Borrowing from Freedom Equity
Freedom Equity was established to connect borrowers like you with accessible, affordable capital.
Most prospective borrowers start their relationship with us by attending an Info Session. The sessions are an opportunity for you to learn about our loans and services and for us to determine how we can best serve your business and goals.
You’ll also be invited to create an account in our lender portal. This account gives you the option to move forward with a business loan application or get connected with our Business Development team to provide additional business support and / or help position you to apply for a loan.
Loans
Freedom Equity Inc. is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), incorporated in 2021, as an alternative lender for Black-owned businesses in Central Ohio and to improve the accessibility and affordability of capital to support Black owned businesses in Central Ohio.
While we work to minimize barriers, there are minimum requirements borrowers must meet and documents we’ll request as we put together your loan application.
Products
Freedom Equity Micro Loans:
Financing to increase cash flow and position business for new business opportunities and/or expansion, and business debt consolidation. Funding available up to $50,000 for five years at 5% interest * This product is 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 already established Black women-owned businesses by creating a network of support necessary to scale their businesses, secure contracts, and grow their capital access. Freedom Equity is the proud administrator of the Accelerate Her Loan program, which is funded by JPMorgan Chase Foundation to support Accelerate Her participan
Community Development Financial Institution Loan Participation Program (CDFI LPP):
Freedom Equity is a proud administrator of the CDFI LPP for the Ohio Department of Development. Funds can be used for: Working capital for equipment, inventory, payroll, land or building purchases, construction, renovation, marketing, market research, franchising, technology, debt consolidation,* and more. Interested in the CDFI LPP program? Contact loans@freedomequity.org.
Process
Freedom Equity Application Process:
1. Attend a virtual Info Session to learn more about our process.
2. Receive an invitation to participate in 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.