial, it is in the fourth demand of the Economic Bill of Rights that we are able to see the contribution of our work to the fulfillment of King’s vision. We strive daily to eliminate economic barriers to financial success through fair and equitable community lending and investment, and we carry out this work with the hope of one day seeing a Central Valley where access to capital is no longer a barrier to success.

Small businesses are the primary vehicles through which new jobs are created and without new businesses entering the community marketplace, residents are forced to spend their money outside of their communities and abandon their neighborhoods in search of viable employment opportunities elsewhere. Without access to the capital needed to build for themselves, the residents of neglected communities continue to be held captive to the priorities of others. Small business is the backbone of the American economy and community businesses are the backbone of the neighborhood.

A study conducted by the Small Business Administration found that more than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and small businesses create about two-thirds of new jobs in the U.S. each year. CDFIs play a pivotal role in the creation, education, and sustenance of minority-owned small businesses and affordable housing within historically excluded and disinvested communities, the very communities King considered as he penned the Economic Bill of Rights.

As we honor King’s legacy, let us not reduce him to a collection of feel-good quotes and utopian dreams. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., at his core, was a radical, passionate, and strategic activist with an eye on the future and a burning commitment to dismantling injustice in all of its forms, even at the cost of his life.

It is our goal to be just as passionate in our work for economic justice as we carry the torch of change for our generation and generations to come.

2022 Wrapped

December 21, 2022

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As we end 2022 and set our sights on 2023 we are excited to share our APC version of “Wrapped.”

In 2022 we…

Reached and surpassed a landmark $50 million dollars in loans deployed since our opening in 2008!
Funded our 1,500th Loan!
Celebrated our 14th anniversary!
Added 9 new team members to the APC Family!
Moved our Bakersfield team into a shiny, new office!

None of this could be accomplished without the continued support of our partners, colleagues, funders, and friends.

As you finalize your end-of-year giving, we ask that you consider making a contribution to the work of Access Plus Capital, having full confidence that your financial support is going directly to the small business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and historically underbanked and underfunded communities who need access to capital the most.[/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”Donate Today” color=”green” align=”center” button_block=”true” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fdonorbox.org%2Faccess-plus-capital-giving%3Futm_source%3DAccess%2BPlus%2BCapital%2BNewsletter%26utm_campaign%3D0b61c6377d-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2022_12_14_08_07%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_term%3D0_-0b61c6377d-%255BLIST_EMAIL_ID%255D”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The California Rebuilding Fund: A Promising Model for Effective Community Partnering in Lending

December 14, 2022

November brought the close of a 2-year California Rebuilding Loan Fund program, a monumental loan product offered by the State of California to assist small businesses adversely impacted by the COVID-19 shutdowns.

In the greatest time of need, California supported its small business owners by creating one of the most affordable loan products offered by the state.

“The beauty of the California Rebuilding Loan Fund was its streamlined loan process,” said Janay E. Conley, Business Development Manager at Access Plus Capital. “From application through loan origination, borrowers were able to gain access to funds more quickly. The program was a direct response to the COVID-19 crisis and was geared towards getting the funds into the hands of small business owners so that they could get back to business.

The State chose to work with CDFIs because of the work that we do. Historically, CDFIs have been a conduit to support funding efforts in communities most impacted by systematic barriers.

The loan was attainable to the average small business owner, requiring minimal paperwork and allowing for lower credit scores than what we’ve seen in the past. Clients were able to receive their funds quickly, within a matter of weeks, and this was important as there was a great need for capital.”

Conley emphasized the importance of having the right partners in the right place at the right time, saying “It was a direct emergency response program, and every partner was on one accord with one goal: to get the funds into the hands of the business owners. This concerted effort allowed business owners to better weather the uncertainty of the pandemic.

The program design and success of the California Rebuilding Loan Fund clearly demonstrated the importance of being responsive to the needs of the community and creating accessible, affordable, and easily deployable programs.

The Fund is a viable template for future community investment across the nation, not just for emergency loans, but for any loan programs serving under-resourced communities.”

Access Plus Capital was privileged to be one of twelve CDFIs in California selected to participate in the California Rebuilding Loan Fund. During the course of the program, APC provided 36 loans to struggling entrepreneurs, pre-loan and post-loan technical assistance, and deployed $1.9 million in capital.

For more information, please contact Janay E. Conley at janay.conley@accesspluscapital.com

Financial Equity and Capital Gaps in Fresno County

December 2, 2022

December 7th we teamed up with our friends and colleagues at Funding Fresno and the Central Valley Community Foundation to co-host an important and engaging conversation around the newly released findings of the Fresno Small Business Capital Flows and Gap Analysis survey.

Participants learned of the $3 billion capital gap in Fresno County and the importance of the small business ecosystem and economic mobility. A lively Q&A discussion explored causes and potential remedies for closing the $3 billion gap and thoughtfully examined the contribution of racial and financial inequities to local funding priorities and definitions of risk and loan readiness.

The diverse panel of local leaders shared the impact of the findings from philanthropic, banking and lending, business support, and economic development perspectives.

A special thank you to Jason Friedman with Friedman Associates, Matt Brewster with P2Advisors, Fresno DRIVE’s Betting Big on Small Businesses, all of the panelists, and the Funding Fresno Collaborative. Also, a special thank you to The Heron Foundation for supporting the study.

Lunch for the event was catered by Access Plus Capital client PS Productions, home of PS Grill & Ice. You can watch a preview of the event by checking out the video below.

Support Local Businesses in Underserved Communities

November 23, 2022

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It’s almost the end of the year, and we’re reflecting on how our local businesses have thrived in 2022. As a way to support them as they continue to grow, we’re announcing our Year End Giving.

Our mission at Access Plus Capital is to grow businesses in underserved communities. We’ve been fortunate enough to help hundreds of entrepreneurs realize their dreams, and now we want to make sure that our community has the tools they need to continue growing.

We’ve set our goal this year at $15,000, which will go towards financial literacy education and small business advocacy here in the Central Valley.

This holiday season, join us in making a difference in your community by donating whatever you can afford. Every dollar counts! [/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fdonorbox.org%2Faccess-plus-capital-giving|target:_blank” size=”big” btn_width=”btn_full_width” button_alignment=”btn_center”]Donate Today[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

California Entrepreneurial Breakfast with Madam Director Tara Lynn Gray

October 11, 2022

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Access Plus Capital is proud to participate in the 2022 California Economic Summit in Bakersfield. The Summit, held on October 27-28th, will bring together people from across California for a two-day event that includes panels, workshops, and networking opportunities.

As part of the Summit, we will host a California Entrepreneurial Breakfast.

Our featured guest will be Madam Director Tara Lynn Gray. Madam Director Tara Lynn Gray served as CEO of the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Foundation. In March of 2021, she was appointed as the new Director of the California Office of the Small Business Advocate California (CalOSBA). CalOSBA serves as the voice of small businesses, representing their views and interests across the state and advocating for equitable access to capital, markets, and networks so that all California small businesses successfully start, manage, grow and become more resilient.

Madam Director Tara Lynn Gray is one of the most passionate and dedicated supporters of small businesses. She will share her experiences with us and advise us on how we can grow as entrepreneurs in Kern County. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1665164017030{border-left-width: 5px !important;padding-left: 30px !important;border-left-color: #f9f105 !important;border-left-style: solid !important;}”]

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PRESS RELEASE: Access Plus Capital Restructures; Names New Vice Presidents

October 5, 2022

Access Plus Capital Restructures;

Names New Vice Presidents

Access Plus Capital announces the creation of the Impact Department and appointment of four vice presidents

FRESNO, CALIFORNIA – October 5, 2022 – Access Plus Capital, a community development financial institution (CDFI) serving the Central Valley under the leadership of President Tate Hill, announced today the creation of its new impact department and the appointment of four new vice presidents.

In 2021, Access Plus Capital saw record growth in loan and capital deployment. Hill reorganized the leadership team to support organizational performance and team development goals and to align with the organization’s 5-year strategic plan to deploy $43 million in new loans by 2026.

Hill approves, “These are a great set of leaders in their own rights who will enable us to reach greater heights and help us get closer to making access to capital no longer a barrier to success.”

Current team members receiving promotions are Vice President of Finance Pamela Mostert, former business services manager, and Vice President of Lending Baldev Birk, former director of finance and risk management.

Joining the team are Melissa Soto, vice president of administration, and Cherella J. Nicholson, vice president of impact, a new department formed to track, measure, and inform community need and program impact.

About Access Plus Capital

Access Plus Capital (APC) is a mission-driven small business loan fund. Since its inception in 2008, APC has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs throughout its 14-county Central California territory to launch, maintain, and grow their businesses by providing funding and training designed to help business owners succeed and realize their dreams.

The mission of Access Plus Capital is to eliminate economic barriers to financial success through fair and equitable community investment.

For more information please contact:

Janelle Warren-Evans

Communications Specialist

(559) 905-5987

janelle.warren-evans@accesspluscapital.com

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PRESS RELEASE: Access Plus Capital Helps Keep Central Valley Communities Prosperous in 2021

September 20, 2022

Access Plus Capital Helps Keep Central Valley Communities Prosperous in 2021

Fresno, CA – Small business loans are a critical component of economic development in Central Valley’s underinvested communities. The new Impact Report released by Access Plus Capital, a mission-driven small business loan fund, shows the organization’s efforts to keep these communities prosperous, with $5+ million in funding and 105 businesses funded during 2021.

75% of this funding was provided to minority-owned businesses, and 43% to women-owned enterprises. From 2020 to 2021, Access Plus Capital doubled the amount of funding provided to Spanish businesses (37%), with many black-owned and Asian-owned businesses in Kern County receiving 46% of the funding, where the effects of the pandemic severely hurt business owners.

“We recognized the disparities in Kern County, and we intentionally turned our focus toward supporting the business community there,” said Tate Hill, Access Plus Capital Executive Director. “We worked closely with the City of Bakersfield, strengthened our partnerships with Kern County business chambers, and began a recruitment campaign to bring the best business development resources to the residents of these urban and rural communities.”

Access Plus Capital deployed more than $2 million in COVID-19 relief to struggling businesses and attracted new funding to support microenterprises. The company also participated in the collaborative work of Fresno Drive Initiative, delivering coaching support, technical assistance, and training to over 30 black female entrepreneurs.

To broaden its mission of serving historically disinvested communities, Access Plus Capital added new positions and launched a Business Services Department in 2021. The new department will offer start-up businesses and entrepreneurs business formation assistance, consulting, credit counseling, and more.

“This was a pivotal year for the Central Valley small business community – a year of recovery, a year of growth, and a year of strategizing for the future. This was a year of repositioning for success,” said Tate Hill. “Looking ever forward, 2021 has set us on a trajectory of growth and success, and we will use this momentum to invest in our community for many years to come.”

About Access Plus Capital

Access Plus Capital (formerly Fresno CDFI) offers financing, training, and asset development services for low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs. Since its inception in 2009, the multilingual staff – experienced in micro-finance, credit counseling, business plan development, and advocacy for low-income families – has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs realize their dreams. Access Plus Capital serves a 14-county region in Central California and is a subsidiary of the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC). More information can be found here: www.AccessPlusCapital.com.

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Meet the Team: Buffie

May 27, 2022

We’re excited to introduce you to Buffie Norby, Access Plus Capitals Business Services Specialist in our Bakersfield Office. Recently, we asked Buffy a little about herself, her new role with Access Plus Capital, and what she’s looking to accomplish in this role. Please get to know Buffie and how the role she plays in your loan process!

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

I am the Business Services Specialist, I provide technical assistance to business owners who have received a loan from APC. I also help with special projects and community outreach about APC.

How has your past work experience prepared you for your new role at Access Plus Capital?

I have always been a business-minded person helping entrepreneurs and small business owners grow or upscale their businesses so coming to APC, I just continued what I do best.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

Community involvement, enriching the lives of my peers, community leaders, and the general public by showing them they can complete the task to make their dreams come true.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

Helping them build and achieve their dreams.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

The Dream Fund; helping new business owners or entrepreneurs learn about running and growing their business to achieve the success they want and then a grant when they are done with the course is the best.

What are some of your outside-of-work hobbies and interests?

I am actually very active in the Bakersfield community. I am a member of the Westchester and Arvin/Lamont Kiwanis. I volunteer for Gleaners disturbing food to our local senior citizens twice a month. I mentor, transitional foster youth, and single parents. I work with a group of small business owners through my church and volunteer for any organizations that ask. My main hobby is spending time with my 6 grandchildren.

Meet the Team – Breanna

October 6, 2021

Tons of paperwork and coordination are necessary to finalize a business loan, and it takes a special kind of person to manage all the details. Thankfully, Loan Processing Analyst Breanna is that special kind of person! Brenna’s energy, personality, and team spirit make her perfect for this position, as you’ll see in our latest Meet the Team interview.

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

Coming from a banking background I was working as a bank teller with Self-Help Federal Credit Union for three years. Prior to that, I was a Financial Service Representative at Central Valley Community Bank before becoming a part of the Access Plus Capital Team.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

I am the new Loan Processing Analyst, I assist with processing the loans, funding loans, and any other duties that are assigned to me.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

My favorite part is seeing all the funding that Access Plus Capital gets to provide to new and existing businesses to get them opened or help keep the business up and running.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

Being able to help local business owners with funding resources, getting them approved at low annual percentage rates. Helping our business owners reach their working capital to help keep their business running and successful.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

The latest project I have done was a Bakersfield Loan to Grant Loan, It’s unique because it has one of the lowest annual percentage rate set the same for every business that is approved for that particular loan.

