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 loan products and services and for us to determine how we can best serve your business 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 Services team for additional 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. We were established to be an alternative lender for businesses in Central Ohio; improving the accessibility and affordability of capital.
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 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 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.