Trusted Connections
Freedom Equity is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution serving Central Ohio entrepreneurs and small businesses.
We understand that the right financial solution is not always the same for every business. Our team works to understand where you are, what you're trying to accomplish, and what may be standing in the way.
Our goal is simple: help you find the right next step for your business.
Responsible Capital
We understand that the right financial solution is not always the same for every business. Our team works to understand where you are, what you're trying to accomplish, and what may be standing in the way.
That may mean financing from Freedom Equity. It may mean strengthening your readiness first. It may mean addressing expensive debt, preparing for a contract, or connecting you with another capital provider better suited to your need.
Practical Support
Affordable and thoughtfully structured financing designed to support the long-term health of your business, not simply providing money today.
Hands-on guidance that helps business owners strengthen financial management, prepare for financing, address gaps, and make better business decisions.
Loans
Our loan products and services are built for businesses that have had to work harder to access capital.
Freedom Equity primarily serves historically under-resourced business owners and small businesses whose access to affordable, appropriately structured financing has been constrained.
That can include businesses that:
operate in communities that have experienced economic underinvestment;
have limited relationships with conventional lenders;
need financing amounts or structures that traditional institutions may not provide;
have encountered financing that is too expensive or poorly matched to the business;
are carrying high-cost or frequent-payment business debt; or
meet established economic-disadvantage criteria.
A previous loan denial is not required. Financing is subject to program eligibility, underwriting, availability of funds, and applicable funding-source requirements.
Loan Products
Freedom Equity Micro Loans: Financing to increase cash flow and position businesses for new opportunities, expansion, and/or business debt consolidation. Funding available up to $50,000 for five years at 5% interest * Freedom Equity Micro Loans are for new and existing businesses; business owner must have a minimum credit score of 550.* Collateral required on a case-by-case basis.
Accelerate Her Micro Loans: Accelerate Her is a training program hosted by the Columbus Urban League that is designed to accelerate the growth of established Black women-owned businesses by creating a network of support necessary to scale their businesses, secure contracts, and improve their access to capital. Freedom Equity is the administrator of the Accelerate Her Loan program, which is funded by the JPMorgan Chase Foundation to support Accelerate Her participants.
Community Development Financial Institution Loan Participation Program (CDFI LPP): Freedom Equity is an administrator of the CDFI LPP for the Ohio Department of Development. Funds can be used for: equipment, inventory, payroll, real estate purchases, construction, renovation, marketing, market research, franchising, technology, debt consolidation,* and more. Interested in the CDFI LPP program? Contact questions@freedomequity.org.
Financial Products from Our Partners:
Lendistry is a tech-enabled small business lender helping undercapitalized entrepreneurs access financing quickly and efficiently. Through Freedom Equity’s partnership with Lendistry, eligible businesses can access financing of $25,000 or more.
Qualifications include: 650+ credit score | More than two years in business
Learn more and apply here:: https://rb.gy/tc23rk
Lend Track: Access real offers from a nationwide network of lenders, with flexible terms and support from application through funding. Benefits include:
No credit impact to compare options | Fast approvals | No obligation | Dedicated funding specialist
Whether you need capital for payroll, equipment, expansion, or cash flow, you can compare options and find financing that fits your business. Learn more and apply here: https://lendistry.com/partner/freedom-equity/
ROK Financial: Freedom Equity has partnered with ROK Financial to offer lines of credit, term loans, equipment financing, and more. Through ROK’s network of 75+ lenders, eligible businesses can compare financing options and terms. Minimum qualifications include:
6+ months in business | Business checking account | No minimum FICO on certain products
Ready to explore your options? Apply or schedule a consultation here: https://ow.ly/brws50ZHgti
Process
Freedom Equity Application Process:
1. Attend an Info Session to learn about our process.
2. Receive an invitation to work with our Business Development and/or apply for a loan.
3. Selected applicants work with our Lending Team to complete an application.
4. Completed applications are presented for approval.
5. Loan closing and disbursement of funds can occur within 3 to 5 business days of loan approval.