What are some of your outside-of-work hobbies and interests?

My favorite hobby is traveling and trying different foods, I’m planning my next trip next year to visit and explore Italy, Greece, and Amsterdam for two weeks. Another one of my favorite things to do in my free time is practicing cursive handwriting, and or watching videos on perfecting my handwriting.

Celebrating Small Business Week 2021

September 23, 2021

Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners.

Access Plus Capital recognizes the many sacrifices and accomplishments of small businesses in our area and their incredible owners and employees. They have had to be as resilient as ever — especially in the face of a global health crisis.

In the spirit of shopping local, we’ve put together a list of local small businesses we’ve had the pleasure of partnering with to help them start, recover, rebuild, and prosper.

Every day, these businesses are working to grow small businesses, create 21st-century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness. Join us in helping these businesses forward for a successful 2021 and beyond!

Meet the Team: Yeng

September 17, 2021

We’re excited to introduce you to See Yeng Her, Access Plus Capitals Senior Manager of Portfolio. Recently, we asked him a little about himself, his new role with Access Plus, and things he’s looking to accomplish in this role. Get to know Yeng and how the role he plays in the loan process!

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

Yeng is a long-time resident of Fresno. He has been in commercial lending since 2007 serving and working with the various lending partners and small business clients of the Central Valley. Yeng has had the opportunity to work with many entrepreneurs and small businesses from all walks of life and diverse background. Yeng was a small business owner himself. He has several years of experience owning and managing his small business in Fresno. He attended Fresno City College and obtained his A.S. in Accounting and attended California State University, Fresno, and obtained his B.S. in Business Administration, with a focus in Finance. Prior to joining APC, Yeng worked for another local CDFI and Non-bank commercial lender as the Vice President of Commercial Credit.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

Yeng is the Senior Manager of Portfolio and is responsible for managing day-to-day operations of loan servicing and performance of the loan portfolio of Access Plus Capital. He works closely with the loan servicing team to ensure strong client relationships and provide as-needed technical assistance in order to support the success of clients.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

Having the opportunity to work with a dedicated team to serve our underserved small business community.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

One of my favorite parts is working with small business owners is that I am given the opportunity to learn and experience firsthand, the many challenges faced by these owners, especially obtaining financing. Then together, we can understand and find solutions to tackle these challenges.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

One of my most recent and ongoing projects is being part of a co-design team working towards developing an organizational culture of equity and achieving equitable outcomes for our clients and communities. This is a unique project to me as it involves tackling some underlining issues and having ongoing conversations about how we can improve as individuals and as an organization. This helps develop our organizational culture of equity, which will have a direct impact on how we carry out our mission for serving our clients.

What are some of your outside-of-work hobbies and interests?

I enjoy traveling with my wife and kids when we can. I also enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and sightseeing. I also keep busy with small DIY projects on the weekends.

CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program – Round 9

August 27, 2021

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]California recently announced a $500 million Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant program for eligible small business owners and nonprofits who have been impacted by COVID-19 and the health and safety restrictions. Grants up to $25,000 will be given to eligible small businesses and nonprofits to help cover expenses during the pandemic.

The new website, www.CAReliefGrant.com, is now live! Visit to review your eligibility, prepare your business documents, and get ready to apply. Applications for Round 9 open September 9th and closes end of the day on September 30th.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Ffresnoeoc.zoom.us%2Fmeeting%2Fregister%2FtZcoc-iqrj0pGtRumfqMrhjyIBRBjJBW6nDa%3F_x_zm_rtaid%3D99-jblMOQO2GBeWuBPorlQ.1630081828346.7689e4f74579a0c9b0f2a21dc19e5c2f%26_x_zm_rhtaid%3D269|title:Register%20for%20our%20Upcoming%20Workshops” button_alignment=”btn_center”]Register for Round 8 Webinars[/dt_default_button][vc_empty_space][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Ffresnoeoc.zoom.us%2Fmeeting%2Fregister%2FtZYlc-iqrTIsE9YQmiz3Tx8JBY7coHPmhQaV%3F_x_zm_rtaid%3D0_zebz8_TJarG70BN9T4hw.1630080522354.1b2458d6a60cefdb3b222baf1622e821%26_x_zm_rhtaid%3D324|title:Register%20for%20our%20Upcoming%20Workshops” button_alignment=”btn_center”]Register for Round 9 Webinars[/dt_default_button][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Anxious to apply? We’re hosting webinars this and next week for small business owners and non-profits to prepare in advance of the program opening. Join us September 8th, and September 10th to learn more about the requirements/eligibility, deadlines, and required documents. The deadline to submit an application is September 30th, 2021 @ 3:00 PM, PST.[/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.mylendistry.com%2Flogin|title:Apply%20Here|target:_blank” button_alignment=”btn_center”]Apply Here[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Meet the Team: Victor

August 26, 2021

Victor Lucero has had a successful sales and management career in many industries, from the East Coast to the West Coast. He joined Access Plus Capital as a Business Specialist and brings his industry experience to help Central Valley entrepreneurs fund their dreams.

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

My background consists of years of sales and management experience, starting with the Xerox International Sales and Management Center in Leesburg, Virginia. Working in northern and southern California, in sales and management, in the cable tv business, and solar field. Two years ago, I entered the financial CDFI area with Opportunity Fund as a Loan Consultant, helping small businesses who had little access to capital to help their businesses.

What is your role at Access Plus Capital?

I am a Business Specialist helping small, underserved businesses who need help with startup capital. I assist and advise them to become loan-ready and help existing businesses with technical assistance, such as social media, online sales, bookkeeping, and marketing planning. I am the face of Access Plus Capital to our future and present clients, interfacing with our staff and partners.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

My favorite part is helping clients grow their business, realize their dreams, and assist business owners with the problems that keep them up at night, finding viable solutions.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

My favorite part of working with business owners, helping clients who felt they had no options many often falling prey to online predatory lenders, or facing losing their livelihood. I especially enjoy the gratitude and friendship of many of the businesses I have helped over the years.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

The latest project has been helping a startup food trailer client who is excited to start his first formal business after years of working in restaurants. He is Spanish-speaking and is very appreciative of the work we’ve done at Access Plus Capital. I’m very excited to see his new coffee shop trailer called Monkey Dog Coffee! You cannot forget this name and his coffee shop startup!

What are some of your outside-of-work hobbies and interests?

As a single parent raising a daughter who is in her second year of college, I have grown as a person, learning to sew, do laundry, cook, and keep house! I also enjoy golfing and spent two years living on my sailboat in Long Beach. I love the ocean and visiting my dad in Morro Bay!

Access Plus Capital is excited to welcome Victor as our Business Specialist, furthering our goal of helping business owners like you get the funding you need to grow your business. And we’ll be sure to grab a drink at Monkey Dog Coffee when it opens!

Juneteenth Celebration

June 29, 2021

Access Plus Capital is proud to support the Black community and be allies to the many Black business owners in the Central Valley during Juneteenth Celebration.

Juneteenth honors the end of slavery in the United States and is a celebration of the history, culture, and pride for Black communities. At Access Plus Capital, we honor and celebrate the tremendous contributions Black-owned businesses have made.

To show our support as a community member, we attended Fresno’s 2021 Juneteenth Celebration at Frank H. Ball Park. It was a fantastic event to celebrate with barbecuing, music, and educational history lessons. We also saw other community partners, like African American Coalition, who created a vaccination pop-event to ensure as many people as possible get vaccinated to help save lives and end this pandemic.

As we are committed to providing capital and technical assistance to diverse-owned businesses and entrepreneurs, we were able to spread awareness of our partnership with Wells Fargo and our $1.5 million Open for Business grant. With the Wells Fargo partnership, we can subsidize our interest rates on our nano loans from 10% to 3%, which is incredible news!

We had a wonderful time celebrating with members of the community during the Juneteenth event. We know that the social changes have the power to yield a lasting positive impact on the lives in the Central Valley. So please celebrate with us, the Black-owned businesses leading the way in the Central Valley.

James Hannah: Fulfillment of A Dream

June 24, 2021

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Back in February, we featured a story on James Hannah, 60, who, after years of struggling to obtain a loan for his business, was approved for $50,000 with the help of Access Plus Capital. At the time of our story, James had found the ideal location to open, but due to the city of Fresno rezoning parts of southwest Fresno, his business plans were put on hold once again.

We’re excited to announce that’s no longer the case, as “Hannah’s Smog Center” had its grand opening this month. Surrounded by friends, family, and Access Plus Capital staff, James Hannah officially cut the ribbon and is now open for business in Fresno. Congratulations to James Hannah for going from a dream deferred to a dream realized, to now a dream fulfilled!

[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid grid_id=”vc_gid:1624574891309-7d62039a-198f-5″ include=”10831,10832,10830,10829,10833,10828″][vc_column_text]And we are fulfilling our dreams of providing capital and technical assistance to diverse-owned businesses and entrepreneurs with our Wells Fargo partnership! On the heels of California opening back up and through our partnership with Wells Fargo, we announced a $1.5 million Open for Business grant. With the Wells Fargo partnership, we are able to subsidize our interest rate from 10% to 3% on our nano loans and it couldn’t come at a better time for businesses still struggling.

If you are struggling or know someone who is struggling to obtain business capital, now is the perfect time to take advantage of the low-interest rate on our Nano Loan Program. From $5,000 – $20,000, we can provide nano loan funding within just five business days. At Access Plus Capital, we can help you find the right small business loans or resources to meet your business financing needs. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Celebrating Asian/Pacific Islander American Heritage Month

May 28, 2021

May is Asian/Pacific Islander American Heritage Month. At Access Plus Capital, we want to honor the different Asian cultures in the Central Valley and celebrate their strong entrepreneurial spirit. As one of our first clients was refugee Southeast Asian farmers, we understand the need and are committed to assisting entrepreneurs of color with access to capital, resources, and training.

In the past year, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have been rife with hardships and violence. We must help change the narrative and recognize the achievements and historical significance of the Asian/Pacific Islander American community and what they have built in the Central Valley. Our mission at Access Plus Capital is to build a better Central Valley. That starts with assisting and providing capital to Asian Americans and Pacific Islander entrepreneurs who will make significant contributions in the future.

PRESS RELEASE: Access Plus Capital receives funding for the Bridging the Financial Justice Gap Initiative to help minority-owned businesses

April 12, 2021

Access Plus Capital receives funding for the Bridging the Financial Justice Gap Initiative to help minority-owned businesses

Fresno, CA- Access to capital creates opportunities for small businesses to thrive. Recently, Pacific Western Bank invested $300,000 into Access Plus Capital’s Bridging the Financial Justice Gap Initiative to expand its lending into the regional African-American small business community.

“We are excited about the opportunity to partner with Pacific Western Bank,” said Tate Hill, Access Plus Capital Executive Director. “Partnership likes like these are critical. The bank recognizes the need small businesses have and are willing to make an investment to support their success.”

Access Plus Capital’s initiative was developed in response to the growing need to provide capital and business coaching services for the Valley’s most underinvested communities, including Black, Southeast Asian, and rural Latino businesses. Thanks to the Pacific Western Bank’s Social Justice Initiative, created to provide financial support to underserved communities, these funds will support the creation of a $2,500,000 fund targeting African-American businesses.

As a partner working on the Bridging Financial Justice Gap Initiative, Fresno Metro Black Chamber (FMBCC) supports Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in the greater Fresno region through technical assistance, capacity building, and advocacy services. FMBCC received a companion grant for technical assistance in the amount of $35,000, from Pacific Western Bank, as part of the bank’s commitment to underserved communities.

“Over the last year, we have seen how important access to capital and resources has been for all small businesses, and the ability to respond to the specific needs of our community is enhanced by committed partners like Pacific Western Bank who provided seed funding for the Fresno DRIVE Betting Big flexible capital fund being established by Access Plus Capital and Fresno Metro Black Chamber,” said Tara Lynn Gray, President and CEO of Fresno Metro Black Chamber. “This is another step in the right direction on the road to economic recovery for our region’s Black businesses.”

The Initiative has funding from JP Morgan, Chase, Citibank, The James Irvine Foundation, Self-Help Enterprises, the National Association Latino Community Asset Builders, and now Pacific Western Bank. The hope is more banks and investors will contribute to the initiative, helping to close the capital gap for entrepreneurs of color.

If you are interested in providing financial assistance to local small businesses, please call (559) 263-1368. Are you a small business in need of capital? Please visit www.accesspluscapital.com. 1920 Mariposa Mall, Suite 111 Fresno, CA 93721 www.accesspluscapital.com Contact: Kristine Morgan Cell: (559) 790-0940 kristine.morgan@fresnoeoc.org

About Access Plus Capital

Access Plus Capital (formerly Fresno CDFI) offers financing, training, and asset development services for low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs. Since its inception in 2009, the multilingual staff – experienced in micro-finance, credit counseling, business plan development, and advocacy for lowincome families – has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs realize their dreams. Access Plus Capital serves a 14-county region in Central California and is a subsidiary of Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC). More information can be found here: www.AccessPlusCapital.com.

About Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce (FMBCC) and Chamber Foundation (FMBCF)

The Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce and Chamber Foundation is a locally-based membership organization with a global reach advancing the interests of the greater African-American community through the creation of opportunities, advocacy, and business & economic development. The Foundation provides educational programming for entrepreneurs of all ages that leads to financial responsibility, sustainability, and job growth.

About Pacific Western Bank

PacWest Bancorp (“PacWest”) is a bank holding company with over $29 billion in assets headquartered in Los Angeles, California, with an executive office in Denver, Colorado, with one wholly-owned banking subsidiary, Pacific Western Bank (the “Bank”). The Bank has 70 full-service branches located in California, one branch located in Durham, North Carolina, and one branch located in Denver, Colorado. The Bank provides community banking products including lending and comprehensive deposit and treasury management services to small and medium-sized businesses conducted primarily through our California-based branch offices and Denver, Colorado branch office.

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Meet the Team: Ricardo

April 12, 2021

Recently, we sat down with Access Plus Capital’s newest addition Ricardo Hernandez Jr. and asked him a little about himself, his new role with Access Plus, and why he’s excited about helping small business owners achieve their goals.

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

Before coming to Access Plus Capital I was working as an insurance agent with AAA. Prior to AAA, I was a Member Consultant (Banker) at Noble Federal Credit Union for four years.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

I am a Loan Processing Analyst. I will be assisting in processing approved business loans and other duties as assigned.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

I have been at my position for a few weeks so it is difficult to say what is my favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital. However, I feel that I will enjoy being able to help business owners keep their businesses running.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

I like the fact that I will be able to help business owners get the capital they need to run their business.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

The latest project I am working on is the City of Bakersfield ReSTART Loan to Grant Program.

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

One of my favorite hobbies is Fantasy Football. I am involved with 4 different leagues. Always room for more fantasy leagues!

And there you have it. We are very excited to have Ricardo on the Access Plus Capital team and look forward to his future in helping business owners get the capital they need to operate their businesses.

Meet the Team: Pamela

March 30, 2021

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We are pleased to announce the recent hiring of Pamela Mostert to the position of Business Services Manager. A lifelong resident of Fresno, Pamela earned her Master’s in Business Administration and Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Marketing from the University of Phoenix. She will be spearheading the development, implementation and management of all technical assistance and development programs to existing and new borrowers of Access Plus Capital. In her previous role with Citibank, she worked directly with small businesses to develop growth strategies and financial plans, where she also assisted with the development implementation and marketing of a national sales program designed to increase branch sales. We look forward to Pamela joining the Access Plus Capital team and can’t wait to have her leverage her education and experience to better serve you.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Access Plus Capital Stands Against Anti-Asian Hate

March 19, 2021

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Dear Access Plus Capital Partners & Clients:

The murder of eight people, including six Asian women, in Atlanta has deeply sadden communities across the country and us here in central California. These killings come at a time when attacks and harassment against Asian and Asian-American people are escalating. Nationwide, hate crimes against Asian-Americans have increased 1900% and since 2020 there have been over 1600 reported crimes in California alone.

The recent increase in anti-Asian sentiment can be traced to those who wrongly racialize the COVID-19 pandemic and target people of Asian descent as scapegoats. The shooting of Asian women at local small businesses resurfaces a history of discrimination and gender inequity against communities of color. During this period of increased social and racial justice awareness, we must acknowledge this overlooked history and bring a light to what many do not see.

Access Plus Capital’s first clients were refugee Southeast Asian farmers and aspiring entrepreneurs in Fresno County. Today, as a community development financial institution that works to provide access to capital and training to entrepreneurs of color and businesses in underserved communities, we find it necessary to add our voice to the growing call to stop the spread of targeted hate and violence.

Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, small business owners and workers. We grieve with those who have been affected by these crimes and ask that you unite with us in accord to denounce and confront hate in all forms, including acts and speech motivated by race, gender, belief, and backgrounds for all mankind.

Access Plus Capital stands in solidarity with our Asian and Pacific Islander peers, clients, and community.

Here are a few resources if you are looking for ways to understand and/or support Asian-American community policy work:

Stop AAPI Hate https://stopaapihate.org/
Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Atlanta https://www.advancingjustice-atlanta.org/
Hmong Innovating Politics https://www.hipcalifornia.com/[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

City of Bakersfield ReStart Loan-to-Grant Program is now open!

March 15, 2021

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””]We’re excited to announce the City of Bakersfield unveiled its new ReStart Loan-to-Grant Program. Designed to help local small businesses hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic, the nearly $2 million program offers forgivable loans of up to $50,000 based on their payroll size.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]The program will accept applications until November 30 or until all funds are awarded. Qualified recipients must be located within city limits, have 25 or fewer full-time employees, and report annual revenues of no more than $2 million, among other requirements.

According to guidelines, the loans will be forgiven if recipients are still operating 12 months after they receive the money. Not-for-profit businesses are not eligible, and neither are churches, lending establishments, or businesses related to gambling or adult entertainment.

Application information for the ReStart Loan-to-Grant program is also available by calling Access Plus Capital at (661) 448-2133 or Bakersfield’s Women’s Business Center: (661) 567-0410.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

From A Dream Deferred to A Dream Realized

February 22, 2021

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]James Hannah, 60, had tried to secure a business loan for an auto repair shop since he graduated from Fresno City College’s auto mechanic program in 1986.

Before entering the program, Hannah was unable to get a job and had sought help from the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission, which paid for his training at Fresno City College. He was assured that the certificate in the automotive program would be as good as money in the bank, and he would qualify for small business loans to set up his own shop.

The Fresno EOC counselors helped Hannah write a business plan and loan applications for between $50,000 and $100,000 to cover six months of rent, needed equipment and wages for an assistant until the business stabilized. Everyone told him his business plan and loan applications were perfect. But what he got was one rejection after another.

“I was told every time, ‘Your credit isn’t up to par,’” Hannah said. “I never had credit before that. I thought, ‘They’ll give you an opportunity to build your credit up.’”

In the 34 years between the beginning of his application process, Hannah said he prayed and waited patiently. After his story was published in the Fresno Bee, on Aug. 17, Hannah was contacted by Tate Hill, executive director of Access Plus Capital.

It took several months, but in the end, Hannah was approved for $50,000. “It’s not everything that I want,” he said. “But I believe it’s a start.”

It is more than a start. It is a dream deferred, to a dream realized and evidence that a media spotlight can result in a very positive outcome. Hannah’s dreams, deferred 35 years, are now within reach.

“Two young ladies [from Access Plus Capital] worked with me,” Hannah said. “Now, a third young lady is working with me to help me get started. So it was a team effort. They were really easy to talk to, easy to work with. They were very professional guiding me through process every step of the way.”

“I feel very grateful. I’m thankful to God, for sending them my way, thank you to Tate Hill, for assigning me to the right person. And a very special thank you to Janay Conley who was with me through the whole process,” he said.

Before everything can be finalized, he needs space — a place for his brand new “Hannah’s Smog Center.” While he shopped for the ideal location, he discovered that the city of Fresno has rezoned some parts of southwest Fresno in a way that precludes many types of businesses. “It’s just sad the way they’ve done it,” Hannah said. “People had to come out North in order to open up a business.”

While he was waiting for the funding, he had started looking for a place to locate his business and thought he had found one. He and the owner agreed on price and conditions that he incorporated into his planning. Once the funding was confirmed, Hannah said the landlord changed his tune. “He changed up on me, and the funding was already set for the amount he had told me, so I couldn’t take it.”

Hannah is determined to get things going and to succeed in this business endeavor.

“I’m just excited. I am excited about it,” he said. “it was all God’s doing. He was waiting for the right time for me.”

Hannah also sees his loan approval and business goals as a win for his entire community.

“I’m not just thinking about me,” he said. “I’m thinking about probably hiring people in my community and, and also allowing people to know that we never give up on that dream.”

“I would strongly recommend the Access Plus Capital team for anyone trying to secure a business loan.” [/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”Start funding your dream now with Access Plus Capital” color=”green” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.com%2Floans%2F”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Honoring Black History – Funding The Dream

February 15, 2021

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Tate Hill, Executive Director of Access Plus Capital, had the pleasure of being interviewed for CBS 47 as they honored private companies in the Central Valley, who are stepping forward to support minority owned businesses.

For decades, communities of color have shared stories about the struggle of becoming entrepreneurs. Many cite having plenty of good ideas, education, and drive. The main hurdle has been a lack of capital to get started.

“We’re here to help businesses get the access to the funding, the capital they need to start or grow their business,” says Tate Hill, Executive Director of Access Plus Capital. “Someone starts with a small loan. It gets them the capital they need, and they grow that business to a stable enterprise in our community,” Hill says.

Loans that, over time, have helped many black entrepreneurs who had great ideas but a lack of funding.

“Historically, African Americans have not had their fair share of investment and funding that would grow their businesses.”

For years, Hill says that banks used a process called “redlining” to prevent funds from flowing into communities of color. It’s a problem that Access Plus Capital has tackled head-on.

“Those communities that have been most underserved have access to resources to grow their business,” Hill explained.

In addition to a financial investment, Hill says Access Plus Capital trains entrepreneurs on financial recordkeeping and how to build business credit through a program they call “technical assistance.” And various funding streams allow them some flexibility on who they can make loans to.

“Our motive is not profit, but to have an impact through our community with entrepreneurs,” Hill says.

Self Help Credit Union shares this theme.

“You may have had the door shut at another banking institution, but we are super flexible,” said Rosa Pereira, who works at Self Help’s Fresno branch. She says the group is happy to have been responsible for funding local non-profits like churches and grocery stores.

“It’s the best feeling in the world,” Pereira says. “I would do this for free if I didn’t have to make my own mortgage payment. It’s so, so rewarding.”

Birthed during the civil rights era in North Carolina, Pereira says that over 70% of Self Help Credit Union’s members are African Americans. “We see people where we have started their credit.”

Improving credit is vital to Black businesses’ success, and Tate Hill sees it as good business for everyone.

“When we support our entrepreneurs, we help to raise the financial profile not only for that individual but also their family and those workers employed at that location,” Hill said.

Access Plus Capital is proud to be honored during Black History Month and to be named one of the private companies making a step forward in the Central Valley and funding the dreams of minority-owned businesses. [/vc_column_text][vc_btn title=”Start funding your dream now with Access Plus Capital” color=”green” size=”lg” align=”center” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.com%2Floans%2F”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Announcing CA Relief Grant Webinars Hosted in Hmong and Punjabi

January 22, 2021

Round two of the California $500 Million Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant program is opening back up on Monday, February 2nd, which means there is another chance to apply if you did not take advantage of round one. As applications for round two will only remain open until Monday, Feb. 8th, we want to make sure you have the technical assistance and resources to apply.

Recently we hosted webinars to provide information and answer questions for small businesses and non-profits to prepare in advance of round two. Two of these webinars we hosted were presented in Hmong and Punjabi. As we are dedicated to helping the underserved businesses in Fresno, we are proud to share these resources with the Hmong or Sikh/Punjabi communities.

Topic: CA Relief Grant – Small Business Prep Webinar- Hmong

Presented in Hmong by Va Her, VP of the California Hmong Chamber of Commerce

Topic: CA Relief Grant – Small Business Prep Webinar- Punjabi

Presented in Punjabi in by Baldev Birk, Director of Risk Management for Access Plus Capital in partnership with the Jakara Movement.

For direct COVID-19 application support assistance, call 559-263-1367

Meet Business Development Manager Janay E. Conley

January 20, 2021

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]We recently sat down with Janay E. Conley, Business Development Manager at Access Plus Capital. When she’s not hosting karaoke parties for her friends, Janay is helping small businesses get the capital they need to start their own small business. Learn more about Janay below:

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

Prior to being a part of the Access Plus Capital team, I worked in traditional banking for local community banks for about 14 years. I also was a business instructor for Heald College for four of those years. I first started my banking career working as a commercial loan assistant and was promoted to a business banking associate. As my career progressed, I found myself working several years in the Small Business Administration department for another local community bank. In addition, for two other local community banks one as a loan officer and the other as a credit analysis and loan closer for their small business administration (SBA) department. It was through my years working in the SBA department that I development a deep passion for the small business owners that help sustain our local and beautiful economy.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

I am one of the Business Development Managers. Serving the Fresno and Northern Region of the Central Valley. I work in collaboration with our community partners, to assist and connect business owners in underserved communities with capital and technical assistance to help them launch, grown and sustain their business.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

My favorite part of working with Access Plus Capital is serving our business owners and being a part of aiding them in their business dreams and goals. I also love serving my community in this capacity because I get to be apart of helping and assisting those businesses, that would not otherwise have an opportunity for funding. Providing hope and support to our business owners is what drives me every day.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

My job is extremely rewarding. Every day I wake excited about the opportunity to serve my community. As a former teacher and with a 25 year background in business, I love to teach business owners financial literacy, provide funding and witnessing their success as a small business owner. Their success is like receiving a golden ticket for me; it truly fills my cup.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

This one makes me want to cry… Recently, I was able to secure financing for an African-American business owner that had been trying to receive financing through traditional bank loans for over 25 years. That business owner had given up hope. When I told the business owner that their loan was approved, they started to cry over the phone, which of course made me cry. The business owner was so grateful. That’s the work that I get to do everyday and I thank God for such a wonderful opportunity.

