United States
About the ACCION U.S. Network
The ACCION U.S. Network is the largest non-profit microfinance network in the United States, with over fourteen field offices and an internet lending team accessible throughout the country providing loans from $200-$150,000 to small businesses. Through their small business lending and financial education programs, the ACCION members have fostered job creation, increases in family income, and lasting economic vibrancy for small business owners and their communities nationwide. Members of the ACCION U.S. Network include ACCION Chicago; ACCION New Mexico, Arizona & Colorado; ACCION San Diego; ACCION Texas-Louisiana and ACCION USA.
Need for microfinance in the U.S.
Businesses with five or fewer employees make up 85% of all businesses in the United States. Yet, an estimated 10 million report insufficient access to the loans they need to start or grow. With more than 80% of all US businesses in this category of small and microenterprise, this is a troubling trend. At a time when our economy needs small businesses to generate new jobs, microentrepreneurs need access to financial services that enable them to reach their full potential.
Since 1991, the members of the ACCION U.S. Network have provided loans and training to hardworking small business owners to boost their family’s income, create employment, and strengthen their communities. The work of the network has taken on increased importance during the ongoing U.S. credit crunch, when more entrepreneurs than ever need affordable loan sizes and interest rates or alternative sources of credit. To date, the ACCION U.S. Network has provided over $305 million* in loans averaging approximately $7,000, making it the largest microfinance network in the country.
Impact
ACCION has changed small business owners’ perceptions of what a lending relationship can be. Our clients get more than just a loan or savings account from ACCION, they often gain a mentor or partner. We establish long-term relationships with every client, working side-by-side each client to connect them with experts and to communities of like-minded business owners. Clients feel they know more about their financial options, and feel more prepared to plan the next growth phase for their businesses. Learn more about our impact in the U.S. >
Meet Clients from the U.S.
Click here to read stories of the struggles and successes of ACCION's clients in the U.S and how microfinance is helping to improve businesses and lives.
Contact Us
To learn more about ACCION’s work in the U.S., or to inquire about applying for a small business loan from $200-$150,000** please visit the network’s member websites:
**Please note that loan amounts and interest rates vary by region and member office.
ACCION U.S. Network Central Office: 68 Jay St, South Suite 15, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Staff:
- Gina Harman, President and CEO: (347) 470-4560
- Shaolee Sen, Vice President of Strategy & Development: (347) 709-5872
- Laura Kozien, Director of Marketing & Communications: (347)560-9727
- Libby Parsons, Development & Communications Associate: (347) 709-5663
*As of June 2011
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