Freedom Equity Inc. is an independent entity that is governed by a Board of Directors who advises staff on high-level operational and organizational concerns. The Freedom Equity Inc. Board of Directors are chosen based on their alignment and intention to support the social justice and equity mission of our CDFI, both in terms of demographic alignment and mission alignment with the purpose of serving Black-owned and underserved small businesses in Franklin County. The Board is made up of individuals with skills to help the CDFI grow, which includes experience in banking, lending, accounting, legal, marketing, fundraising, development, or governance.    

Board Of Directors

Stephanie Hightower, President/CEO, Columbus Urban League 
Sean Grant, Chief Financial Officer, The Columbus Partnership 
Danielle Sydnor, CEO, Rise Together Innovation Center 
Mark Hatcher, Managing Partner, Baker & Hostetler LLP 
Letha Pugh, Co-Founder, Bake Me Happy, Preston’s Burgers, and Café Overlook 

Our Funding Partners

Funding for loans and operations has been contributed by the City of Columbus, Franklin County Board of Commissioners, JPMorgan Chase, the Columbus Foundation, One Columbus, Huntington Bank, PNC Bank, and First Merchants Bank.