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

Haha… to my close friends they know me as an inspired Karaoke DJ; hosting karaoke parties for close friends. My heart is a song. I absolutely love music, singing and trivia.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

CA Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program – Round 6

December 29, 2020

The new website, www.CAReliefGrant.com, is now live! Visit to review your eligibility, prepare your business documents, and get ready to apply. Applications for Round 6 will opens on April 28th, 2021, and closes end of the day on May 4th.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Ffresnoeoc.zoom.us%2Fmeeting%2Fregister%2FtZwodu-hrzIiG9QR53LEFj4TMNy-Tjh7BEkr|title:Register%20for%20our%20Upcoming%20Workshops” button_alignment=”btn_center”]Register for our Upcoming Webinars[/dt_default_button][vc_column_text][/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]Anxious to apply? We’re hosting webinars this and next week for small business owners and non-profits to prepare in advance of the program opening. Join us April 28th, April 30th and May 2nd to learn more about the requirements/eligibility, deadlines, and required documents. The deadline to submit an application is May 4, 2021 @ 6:00PM, PST.

For direct COVID-19 application support assistance, call 559-263-1367[/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.mylendistry.com%2Flogin|title:Apply%20Here|target:_blank” button_alignment=”btn_center”]Apply Here[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

California Rebuilding Fund

November 19, 2020

Gov. Gavin Newsom just announced a new loan program built to support California’s small businesses as they adapt and navigate the effects of COVID-19. The California Rebuilding Fund is a partnership between public and private sector entities to provide California small businesses—particularly businesses in underbanked parts of the state—with access to responsible, affordable capital to help them survive and rebuild from this crisis.

The Fund, which includes an anchor commitment from the State of California’s Infrastructure and Economic Development Bank (“IBank”), will offer loans that are flexible, transparent, and designed to help sustain small businesses through these challenging economic times. The funds are being deployed by participating community lenders, and businesses with up to 50 full-time employees and gross revenues of less than $2.5 million or below in 2019 may be eligible to apply.

Learn more and apply for a loan today »

PRESS RELEASE – Access Plus Capital uses federal and state funding to help businesses recover due to COVID-19

November 18, 2020

FRESNO, CA: Access Plus Capital is now able to provide full wrap-around services, help more small businesses, and expand jobs in underserved communities throughout the Central Valley. The $503,000 in new funding will support Access Plus Capital’s newly created Business Services Department, which provides no-cost support before and after the loan process, one-on-one business coaching, and help to businesses as they restart and recover due to COVID-19.

Since April 2020, Access Plus Capital has assisted 1,118 businesses with $5,750,00 COVID-19 small business relief in addition to supporting more than 3000 businesses with federal and local relief applications, loan deferrals, and pandemic response business coaching. The recent funding from federal and state grants turns Access Plus Capital into more than a lender; now, they are a one-stop-shop.

“With this new funding, it will increase our capacity to support businesses recovery and even some to grow,” says Tate Hill, Access Plus Capital’s Executive Director. “Now, we can provide even more services that includes business planning, developing financial statements, and one-on-one loan application assistance.”

The mission-based lender has learned that many entrepreneurs need more than just capital to grow the business. Hill continues, “we want our borrowers to have a successful business. Access Plus Capital is one of their biggest cheerleaders, and we are here to help them every step of the way.”

Staff help small businesses become loan ready when they apply; guiding borrowers navigate through lending options, credit enhancement programs, and helping them assemble all the necessary items for the application process.

“We realize how hard businesses are hit during this pandemic, and we are here to help,” says Ana Medina, Director of Business Development and Services. “Even if you aren’t yet approved for a loan, or you are just getting your application ready, we have a team of caring, dedicated, and trained staff, ready to offer one-on-one assistance and support the needs of our Central Valley businesses.”

Medina has been working with central California small businesses for more than ten years, and for her, Access Plus Capital is more than just a lending option. After loan approval, the staff continues working with the business to review financial statements, regular check-ins, and host business workshops on various growth topics. Loan officers, coupled with business coaching services, allow business owners to get the full wrap-around services they need to succeed.

About Access Plus Capital

Access Plus Capital (formerly Fresno CDFI) offers financing, training, and asset development services for low- and moderate-income entrepreneurs. Since its inception in 2009, the multilingual staff – experienced in micro-finance, credit counseling, business plan development, and advocacy for low-income families – has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs realize their dreams. Access Plus Capital serves a 14-county region in Central California and is a subsidiary of Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC). More information can be found here: www.AccessPlusCapital.com.

Meet Junior Underwriter Gabriel Holguin

November 18, 2020

We recently sat down with Gabriel Holguin, Junior Underwriter at Access Plus Capital. When he’s not coaching on the soccer fields, Gabriel applies his skill at helping loan applicants get the capital they need to start their own small business. Learn more about Gabriel below:

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

I grew up on the east coast and studied Business and Economics at a small, private college in central Pennsylvania. After graduating from college I started applying for entry level positions at various non-profit financial organizations, mostly in Baltimore and Washington D.C. Eventually I ended up applying for a one-year economic development program in Fresno with AmeriCorps. I ended up being placed at Access Plus Capital as a financial education intern. While interning with APC I helped develop a financial education curriculum, and set up a program where EOC staff members could receive training on how to educate their clients on basic personal financial best practices. In addition to developing and implementing the financial education program, I spent a fair amount of time learning the ins and outs of APC and their role as a CDFI in the Central Valley. After the program ended, APC offered me a full time position as a Junior Underwriter, and I’ve been working here ever since.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

I am currently working as a Junior Loan underwriter, doing risk management for APC’s Micro and Nano Loans ($5,000 to $50,000). My work consists of underwriting Micro and Nano Loans, determining loan risk, and preparing credit memorandums.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

Definitely the business analysis aspect of the underwriting process. When underwriting a loan, I have to familiarize myself with both the industry and the business itself, dissecting all the ins and outs of the organization, piecing together the story behind their financial and credit performances over the most recent years, and putting together a thorough picture of the business as a whole. It’s a little bit like detective work, but I can do it all from my desk, so it’s quite the rush.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

As an underwriter I rarely get to work with business owners in person, but I love hearing all of the success stories of business owners who’s loans I had underwritten in the past from my coworkers. It’s also pretty exciting to see the business I’ve underwritten loans for outside of work, whether I’m going in to grab some food from a former client, or just passing their storefront on the way home.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

I actually just finished working on a Nano Loan for a video production company that was looking for funds to secure a certificate that would allow them to expand their services and subsequently grow their clientele. This was a fairly unique deal as it was one of the first Nano Loans I’ve underwritten. Our Nano Loan product was developed to be a fast turnaround loan with a streamlined application and approval process, which added a novel high-speed element to the underwriting process.

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

Essentially anything that has to do with the outdoors and and/or exercise. Some of my top favorite hobbies include playing soccer with friends, hikes up in the mountains (with friends), and long bike rides – also with friends. I also recently started coaching a youth soccer team for one of the local soccer clubs in Fresno, which has turned out to be an incredibly enjoyable and entertaining experience.

Introducing the Nanoloan Program

November 18, 2020

Today, more than ever, businesses need a quick loan application process. That’s where our nanoloan product comes in. The nanoloan program provides fast turnaround loans for targeted business needs. With a streamlined application and approval process, we can provide nanoloan funding within just seven business days.

This loan is specifically designed for businesses who might not meet the credit requirements of other loan products. This streamlined, credit building loan product aims to help those business owners who have been denied access to capital. The application requires limited documentation and has a seven-day approval process.

The PRO-Neighborhoods Initiative allows us to fund nanoloans for businesses in several targeted zip codes. Through this initiative, we assist small business owners gain access to capital to launch, grow or expand their business. If you are a business in one of the following zip codes: 93701, 93702, 93721, 93706 or 93725 this program’s funding is available to you.

If you’re in need of business funding and haven’t been able to receive loans from traditional banks, this loan might be for you. Access Plus Capital has already begun distributing funding to local businesses. One business owner, Brianna Knight, received funding through the PRO-Neighborhoods Initiative.

After approaching a few lenders for funding, a friend informed Brianna of the opportunity to apply with Access Plus Capital. Because of her business’s transition to online sales during the pandemic, Brianna needed additional support to purchase inventory.

In addition, the support from Access Plus Capital allowed Brianna to remain in business. She said of the process, “it was enjoyable and informative.” In the future, Brianna hopes to add a 24-Hour chat service to her website so that customers can speak with a skincare professional, and find the product best tailored to their needs. You can purchase a variety of Brianna’s skin care products online at Bokclinical.com.

Meet Senior Manager of Credit Jason Gridiron

October 20, 2020

Meet Senior Manager of Credit Jason Gridiron. A banking industry veteran, Jason brings years of experience to his role at Access Plus Capital.

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

I have been in the banking industry for sixteen years with eight of those years in small business credit analysis and management in the banking and CDFI industries. I am in my second stint with the agency where I served as Credit Manager from 2012 to 2016. Came back to the agency in 2018 as Credit Manager but with less of a management role. During my time away, I worked as a Credit Officer and Risk Portfolio Analyst at a traditional bank. Now I serve as the Senior Manager—Credit for Access Plus Capital.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

I currently oversee and manage the entire credit department, which includes the loan processing team.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

I enjoy the work and the opportunities we create for business owners and the community. I also enjoy my co-workers and they make it fun to clock in every day.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

It is very rewarding to be part of success stories and seeing dreams come to fruition.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

A recent project that I worked on was a Laundromat. It was very unique because it aligned perfectly with our mission. The business is minority owned and serves a low-to-moderate income community.

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

I enjoy playing music, love sports, traveling, and spending time with my family.

Recent Promotions at Access Plus Capital

October 20, 2020

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_custom_heading text=”ACCESS PLUS CAPITAL IS GROWING AND CHANGING!” font_container=”tag:h1|font_size:28|text_align:left|line_height:1.1″ use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Access Plus Capital has elevated a number of its’ team to new leadership positions to further support its work as a mission-based lender. Learn more about the changes below:[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”10051″ img_size=”medium”][dt_fancy_title title=”Ana Medina” title_align=”left” title_color=”accent”][vc_custom_heading text=”Director- Business Development and Services” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:16|text_align:left|color:%237b7b7b” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]

Ms. Medina is responsible for the management of all strategic and operational customer relationship activities. She oversees marketing, business development activities, and business services (technical assistance) services for the organization. Ms. Medina previously held the position of Director of Business Development for Access Plus Capital. She drives increased revenue to achieve organizational growth goals. Ms. Medina coordinates the implementation of business plans and the penetration of new markets. Her team generates loan applications and provides loan packaging technical assistance. She also identifies and pursues new markets for loans. She has an extensive network in the rural and Latinx communities throughout central California. Ms. Medina has a bachelor’s degree from Fresno State in Mass Communications & Journalism.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”10053″ img_size=”medium”][dt_fancy_title title=”Baldev Birk” title_align=”left” title_color=”accent”][vc_custom_heading text=”Director- Risk Management” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:16|text_align:left|color:%237b7b7b” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Mr. Birk is responsible for day-to-day operations and overall management of credit portfolio activities with the goal of optimizing loan deployment, operating income, and maintaining a healthy portfolio in alignment with the organization’s mission and priorities. Mr. Birk has previous positions in business development, business services (technical assistance) and was most recently Senior Portfolio Manager. He serves on the board of directors for 59 Days of Code, a non-profit fostering tech education. He also serves on the Finance committee of California Association for Micro Enterprise Opportunity (CAMEO) a statewide Micro Enterprise Network. Mr. Birk has a bachelor’s of business administration – finance from Fresno State and in 2019 he became a certified Economic Development Financial Professional. [/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”50px”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”10052″ img_size=”medium”][dt_fancy_title title=”Jason Gridiron” title_align=”left” title_color=”accent”][vc_custom_heading text=”Senior Manager – Credit” font_container=”tag:h2|font_size:16|text_align:left|color:%237b7b7b” use_theme_fonts=”yes”][vc_column_text]Mr. Jason Gridiron has been promoted from Credit Manager to our Senior Manager of Credit for Access Plus Capital. He has been in the banking industry for sixteen years with eight of those years in small business credit analysis and management in the banking and CDFI industries. He oversees the underwriting and processing of C&I, CRE, Equipment Financing, SBA 7a, and SBA Micro loans to ensure all covenants were met. He manages loan risk by preparing and analyzing the creditworthiness of all commercial loan originations by spreading company and personal financial statements. He supervises all credit and processing staff and provides direct support to the loan committee. Mr. Gridiron maintains an MBA with a Concentration in Finance from Walden University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration – Marketing from Fresno State. Mr. Gridiron is also a certified Economic Development Financial Professional. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

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Access Plus Capital PRO Neighborhoods Initiative

September 22, 2020

Economic opportunity is closely tied to neighborhood conditions. Low income families in areas with better resources, education, health, and employment opportunities, have a greater economic opportunity.

To address this problem, JP Morgan Chase developed the PRO Neighborhoods Initiative, or Partnerships for Raising Opportunity in Neighborhoods. In 2018, Access Plus Capital partnered with Central Valley Community Foundation through the PRO Neighborhoods Initiative to launch the Fresno Community Capital Collaborative for Economic Mobility to lend $2.55 million in south Fresno by 2021.

Through this initiative, we assist small business owners gain access to capital to launch, grow or expand their business. If you are a business located in one of the following zip codes, 93701, 93702, 93721, 93706 or 93725 and need assistance with loan preparation and funding, please contact us.

