In times of economic uncertainty, small businesses need extra support. That’s where nonprofit lenders play an essential role. They provide affordable capital and practical financial guidance to entrepreneurs who may not have access to traditional funding.
Unlike conventional banks, nonprofit lenders like LiftFund focus on expanding opportunity. They help bridge gaps by offering financing to individuals and communities that mainstream financial institutions often overlook.
At LiftFund, we believe in the power of small businesses to strengthen families, communities, and local economies. Over the years, we’ve provided $1.5 billion in capital to entrepreneurs nationwide. But our commitment extends beyond loans. We offer mentorship, educational workshops, and a supportive network to guide business owners at every stage of their journey.
We work with a wide range of entrepreneurs, and some industries have shown remarkable growth through LiftFund’s support. Here’s a closer look at three sectors where our impact is helping business owners and their communities thrive.
1. Food and Beverage: Nourishing Communities
Restaurants, coffeeshops, and bakeries are cornerstones of community life. Whether people are celebrating a milestone at a favorite restaurant or catching up with a friend over coffee, these local spots help create connection and culture.
Many independent food businesses, however, struggle to secure financing through traditional lenders. Limited credit history or early-stage revenue can make it challenging to access capital. That’s where a nonprofit lender like LiftFund becomes a vital partner.
Through flexible loan options and personalized guidance, LiftFund has supported thousands of food and beverage entrepreneurs as they opened their doors, expanded their operations, and continued serving their communities.
2. Retail: Revitalizing Main Streets
Small retail shops bring energy and identity to neighborhoods. From clothing boutiques to local markets, these businesses help define a community’s character. Yet many retail owners face cash-flow challenges, especially early on when inventory and overhead costs are high.
Support from LiftFund has helped thousands of retail businesses across the nation to stabilize, grow, and become lasting anchors in their local economies, creating jobs and strengthening community pride.
3. Service Industries: Building Everyday Success
From barbershops to cleaning services to bicycle repair, service-based businesses keep daily life running smoothly. They meet essential needs and form the backbone of many local economies.
Service entrepreneurs often experience unpredictable demand and have limited access to startup capital. With LiftFund’s assistance, these business owners have been able to invest in equipment, hire staff, and reach new customers. For decades, LiftFund has helped service businesses build lasting legacies, turning their passion and skills into sustainable success.
Every small business has the potential to make a big impact. We are proud to support entrepreneurs across all industries, helping them overcome financial challenges and build lasting legacies in their communities. If you want to explore the variety of businesses we support, check out our client marketplace! And if you’re dreaming of starting or expanding your own business, we can help you take the next step.
