Accion creates economic development at a level that other financial institutions cannot. By providing loans up to $100,000 to qualified borrowers, we fill a gap in the credit market that large financial institutions don’t serve. Without Accion, many of the region’s budding entrepreneurs and promising start-ups would be stranded without access to credit, and the communities around them would not reap the benefit of jobs and capital they produce.

Accion Chicago is a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), SBA microlending intermediary, and SBA Community Advantage lender. We have compiled a remarkable track record of success with 20 years of service as a microlender in the Chicago area. Accion is a nonprofit, but we apply rigorous business principles and instill a culture of entrepreneurship in our customers.

Accion Chicago is an independent member of the Accion U.S. Network. The Accion U.S. Network is the largest nonprofit microfinance network in the United States, with over fourteen field offices and an internet lending team accessible throughout the country providing loans from $200-$300,000 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.