Meet Technical Assistance Specialist Kattia

September 15, 2020

Recently, we sat down with Kattia and asked her to share a little about herself, her role at Access Plus Capital, and why she loves helping small business owners achieve their goals.

While Kattia’s job title is Technical Assistance Specialist, she also provides a lot of the coaching, guidance, and financial analysis that we provide our local small businesses. Let’s get to know one of the people most responsible for our clients’ pre and post-loan success.

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

Before joining the Access Plus Capital Team, I have spent most of my professional life in Customer Service for the Banking, Insurances, and Services Sectors. Because of my passion for helping people I have been able to both learn and advance in those fields.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

As a Technical Assistance Specialist, I provide pre-training, post-training, and Technical Assistance to Clients, conducting frequent visits to clients’ locations to review their business performance and needs, help implement business strategies to help them reach their potential success.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

First of all, I like the team environment. I also enjoy knowing are making a difference in our community, we’re a great resource to small and diverse businesses.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

What I enjoy the most about working with business owners, is seeing their entrepreneurial dream become a success and helping them get there. I enjoy being a contributor to our community in this way.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

The last project I worked on is the Fresno Hub Grant Lottery, I had a great experience being a part of that amazing project from beginning to end. We were able to award a substantial amount of businesses to ease the current burden of the COVID-19 with this program.

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

My favorite hobby is traveling, exercise, swimming, football, soccer and of course nothing better than a good BBQ with friends and the ones you love!

Want to become one of the many business owners that Joi has coached toward success? Click here to learn more about Access Plus Capital’s small business loan programs.

San Benito Loan Fund Extension

August 24, 2020

Last month, we were overjoyed to share with you the success of our San Benito Loan Fund, now we’re even more pleased to announce that the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross, has announced the Economic Development Administration is awarding $15 million in CARES Act Recovery Assistance grants to capitalize and administer Revolving Loan Funds.

The investment couldn’t have come at a better time. Our nation’s economy is still rebounding from the coronavirus pandemic, and our hope is to use this funding to create a stronger and more resilient economy. We are currently working on three applications from the area, and have received more than double that in applications.

We want to thank our local partners: The San Benito Economic Development Corporation, The San Benito County Chamber of Commerce, The Downtown Hollister Association, The City of San Juan Bautista, and San Benito County for their support in this initiative, we can’t wait to see the outcome. Keep an eye out for more success stories from San Benito!

PRESS RELEASE – Access Plus Capital Helping Businesses Through the Pandemic

August 21, 2020

Access Plus Capital, partners, and local municipalities have offer coaching and COVID-19 small business relief funding to over 1,100 businesses in Fresno County. Two of those businesses, Scent & Fire Candle Company and The Bone Store were able to use innovative strategies to skyrocket their business.

Meet Business Data Specialist Amelia Bui

August 20, 2020

Once a restaurant manager, Amelia Bui now puts her skills to use at Access Plus Capital as a Business Data Specialist, helping local businesses.

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

My name is Amelia Bui, I attended Fresno State for Computer Information Systems. Prior to coming on board with Access Plus Capital, I was a restaurant manager for a large restaurant here in Fresno, CA.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

At Access Plus Capital, I’m a Business Data Specialist. As a Business Data Specialist it’s my job to ensure data quality and help create tools to meet business needs.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

Working at Access Plus Capital is a great experience. Aside from enjoying the company of my coworkers, I like being part of helping local small businesses and being able to give back to my community through our work.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

Seeing small business owners make their dreams come true and being part of that. Giving back to the community through our work is rewarding.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

A lot of our current projects revolve around the pandemic. The latest project I worked on was the Fresno County HUB Grant. It was unique because of our current circumstances and the pandemic. Helping the community get through these unprecedented times is so important right now and being able to be part of that help was an experience in itself.

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

I love to travel every chance I get. I believe we truly don’t experience life to its fullest until we travel and broaden our horizons. When I’m not traveling, I spend a lot of time making new memories with my family and friends.

Welcome to Access Plus Capital, Amelia! We can’t wait to see you do great things.

Access Plus Capital selects Tate Hill as the new Executive Director

July 22, 2020

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(Fresno, CA) — Access Plus Capital, a subsidiary of Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC), announces Tate Hill as the new Executive Director. Hill brings 16 years of community development and business technical assistance experiences as well as 12 years in nonprofit management. For the last four years at Access Plus Capital, Hill has served as Senior Manager of Administration, Interim CEO, and Director of Administration leading fund development, strategic initiatives and administrative functions.

“The Board of Directors of Access Plus Capital is excited to announce that Tate Hill will be taking on the reigns as Executive Director of the organization. We had many qualified candidates apply but none were as knowledgeable and accomplished at Tate. We know he will take the organization to new heights and we look forward to assisting him in this endeavor.” Lee Ann Eager, President/CEO of Fresno County EDC and Access Plus Capital Board President.

Hill has helped raise over $14 million in loan and grant funds, spearheaded the rebranding of Access Plus Capital, and brought on much-needed systems for sustained growth. What started as a program of Fresno EOC to help small refugee farmers in Fresno County, has grown to provide capital to small and underserved businesses in a 14-county region throughout Central California. Hill has been an integral part of this expansion.

“As an African-American who grew up in southwest Fresno with the highest concentration of poverty in the US, I understand firsthand the importance of community economic development, financial inclusion, and racial justice work,” Hill said. “As we reflect on the current national, statewide, and local community, Access Plus Capital is uniquely positioned to undergird the important work of economic inclusion through access to capital.”

An advocate for racial and economic justice, Hill is board treasurer of the Greenlining Institute and executive committee member of the Fresno DRIVE Initiative focusing his work on supporting low-income and entrepreneurs of color. Previously, he was the President & CEO of the Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce that created the region’s first green business certification program and the Central Valley Business Diversity Expo.

Hill follows his predecessor, Salam Nalia, who recently retired from Fresno EOC after 27 years and was the CEO of Access Plus Capital for 11 years.

Hill holds a B.S. in Business Administration and Finance from Fresno State’s Craig School of Business and a M.S. in Community Economic Development from Southern New Hampshire University. He is native to Stockton, CA but was raised in southwest Fresno where he currently resides.

[/vc_column_text][dt_fancy_title title=”About Access Plus Capital”][vc_column_text]Access Plus Capital offers financing and training services for small businesses and entrepreneurs in Central California. Since its inception in 2009, its multilingual staff has lent over $35 million to hundreds of entrepreneurs, helping them realize their dreams by starting and growing their small businesses. Fresno CDFI dba Access Plus Capital is a subsidiary of the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC). More information can be found here: accesspluscapital.com.[/vc_column_text][dt_fancy_title title=”About Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission”][vc_column_text]Fresno EOC is a Community Action Agency (CAA), born from the Civil Rights Movement. Our agency is a private nonprofit organization, providing opportunities and resources to low-income Fresno County residents for over 54 years. Fresno EOC employs more than 1,100 workers and offers over 35 comprehensive community-based programs that empower individuals to thrive as healthy, self-sufficient and contributing members of our communities.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Thank You, Salam!

July 21, 2020

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs7HXJ0HtL4″ align=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This July, we bid farewell and happy retirement to our dear friend and founder, Salam, Salam Nalia was the Chief Executive Officer of Access Plus Capital and the Chief Financial Officer of our parent organization, Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC). He founded Access Plus Capital, then Fresno CDFI, in 2008 and under his leadership, Fresno CDFI grew from an institution with $500,000 in lending capital to one with over $17 million in revolving loan funds. Mr. Nalia has secured over $9 million from microloan programs operated by the SBA, U.S. Treasury, U.S. Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In 2008, he was also able to obtain $1 million in revolving loan fund capital from the SBA as one of 20 Intermediary Lending Pilot Program participants nationwide.

Throughout his career he has come to be regarded for his skillful leadership, development and management of financial systems, guiding numerous boards with his strategic financial acumen. He is also an innovator, having founded Fresno CDFI, and lead the effort to bring Self Help Federal Credit Union to Fresno. Internationally, he has served as a Country Head of Finance for American Express and served as Romania’s Honorary Consul General.

We’ll all miss Salam greatly, but his contribution to Access Plus Capital and the communities we serve will not go unnoticed. During his Virtual Farewell, he received a number of certificates for local, state, and federal elected officials and the Fresno Mayor and City Council declared Thursday, July 2, 2020, as Salam Nalia Day.

If you’d like to watch the replay of Salam’s Facebook Live retirement party click here! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Calling All Californians: #ShopSafeShopLocal

July 8, 2020

The last four months have presented Access Plus Capital with unimaginable challenges, and we are grateful to YOU for helping us through it with your continued support and thoughtful check-ins just to see how we were doing.

So many of you have reached out to let us know how much we mean to you. We are emboldened to come out of this crisis stronger than before, and we look to you as our partner in that effort.

We understand there’s one thing you need…TRUST.
You need to know you can trust us to keep your health and safety top of mind.
That’s why we are following the recommended state and local industry guidance, checklist, and best practices. And, we are proud to announce that we have joined the Calling ALL Californians: #ShopSafe#ShopLocal campaign.

Here’s a highlight of what we are doing:

Staying up-to-date on the latest state and local guidelines for our industry
Creating our own worksite specific plan
Regularly cleaning and disinfecting
Implementing the advised physical distancing, wearing face masks and following any other required guidance
Training our employees on above and more to help limit the spread of COVID-19 including how to watch for symptoms, self-screen and stay home when needed
And above all, creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and safe

Most importantly, we are coming together to co-create a safe experience for you and the community.

This means no matter how you decide to do business with us (whether it’s online or in-person), we’ve got you, our employees, and our community’s health and safety as our priorities!

Sincerely,

Access Plus Capital

Request for Proposal Legal Services APC 2020

June 23, 2020

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Fresno Community Development Financial Institution (Fresno CDFI) dba Access Plus Capital (APC), a small business lending subsidiary of Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC) is soliciting proposals to establish a contract with one (1) qualified and experienced legal firm to serve as Legal Counsel for APC and to provide legal services as mentioned in the scope and as needed.

Proposals will be considered from qualified and experienced firms who are regularly established in the business of legal services, including handling of bankruptcy cases. Only an attorney or legal firm who is licensed by the State of California and in good standing with the California Bar Association may respond. Through prior work performed, firms must be able to show evidence of reliability, ability, experience, and personnel to perform the services.

Proposal Submission:
Qualified firms are invited to submit a proposal digitally to trina.thames@accesspluscapital.com meeting the requirements described herein, and it must be received no later than 4:00 P.M. on August 7, 2020.[/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F06%2FRFP-Legal-Services-APC-2020.pdf||target:%20_blank|” size=”medium” button_alignment=”btn_center”]Download Full Legal RFP[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Calavera Coffee Shop

June 23, 2020

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Evan Morris of Calavera Coffee Shop had Access Plus Capital’s business card on his fridge for five years before he needed their help.

In 2015, Evan attended an Access Plus Capital, then CDFI, Workshop about funding and put the card on his fridge. Five years later when he was looking to expand his business, he finally gave them a call.

Calavera Coffee had been a part of the Hollister community as a coffee cart for a while, but they were looking to expand into their own space. When Evan approached different loan agencies, he was passed around through email chains and calls and felt the experience was very impersonal. With Access Plus Capital, things were done “old school”. Evan loved how they wanted to truly learn about his business, and get to know the person they’d be lending to.

Evan received assistance from Access Plus Capital team members Eddie and Ronna, and got through the process seamlessly. Access Plus Capital was helpful in making sure he knew exactly what he needed to provide, Evan said, “They would stay on the phone with me for a while, I felt like I was a priority.”

Now, Calavera Coffee Shop has transformed from a pop-up coffee bar to its own fully-fledged café. Calavera is a multi-roaster specialty coffee bar, they source their beans from small roasters all over the U.S. Their Baristas, all local artists, dream up new drinks for a specialty menu and keep to the classics with a basic menu. Calavera focuses on locally sourced ingredients like Santa Cruz Chai and Holy Kakow making them a favorite for San Benito County locals.

In the future, Calavera Coffee wants to open another location in Hollister, and eventually start their own specialty roaster. They’d also like to use the same strategy to expand into other cities, starting as a coffee bar, and eventually opening stand-alone cafes.

Access Plus Capital is proud to be a part of Calavera Coffee’s journey to success, and we look forward to seeing more from Evan and his team in the future! If you are a business owner in the San Benito area looking for funding, Access Plus Capital can help. Learn more about the Grow San Benito County Revolving Loan Fund here. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

County of Fresno Helping Underserved Businesses Grant

May 28, 2020

Apply Now for the Fresno County HUB Grant Program

Access Plus Capital is proud to announce the County of Fresno Helping Underserved Businesses (HUB) Grant Program. This $5,000 grant is intended to assist businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency. The business must be located within Fresno County and must not have received other COVID-19 economic disaster relief from SBA or the City of Fresno’s Save our Small Business program.

1000 businesses will be selected but you must apply online before the deadline of June 1, 2020 11:59 PM.

The purpose of the project is to make sure that small businesses throughout Fresno county who couldn’t access federal disaster relief are being provided with support. To help increase access the application, guidelines and explainer video is available in English, Spanish, Hmong and Punjabi by clicking the link here.

Meet Business Development Analyst Ernesto Ramirez

May 26, 2020

Meet Business Development Analyst Ernest! Central Valley native with 14 years of lending experience, and a passion for car restoration. Ernest loves educating business owners on available resources, and helping their businesses succeed.

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

I’m Ernest! I was born and raised in the Central Valley. I started my career in Lending 14 years ago working for both Retail banks and Not for Profit Credit Unions as a Lending Specialist in the Fresno and San Diego markets.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

I’m the Business Development Analyst, I help business’s with lending needs.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

My favorite part of Access Plus Capital is the staff. Everyone has been very welcoming including everyone at Fresno EOC. I’m very grateful to be part of an organization that gives back to the community.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

My favorite part of working with Business owners is educating them on all the resources that are available to them. It makes my heart happy when their eyes light up after informing them of local organizations that can help their Business succeed.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

Latest project I worked on was the City of Fresno Save Our Small Business Grant Program. Small Businesses drives our economy in Fresno, so providing relief to Small Businesses during uncertain times was an honor. Working with my colleagues in partnership with the City of Fresno was a unique experience overall.

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

One of my hobbies is restoring cars. I’m very passionate about giving back so I partner up with local law enforcement agencies and donate bikes to underprivileged kids in the community. Check out our Instagram page at @bikes4smiles. I enjoy traveling to San Diego, if I ever go missing you can find me at the beach!

Want to work with Ernesto to see what programs are available to you? Then be sure to stop into our office and inquire about our loans. As soon as you’re approved, we’ll set Ernesto to work!

Meet Portfolio Manager Baldev Birk

April 24, 2020

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

I’m the Business Development Analyst, I help business’s with lending needs.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

Want to work with Ernesto to see what programs are available to you? Then be sure to stop into our office and inquire about our loans. As soon as you’re approved, we’ll set Ernesto to work!

What We’re Doing to Help Small Businesses During the Pandemic

March 28, 2020

What We’re Doing to Help Local Businesses During the Pandemic

Our goal is to make sure your business has the resources you need to weather this storm. If you’re looking for some specific things you can do right now to protect your business, check out our blog post on The 7 Action Items to Stay Afloat During the Pandemic. Below we’re sharing some resources available to you including SBA loans, APC loans & resources, as well as marketing resources from Butler Branding.

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)

One option available for small businesses is EIDL. Small businesses, agricultural cooperatives, aquaculture businesses, and most private non-profit organizations are eligible to apply. These are long-term, low-interest loans with retainment terms up to 30 years. For more information on these loans, watch the replay of our webinar with SBA, or learn more on the SBA website.

This disaster relief program extends through December 2020. There is no limit on the number of businesses SBA can assist, so you have time to decide if you need this assistance. Payments on these loans are also deferred for 12 months to give businesses immediate working capital and breathing room before repayment. There is no cost to apply, and approval does not require you to accept the loan.

Access Plus Capital Loan Options

Access Plus Capital encourages everyone to apply for SBA loans if they are eligible. We know the eligibility and documentation required for the SBA loans can sometimes be a challenge for some business owners. If you are in a situation where you don’t have all the documentation to apply for the SBA disaster relief loans, Access Plus Capital has some options that don’t require as much documentation:

Nanoloans ($5,000 to $20,000)
- - Requires 3 months of Bank Statements and 1 year of tax return
  - Credit: 550+
Microloans ($20,000 to $50,000)
- Requires 1 year of tax return
- Credit: 600+

All of our products can be applied for online here. Besides our loan products, we are also hosting a weekly Pandemic Webinar Series providing you with resources to maintain business continuity. Keep an eye on our social media and email updates to learn more.

Marketing During the Pandemic

Butler Branding has made their Marketing Strategy workbook available for free here. This workbook will help you identify and prioritize your target audience, create a compelling offer, select marketing platforms, and create an inbound, outbound, & networking strategy for each platform. This is a great resource you can use to work on your business during the pandemic.

Butler Branding is also offering Free Studio Time & Production for select businesses. If churches, non-profits, etc. are trying to communicate to their audiences, and these communications will reduce public gatherings, Fresno County considers relaying this message to be an essential service. This service is available for these circumstances:

Announcements for businesses providing critical services
Businesses who have had to change the delivery of products or services
Businesses and organizations offering relief of programs for those in our community

Contact video@butlerbranding.com to learn more.

Now it is more important than ever to communicate with your email list. If you aren’t sure how to start email marketing, Butler Branding can get you set-up on their recommended platform, upload your email list, and strategize your campaigns. You can email art@butlerbranding.com with the subject: “Set Up My Email Marketing” to get started for free.

To see all marketing resources available through Butler Branding, visit the COVID-19 Help page on their website.

7 Action Items to Stay Afloat During the Pandemic

March 28, 2020

Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic, many businesses are needing to pivot strategies to stay afloat. Below is a list of seven things you can do immediately to help your business during this time.

1) Expense Triage

Review your Profit & Loss Statement

Evaluate and understand your finances so you can streamline your business. See where you can reduce and eliminate expenses.

Cut Unnecessary Expenses

Take a look at any subscriptions or memberships that might be unnecessary during this period of financial uncertainty. Cancel anything nonessential your business can survive without.

2) Contact Vendors

Review all Contracts

Make sure you’re in contact with your vendors and fully understand your agreements in the event you need to break a contract. Remember your vendors want to keep you as a client and are going through the same thing as you.

Negotiate longer terms

Discuss with your vendors if they’re offering any deferments or payment plan options. Try to come to an agreement that will keep you both afloat.

3) Contact Service Providers

PG&E / Utility Company
Phone
Maintenance / Landscaping
Cell Phone provider

Many service providers are offering deferments, keep an eye out for their updates as they make announcements about policy changes.

4) Contact your Landlord

Landlords are working with their tenants to extend deferments or pausing rent for a period of time. Stay in communication with your landlord. See if they’d be willing to give you some payment reprieve or deferment. Again, remember they want to keep you as a client.

5) Property Insurance – Active is important!

If you’re temporarily closing your physical business location, make sure that your resources are protected from any economic or environmental disasters. Talk with your provider to review policy and be certain you’ll be protected.

6) Small Business Buying Pools

Many small businesses are doing everything they can to stay afloat. Try to join with others in your industry to place bulk orders and share in large expenses. Using these buying pools can be highly effective in reducing expenses.

7) Have Employees Contact EDD

If you do need to temporarily lay off employees, make sure they’re aware of unemployment options through the EDD. The governor has waived the 1-week wait period for benefits.

Payment Deferment

March 27, 2020

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Dear Access Plus Capital Customers,

Due to the recent outbreak of COVID-19, and the economic impact on small business, Access Plus Capital will provide a payment deferment to existing borrowers until May 1. Upon request, borrowers would not be required to make their April 1 payment.
Our staff is available to help businesses throughout the Valley. Staff will primarily work remotely by phone and email Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM. Access Plus Capital asks clients to remit payment, loan documents, and applications online or by email or traditional mail.

APC is a big partner for small businesses and we hope this will help your business continue to strive during this health and economic emergency.

Sincerely,

The Access Plus Capital Team[/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2020%2F03%2FCHANGE_IN_TERMS_AGREEMENT_APC_version_3.pdf|||” size=”big” button_alignment=”btn_center”]DOWNLOAD THE FORM[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Meet Loan Processing Analyst Ronna Martinez

March 9, 2020

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]A ton of paperwork and coordination is required to finalize a business loan, and it takes a special kind of person to manage all the details. Thankfully, Loan Processing Analyst Ronna Martinez is that special kind of person! Ronna’s diligence, team spirit, and natural curiosity make her perfect for this position, as she’ll tell you herself in our latest Meet the Team interview.

First, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

I was born and raised in Madera and moved to Fresno in 2001 for work. I have been in the lending world in one way or another since 2003, working on the wholesale side of mortgage lending and insurance financing. Before 2003, I was an operations manager for an audio/video plant in Northwest Fresno for five years.

What do you do at Access Plus Capital?

My title is Loan Processing Analyst, and my main job is to close and fund loans after underwriting approval. This includes (but isn’t limited to) collecting compliance items, drawing loan documents, notarizing client signatures, and perfecting our loan collateral with government agencies such as the DMV and County Recorder’s offices. I often work on a handful of active loans each day, which keeps me pretty busy.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital?

There are two equally great reasons I love working here. First, my manager allows her team’s voices to be heard! I have worked for several big banks where operational staff are not encouraged to pass their suggestions along to upper management. Here, my manager welcomes any and all ideas that can improve our daily operations and our efficiency.

Second, I love my team! They are some of the hardest-working, most knowledgeable, and most diligent people I’ve had the pleasure of working with. We all feel very strongly about Access Plus Capital’s primary mission, which is to help small business owners flourish. That makes it easy and fun to collaborate and help our clients reach their goals!

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

I am a people person, and I also love to learn. Developing relationships with small business owners and providing them with the resources they need to be successful allows me to satisfy my joy in getting to know people. During these conversations, I like to ask our clients about their business and the services they provide, which satisfies my joy of learning.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

I recently closed a business acquisition that was not only a bulk sale escrow (a transfer of fixed assets), but also a stock purchase (a transfer of stocks from the seller to the buyer). A title company, a bulk sale escrow company, an attorney, and myself all worked together to make the deal happen as quickly as possible. And we did it!

What are some of your outside of work hobbies and interests?

I have two sons, ages 27 and 6. I love spending time with them, whether we are just watching TV, going to the park, or going out to eat. I also love interior design and decorating.

Want Ronna to put the finishing touches on your next small business loan? Then be sure to stop into our office and inquire about our loans. As soon as you’re approved, we’ll set Ronna to work! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Meet Lending Assistant Sandra Mesa

February 20, 2020

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]When you walk into Access Plus Capital’s Fresno office, Sandra Mesa will nearly always be the first to greet you. As our Lending Assistant, Sandra’s responsible for making visitors welcome, answering our phones, and making sure the Access Plus team is operating as efficiently as possible.

Because Sandra’s face is one of the first you’re likely to see as you get to know Access Plus Capital, we wanted to get to know Sandra herself a little better. Which is why we recently asked her to share a bit about her life, her time at Access Plus Capital, and her deep love of softball.

First, Sandra, tell me a little about yourself. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

I worked for Fresno County Rural Transit Agency (FCRTA) as an Accounting Manager for 17 years. When I worked for FCRTA, I had countless communications with the Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (EOC), which provided most of our services. So I knew working for Access Plus Capital, which is a subsidiary of the EOC, would be incredibly rewarding.

So tell me a bit about what you do at Access Plus Capital (besides being one of the most welcoming front desk people I’ve met).

Well, I am the Lending Assistant at Access Plus Capital. I mainly assist our Credit Department, but I assist all our departments as much as possible. I am the first person you see when you walk into our office, and I am the friendly voice you hear over the phone when you give us a call.

What is your favorite part of working at Access Plus Capital, and with the business owners you serve?

I love seeing the enthusiasm of our startup clients, and hearing about the visions they have for their new businesses. And I also love when clients come back into our office and make a payment, because I get to talk with them about how their business is doing. I always enjoy hearing about their progress and success.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

The most unique project I helped out with recently was our 10-year anniversary party. And I’m happy to say that it was a success! Seeing all the people who attended to celebrate our 10th anniversary with us was very pleasing.

And finally, what are some of your outside-of-work hobbies? What might Access Plus visitors not realize you’re into?

My husband and I have been managing a travelling softball team for six years now. Our granddaughter plays on the team as well. I love seeing the development and progress of our team. Softball is my life outside of work!

Now you know – the next time you stop into our Fresno office, be sure to ask Sandra about her softball team! She’ll be delighted to tell you how her team is doing, while she gets a hold of whatever information or Access Plus team member you need to grow your business. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Meet Technical Assistance Specialist Joi Eubanks

January 15, 2020

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Both before and after receiving a business loan from Access Plus Capital, you’ll likely work closely with Joi Eubanks. While Joi’s job title is “technically” Technical Assistance Specialist, she’s actually responsible for a lot of the coaching, guidance, and financial analysis that we provide small business owners. (Joi is also a skilled trumpet player and a former WWF wrestler, but those two things don’t come up so much in her day-to-day.)

Recently, we asked Joi to share a little about herself, her job, and why she loves helping small business owners achieve their goals – so you can get to know one of the people most responsible for our clients’ post-loan success.

Joi, tell me a little bit about your background. What did you do before you became part of the Access Plus Capital team?

Great question! I’ve been a staple in the Central Valley’s small business world for over 15 years. For 10 years, I was the Program Coordinator for Central California Small Business Development Center. While I was there, I learned the ins and outs of entrepreneurship, as well as what causes businesses to succeed and fail.

I was also the Regional Business Development Manager for the Valley Economic Development Center, which is one of the country’s largest CDFIs. And most recently before I came to Access Plus Capital, I was the Senior Business Development Banker for Tri Counties Bank. That position provided me with a lot of conventional and retail financial and banking knowledge, from a corporate point of view.

So how would you describe your position at Access Plus Capital?

While my title is Technical Assistance Specialist, I personally think my role is a lot more tactical. Those adjectives (“technical” and “tactical”) might sound similar, but my particular skill set (technical) is used to maneuver a business (tactically) toward a desired end. So maybe my title should be Small Business Tactics Expert!

Essentially, I’m the go-to person for post- and pre-loan assistance for our borrowers. My job starts before the client even applies for a loan; I’m responsible for getting them “loan ready.” And then, I also work with them on the other side, after their loan has been funded.

It’s my job to make sure their business is on the right track, and on a good trajectory for paying back their loan, refinancing, and eventually, seeking additional funds. So I do a lot of one-on-one business consulting, as well as analyzing clients’ financials.

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

My greatest satisfaction and joy comes when a business owner or entrepreneur’s goals are met. Whether that’s securing a loan so they can start a business no one else believed in, expanding an existing business, or getting their payoff statement from us and saying, “Joi, I did it. Thank you for believing in me!”

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

My latest project was working on our D.R.I.V.E. initiative, and building the blueprint for a loan fund that is totally geared toward community reinvestment, financial synergy, and closing the wealth gap – which is unprecedented in Fresno.

What are some of your outside-of-work hobbies?

It depends on the season! When I’m not hanging with my 13-year-old son, during the summer you can find me on the lake with my speedboat. During the fall and spring, I’m riding my Yamaha WR250 dirt bike, and during the winter, I’m shredding powder on my snowboard. I’m all outdoors, all the time.

Want to become one of the many business owners that Joi has coached toward success? Click here to learn more about Access Plus Capital’s small business loan programs. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Meet Bakersfield Business Development Manager Edward Palomar

November 22, 2019

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Originally born in Granada Hills, Edward “Eddie” Palomar’s family moved to Bakersfield in the ‘90s – and he’s lived there ever since. From Access Plus Capital’s Bakersfield office, Eddie helps local entrepreneurs grow the community he loves, and he gets to learn a lot about his adopted hometown in the process.

Eddie, tell me a little about who you are and what you do at Access Plus Capital.

I was born in Granada Hills in the San Fernando Valley. But my family moved to Bakersfield in the ‘90s, and I have been here ever since. I graduated from Cal State Bakersfield with a Business Administration degree, with a concentration in Marketing. I have been in the banking industry for 15 years, working my way up from teller, to personal banker, to branch manager. And then I became a Business Relationship Manager, and now I am a Business Development Manager at Access Plus Capital.

My role is to promote Access Plus’s products and services. I also educate our community by hosting workshops that show new and existing business owners how they can get access to the capital they need. I work throughout Kern and Tulare County, and I serve as a board member for Bakersfield SCORE and CAPK (Community Action Partnership of Kern). On top of all that, I collect financials and process applications for the business owners working with us.

What is your favorite part of working in Bakersfield?

Bakersfield is home. I’ve seen this city grow so much. When we first moved here, the population was just under 200,000. Today, it is nearing 400,000. I like to network with fellow bankers who have the same passion that I do. All of us want to make this city the best possible place to live.

Adding more jobs and jumpstarting new businesses is what I live for. Plus, I like the recognition I get from previous clients, thanking me for helping them start or expand their business. That makes me feel like I am making a difference in my community. Who wouldn’t like that?

What is your favorite part of working with business owners?

Their passion for their businesses. Every business owner takes pride in their work and their products or services. I love meeting new people and seeing how their businesses operate. Every business is different, which makes every day unique.

The fact that I am able to be out in the community is also pretty awesome. I enjoy being able to meet new business owners and visit their place of business, how fun is that? It is also rewarding feeling to see a client’s dream become a reality. They dream of expanding or starting a business but don’t know where to start. That is where we come in and guide them in the right direction. They are forever grateful, which makes me want to work harder and help others meet their financial needs.

What’s the latest project you worked on? What was unique about it?

The most recent project I worked on was for a very unique business. This gentleman wanted to purchase the building where he currently operates his business. He is contracted by farm laborers to feed farmer workers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Kern and Tulare Counties, year-round. I didn’t know that type of business existed,so I was intrigued and wanted to know more.

The business is very profitable and creditable. The loan amount was $259,000. He went to a couple of different financial institutions, but he felt like they didn’t take him seriously. The lenders weren’t calling him back, or they said they hadn’t had a chance to look at his application. He started to get discouraged, until he found us.

When I was introduced to him by a business consultant from the Bakersfield Small Business Development Center, I knew I had to help him, because of how unique his business was and what he does for our community. After reviewing his financials, we determined the business was able to support the requested loan amount, and we approved the loan. That loan should be funded in the next couple weeks, which is a great way to end the year!

What are some of your outside-of-work hobbies?

I love going to music festivals like Coachella and Outside Lands. I like many types of music, not necessarily one genre. That is a huge reason why I like music festivals, because there are multiple artists performing on different stages at the same time. I also like to work out and stay active. But most importantly, I also love to travel; I am very outgoing. Take me anywhere, and I will make friends anywhere I go!

Want to become friends with Eddie? Stop in to Access Plus Capital’s Bakersfield office, and inquire about a business loan – which Eddie would be more than happy to help you out with. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Access Plus Capital Invests in Modesto Butcher Shop – and Local Agriculture

November 14, 2019

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Within less than a year, The Village Butcher has become a popular lunch spot for Modesto residents. Access Plus Capital helped Matt Soderstrom bring his vision of an all-encompassing butcher shop to life, bringing together local farmers and businesses from within a 50-mile radius to provide residents with high-quality goods.

“Neither of us had experience taking on a loan for a new business,” Matt said. “It was difficult to find someone willing to take on that risk. Fatima Seward, [my banker at BAC Community Bank in Modesto], suggested Access Plus Capital because of how supportive they are with new and unique businesses.”

Access Plus Capital staff helped The Village Butcher launch successfully – providing business expertise and knowledge, while Matt applied his previous butcher shop experience and innovative ideas.

“We are so happy to have helped Matt launch The Village Butcher,” said Ana Medina, Access Plus Capital’s Director of Business Development. “Part of our mission is to strengthen the communities we work within, and Matt is focused on that same goal.”

For The Village Butcher, choosing a local lender, like Access Plus Capital, was important in their efforts to keep money local. The butcher shop is known for its deli, restaurant, high-quality meat, seafood, and dog food, all of which use locally-sourced ingredients.

“We need to think about how many of our dollars stay local,” Matt said. “Whether the money goes to employee wages, Access Plus Capital, or ranchers, we want cash flow to stay local in all aspects – so we are investing in the community rather than a large corporation.”

With a startup loan paying for his renovation costs, equipment purchases, working capital, Matt has been able to focus on growing his business by expanding his catering selection and hiring more staff. When The Village Butcher opened in May 2019, they started with a skeleton crew of five employees, but they have now doubled that amount.

The Village Butcher Is Already Planning for Future Expansion

Hiring on more staff has allowed Matt to focus on future expansion plans and customer education. The Village Butcher’s open floor plan allows customers to see how their meats are prepared and get a better understanding of where their food comes from, as soon as they step in the door. Meats are also labelled with tags from their original farm and city.

Soon, Matt hopes to take his customers’ education a step further. The Village Butcher plans to offer culinary cooking classes at the beginning of 2020.

“I see the void of culinary education in Modesto, and I think we have an opportunity to offer that at our shop,” Matt said. “With education, we can train and teach people how to use a whole animal for cooking.”

The Village Butcher has been in business less than a year, but it is already creating jobs, educating its customers, and highlighting the Central Valley’s agricultural assets.

Learn more about how your business could take flight, with an Access Plus Capital Startup Loan.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The Access Plus Capital Advantage

September 30, 2019

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Flexible Credit Options

We can take a chance on businesses that banks can’t.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Comprehensive Coaching

We offer a wealth of free workshops, advice, and assistance to the businesses we work with – because we truly want them to succeed.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Focus on High-Growth Businesses

We’re looking to add the most value we can to our customers’ growth. That’s why we often work with startups or businesses who are looking to grow or expand quickly.

If you’ve previously had difficulties getting a loan, or you need comprehensive business assistance, we’d love to help you out![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.com%2Floans%2F||target:%20_blank|” size=”big” button_alignment=”btn_center”]View Our Loan Products[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

A Big Partner for Small Businesses

September 30, 2019

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Access Plus Capital has been growing businesses and sustaining jobs in Central California since 2009. No matter what your business goals are, we will help you reach them![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]

Services

Loan preparation assistance
Capital workshops and ongoing classes
Business coaching for startups and existing businesses
Information and referral to other agencies and lending institutions

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Small Business Loans

We provide loans for:

Gap and bridge financing
Machinery and equipment
Business acquisitions
Commercial real estate
Letters of credit
Working capital
Tenant improvements
Franchises
Startup loans
Business debt refinancing

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Eligibility

We target businesses in fourteen counties. Requirements include:

Credit check
1:1 collateral (unless you qualify for credit enhancement or SBA guarantee)
Completed business plan (for start-ups)

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Loan Products

Startup loans – Up to 75% of startup costs for new businesses
Microloans – Up to $50,000 for existing businesses
Enterprise loans – Up to $1MM for existing businesses

[/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.com%2Floan-products%2F||target:%20_blank|” size=”big” button_alignment=”btn_center”]Learn More[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Loan Products

September 30, 2019

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Startup Business

Up to 75% of startup cost
In-house underwriting
Credit enhancement programs (SBA 7a, State Guarantee, CalCAP)
Loan preparation assistance

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Microloans

$5,000 to $50,000
Existing businesses (w/one full tax return)
Two-day pre-qualification
Documentation and terms based on loan amount and purpose

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Enterprise Loan

$50,000 to $1MM
In-house underwriting
Credit enhancement programs (SBA 7a, State Guarantee, CalCAP)

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We Finance

Franchises and startups
Machinery and equipment
Tenant improvements
Business debt refinancing
Commercial real estate
Gap financing
Business acquisitions
Letter of credit

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Terms

Up to 25 years
Fixed rates from 6 to 8.25% interest
Two point origination and guarantee fees (if applicable)
No pre-pay penalties

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Bakersfield’s Tiki-Ko moves from start-up to expansion with Access Plus Capital

August 30, 2019

Downtown Bakersfield is home to Tiki-Ko, a bar with tropical and Caribbean inspirations, described as “a shady place for sunny people.” It’s been three years since business partners Sonya and Roy Scarazzo received a start-up loan from Access Plus Capital and now with business booming, they look forward to expanding their business with a second loan.

“Access Plus Capital helped us with everything. Sonya said. “Since we had working capital in the first year of our business, we were able to spend the money on what we needed. Without the first loan, we wouldn’t have money for furnishings, lamps, custom artwork and designing the interior the way we wanted to.”

Working with Access Plus Capital gave the pair the freedom to open their dream Tiki bar known for its unique island-inspired cocktails, tropical décor and souvenir drink cups.

Now Sonya and Roy are working with Access Plus Capital to take their business to the next level. With a second loan, Tiki-Ko will be able to open up the basement and have two levels, allowing more space for customers to enjoy the exotic drinks and neon lights.

It’s safe to say the basement renovation is highly anticipated by residents in Bakersfield. Every weekend there is a line outside the door and with nearly 7,000 followers on Instagram, Tiki-Ko’s customer base is only growing. Through social media, Tiki-Ko has been able to connect with other nightlife locations and potential customers across the world.

“When we first started our business, we didn’t have a lot of money to advertise,” Roy said. “Now we have a local but also national and international following of the bar. We have Tiki bars following us from other states and even other countries like London and Japan.”

Roy takes on the creative role by promoting Tiki-Ko through social media and managing the day-to-day operations. He calls Sonya the brains of the business; she made the initial business plan and found Access Plus Capital three years ago while searching for small business loans.

“A lot of people want to do things by themselves but a loan with working capital gave us the cushion we needed for our businesses within the first year,” Sonya said. “Since then we’ve stuck to what we know and made it a place we would want to go to. A place that’s not too loud with soft music and fun drinks.”

Tiki-Ko’s growing online presence, tasty drink selection and dedicated business partners allowed the location to make its mark as a local tropical watering hole. The business is scheduled to finish renovating the basement by November and Access Plus Capital looks forward to supporting Tiki-Ko throughout the process.

Meet Esosa Imoisili at Access Plus Capital

August 30, 2019

Imoisili joined the Access Plus Capital team in March 2019 as the Technical Assistant Analyst, guiding clients through their business endeavors once they completed the loan process. With over 20 years of experience in the finance and insurance sector, Imoisili brings expertise in sales, marketing, client outreach and loan management. Imoisili received his Bachelor of Arts at Shepherd University and is currently pursuing his Master’s in Business Administration at Southern New Hampshire University.

What is your role at Access Plus Capital?

“I manage the relationships with our businesses after they become our client. Since we are a mission driven agency, there are a lot of resources and knowledge we provide to help our clients grow. We are forming relationships, meeting new people, helping businesses and doing site visits. At Access Plus Capital, I get to see the passion that burns within our business owners when they talk about their business and that fuels me to help anyway I can to see them succeed.”

What is the best part about working with businesses?

“My favorite part is going out and meeting people at their place of business. I look at our business owners as an organic network where we can all learn from each other. In my position, it’s great to help facilitate that growth and learn along the way about the different dynamic problems that businesses face daily. It is a partnership and my goal is to help that business succeed and at the same time use that information to help another business that may face the same challenges. It’s a challenge but one that is worthwhile and fulfilling.”

What drives your passion to serve clients?

“The goal is to help people because when you help people everything else falls into place. I don’t have to choose between a company’s objectives and helping a business grow. Working with Access Plus Capital made sense on so many different levels. It is different here compared to a for-profit company. It’s about how can we help businesses thrive, so these companies can give back to the community. That’s one of the biggest things I love about this job. That’s what fuels my passion to help people.”

Learn How to Protect Your Business in the Event of Illness or Injury

June 18, 2019

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Have you ever wondered what would happen to your business if you were suddenly affected by a disabling illness or injury? Business Overhead Expense Insurance allows you to protect your business while you recover – and ensures you’ll have a business to return to.

On June 28 at 2 pm, Access Plus Capital financial representative Esosa Imoisili is hosting a FREE workshop in which he’ll explain the ins and outs of Business Overhead Expense Insurance. Esosa will be joined by a representative from Principal Financial Group, who will answer questions like:

Why might I need Business Overhead Expense Insurance?
What does Business Overhead Expense Insurance provide?
When and how does it kick in?
What are my coverage options?

To RSVP for this free workshop (or ask questions ahead of time), click the button below to email Esosa.[/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:mailto%3Aesosaimoisili%40accesspluscapital.com||target:%20_blank|” size=”medium” button_alignment=”btn_center”]RSVP Today[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Thank You for 10 Years of Success

May 8, 2019

[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”8390″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_column_text]We’d like to thank everyone who came out to celebrate our 10th anniversary with us last Thursday! We had a fantastic time partying with you all at Fresno EOC Plaza, and we hope you enjoyed the food, atmosphere, and camaraderie that we saw on display:[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][dt_gallery_masonry mode=”grid” bwb_columns=”desktop:3|h_tablet:4|v_tablet:3|phone:2″ gap_between_posts=”10px” image_sizing=”resize” image_border_radius=”0px” project_icon_border_width=”0px” include=”8396,8397,8398,8399,8402,8401″][vc_empty_space height=”16 px”][vc_column_text]You all are the reason we’ve been able to make an impact throughout the Central Valley community over the last decade. And we know that, with your continued support, we’ll be able to continue providing funding and guidance to Central Valley businesses for years to come.[/vc_column_text][vc_empty_space height=”12 px”][vc_single_image image=”8400″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_empty_space height=”12 px”][vc_column_text]Below is a list of the businesses, partners, and other honorees we recognized during last week’s 10th Anniversary Awards Ceremony. We’d like to thank these Access Plus All-Stars again for their years of support, service, and working with us, and wish them continued success:

Partner of the Decade

- U.S. Small Business Administration – Fresno District Office

Urban Minority-Owned Business Award

- Candies Tolteca, Inc.

- Mad Illustrators

Urban Woman-Owned Business Award

- Stella Style, Inc.

Rural Minority-Owned Business Award

- Tranquility Market

Rural Business Award

- Salter’s Distributing, Inc.

Banker with a Heart Award

- Gil Lara

Above & Beyond Champion

- Tim Rios

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Access Plus Capital Receives Grant to Help Grow Small Businesses in Rural California

December 14, 2018

MUFG Union Bank presented Access Plus Capital, a subsidiary of Fresno EOC, with a $25,000 grant to provide business development events and workshops to rural communities across the Central Valley.

Access Plus Capital receives grants from the Governor’s Office and Chase Bank to provide loan and business coaching to Central Valley small businesses and entrepreneurs.

November 13, 2018

Access Plus Capital receives grants from the Governor’s Office and Chase Bank to provide loan and business coaching to Central Valley small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Access Plus Capital supports Small Business Borrower’s Bill of Rights

January 4, 2018

Access Plus Capital is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) serving Central California’s small businesses through a variety of financial products and services from start-up funds for entrepreneurs, to loans up to $500,000 for more established businesses. With offices in Fresno and Bakersfield, they have a mission to create economic opportunities and build wealth in the low- and moderate-income communities they serve…

Access Plus Capital expands its footprint into the south Central Valley with opening of a Bakersfield office.

December 12, 2017

Today Access Plus Capital in partnership with Self Help Federal Credit Union unveiled its new Bakersfield office. With the office now accessible to small businesses in the South Valley, Access Plus Capital aims to further its goal of an economically prosperous Central California powered by entrepreneurs.

Bank of the West Gives $300,000 to Support Small Businesses and Jobs in California’s Central Valley

December 11, 2017

Bank of the West announced $300,000 in grants today to support small business growth and job creation in California’s Central Valley.

Four nonprofits will receive $75,000 each to support entrepreneurs and small business owners and also spur regional job growth. The grants will directly fund programs that start, strengthen, and grow businesses from San Joaquin to KernCounties.

Report: Lending disparities cost Fresno small businesses millions of dollars

November 2, 2017

https://thebusinessjournal.com/report-lending-disparities-cost-fresno-small-businesses-millions-dollars/

Fresno CDFI is now Access Plus Capital

October 23, 2017

(Fresno, CA) — Fresno Community Development Financial Institution (Fresno CDFI) officially launched its new name and brand as Access Plus Capital at its Fresno office in downtown Fresno.

Access Plus Capital started as a program of Fresno EOC as Fresno CDFI to help small refugee farmers in Fresno County. Over the last decade, the organization has grown from providing capital in one county to helping more than 500+ businesses in a 14-county region throughout Central California. The agency has now grown beyond its geographic specific name and leadership felt that the name Fresno CDFI didn’t sufficiently support the organization’s vision of an economically prosperous Central California powered by entrepreneurs.

The new name Access Plus Capital conveys the organization’s philosophy of supporting the needs of small, diverse and underserved businesses to ‘access’ capital, plus the services they provide to the small businesses including the training and resources to help them grow. The rebranding represents its successful and ongoing transition to an agency that is supportive of small and growing businesses throughout Central California.

This is an exciting new chapter for the mission-based lender. “We are happy to be expanding to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and companies from Bakersfield to Stockton,” says Salam Nalia, the founding and current CEO of Access Plus Capital. The organization is scheduled to open a new offices in Bakersfield early fall and in Modesto by the beginning of 2018. Salam continues, “this new name will help us better connect to businesses throughout the state.”

About Access Plus Capital
Access Plus Capital offers financing and training services for small businesses and entrepreneurs in Central California. Since its inception in 2009, its multilingual staff has lent over $20 million to hundreds of entrepreneurs helping them realize their dreams by starting and growing their small business. Access Plus Capital (dba Fresno CDFI) is a subsidiary of Fresno Economic Opportunities Commission (Fresno EOC). More information can be found here: www.accesspluscapital.com.

Access Plus Capital becomes a Preferred Lender by the U.S. Small Business Administration

August 17, 2017

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Access Plus Capital becomes a Preferred Lender by the U.S. Small Business Administration[/vc_column_text][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2019%2F05%2FFresno-CDFI-7150822-DA-Approval-letter-8-17-2017.pdf||target:%20_blank|” size=”medium”]Read Approval Letter[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Fresno CDFI receives $1 million grant to expand support of low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs

April 4, 2017

[vc_row][vc_column][dt_default_button link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Faccesspluscapital.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F07%2FPress-Release-Fresno-CDFI-1M-Irvine-Foundation-04042017.pdf||target:%20_blank|” size=”big”]Read Press Release[/dt_default_button][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Cali Tattoo Photos

August 4, 2016

Faith Living Recovery

July 7, 2016

Treasurer Chiang Helps Fresno Business Expand

November 30, 2015

https://vimeo.com/147395134

SBA PRIME Grant provides funding for series of small business workshops

October 23, 2015

Operating a small business requires understanding a wide variety of skills from accounting to marketing to managing personnel. Relatively few entrepreneurs have an MBA degree or the time to go to school to get one! Yet business acumen and management skill are major factors in business success.

Recognizing this, Fresno CDFI is embarking on an ambitious project to provide 24 workshops over the next year covering topics ranging from incorporation to human resource management to financial reporting. Workshops will be held in-person throughout Fresno CDFI’s 12 county region, as well as via online webinars. The series kicks off on November 18 in Fresno with a workshop exploring the benefits of incorporating.

For more information about upcoming workshops visit Fresno CDFI’s events page at https://accesspluscapital.com/events/

Wooldridge Softball Academy in Modesto, CA has a New Home

October 23, 2015

Melissa Whitehead was a star softball player through her college years but after suffering a serious accident she was unable to continue. Instead she decided to teach her love for the game to the next generation of players. She started Wooldridge Softball Academy in 2007 – an indoor, year-round training facility developing female athletes from the ages of 5 to 23. Her training emphasizes the physical mechanics and mental toughness necessary to compete at all levels. The business’s mission is to positively impact each and every person they encounter through participation in a well defined and disciplined program.

After leasing an industrial warehouse in Modesto, CA for 7 years, Melissa wanted to construct a facility on the ranch her and her husband had recently purchased. This way she would be able to see her young children much more regularly and literally bring her work and home life closer together.

A loan from Fresno CDFI helped owner Melissa Whitehead construct the new facility. As a result of the move, the company will be able to decrease its expenses by around 20% and increase its hours of operations – allowing Melissa to increase the time she can devote to training her customers as well as hire an additional part-time trainer.

Fresno CDFI Sponsors Week of Discovering Business Opportunities for a Better Blackstone

October 23, 2015

The Better Blackstone Association is excited to announce our Week of Discovering Business Opportunities for a Better Blackstone, November 16-19, 2015!

With experts from various fields of corridor revitalization, we’ll be offering a number opportunities to learn and connect with others who believe a “Better Blackstone Means a Better Fresno!” Michele Reeves from CIVILIS Consulting, Paul Zykofsky and Josh Meyer from the Local Government Commission and other local experts from Fresno Community Development Financial Institution and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be facilitating workshops all week about what it will take to make the Blackstone corridor thrive as a place to invest, do business, shop, work, play and live healthy lives.

Calling ALL Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs: Save the date for our Wednesday, Nov. 18- Small Businesses on a Big Corridor from 6:30pm-8:30pm at Fresno City College-OAB Rm 251. National experts in corridor revitalization will share with existing Blackstone business owners and interested entrepreneurs how to increase sales and expand customer base by getting people to cross cultural boundaries. The U.S. SBA and Fresno CDFI will also share details about the excellent business and entrepreneurship training, coaching and financing available in the Fresno area.

And stay tuned for more information on our workshop Thursday, Nov. 19, from 5-7pm, Building Blocks for Economically Successful Commercial Corridors, an open discussion on what it will take from businesses and residents alike to revitalize the Blackstone Corridor! Everyone with a positive vision for Blackstone is invited! Hmong and Spanish translation will be available.

Sign up at www.betterblackstone.com/join to stay up to date on all the activities for this exciting Week of Opportunities!

News and Press

Scale Fresno Launches with $1M from The James Irvine Foundation

May 23, 2025

SCORE Simple Steps – Session 4 – Financial Projections

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Meet Alma Wolverton of Pum Bum Society

June 22, 2025

“Anyone out there looking to make their dream come true… know you are in the right hands with Access Plus Capital.” – Alma Wolverton

Scale Fresno Launches with Commitment from The James Irvine Foundation to Drive Inclusive Small Business Growth

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A Blueprint for Impact: Scale Fresno’s Investable Plan

CAPITAL

CAPACITY

COMMUNITY

About Scale Fresno

Get Your Business Ready for Tax Season: Q1 Tax Prep Checklist

January 7, 2025

Community West Bank Makes EQ2 Investment in Access Plus Capital to Fuel Small Business Growth

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Bridging the Rural and Climate Justice Gap: Wells Fargo supports Access Plus Capital

November 14, 2024

Valley Green Futures: Unlocking Potential in a Resilient Central Valley

October 1, 2024

Access Plus Capital’s Vision for a Cleaner Central California

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Building Capacity for Green Lending: Partnerships for Success

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Employee Spotlight – Sonexay Sopha: Building a More Equitable Central Valley

May 10, 2024

Employee Spotlight – Harry Hamparian

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Navigating the Complex Landscape of CDFI Small Business Lending

March 15, 2024

Access Plus Capital Begins a New Era

January 18, 2024

Matthew Marchbanks – Building Bridges of Opportunity in the Central Valley

December 19, 2023

Employee Spotlight – Melissa: A Catalyst for Change at Access Plus Capital

November 15, 2023

Passion Born from Experience

From Finance to CDFIs

Empowering Dreams, One Client at a Time

Making a Real Difference

Advice for Aspiring CDFI Professionals

PRESS RELEASE: Access Plus Capital and FMBCC Featured on CBS47 and KSEE24 for Empowering Fresno’s Contractors with BTAC Program

October 11, 2023

Small Business Owner Escapes the Debt Trap of Merchant Advance Loans

September 19, 2023

Kattia Gomez: Bridging Dreams at Access Plus Capital

September 18, 2023

Kattia’s Role at Access Plus Capital: Building Bridges to Success

A Background Rooted in Finance and Entrepreneurship

Language as a Bridge to Success

Empowering Communities through Access Plus Capital and CDFI

Parting Lessons and a Call to Action

Learn More about Access Plus Capital

Tips for Small Business Success

August 23, 2023

Create a business plan.

Market your business effectively.

Get the right financing.

Build a strong team.

Provide excellent customer service.

Never give up.

August is Black Business Month

August 23, 2023

Employee Highlight: Hasan Muhammad

August 23, 2023

PRESS RELEASE: Access Plus Capital Secures Historic Building for Economic Development

August 9, 2023

Access Plus Capital Shares its New Downtown Fresno Home

August 9, 2023

Access Plus Capital moving to historic Physicians Building, providing resources to small businesses

August 9, 2023

Employee Spotlight: Ernest Ramirez

July 18, 2023

Jay Cortez: A Father’s Journey of Resilience and Legacy

June 15, 2023

Employee Spotlight: Siah Moua: A Champion for Underserved Communities

June 15, 2023