FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Renaissance Community Loan Fund Recognized with Two Diamond Awards at SBA Mississippi Small Business Awards
Gulfport, Miss. — Renaissance Community Loan Fund (RCLF) is proud to announce it was recognized as both a Diamond Volume Microloan Intermediary and Diamond Dollar Microloan Intermediary at the SBA Mississippi Small Business Awards held May 28 in Jackson, Mississippi.
The recognition highlights RCLF’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening communities through access to capital. During the award period, RCLF provided 29 SBA Microloans totaling $672,700, helping small businesses start, grow, and create opportunities across the communities it serves.
“We are honored to receive these awards and grateful to the SBA Mississippi District Office for its continued partnership and support,” said Kimberly LaRosa, President and CEO of Renaissance Community Loan Fund. “These recognitions represent more than loan volume and dollars invested. They represent business owners pursuing their dreams, creating jobs, and making a lasting impact in their communities.”
An SBA Microloan Intermediary is a nonprofit or quasi-governmental organization approved by the U.S. Small Business Administration to issue and manage SBA Microloans to eligible small businesses. Rather than lending directly to borrowers, the SBA provides funding to approved intermediaries, who then work directly with entrepreneurs to provide financing and support tailored to their needs.
Partnerships such as the one between the SBA and RCLF play a vital role in community development. By increasing access to capital for small businesses, especially those that may face challenges obtaining traditional financing, these programs help create jobs, strengthen local economies, and expand opportunities for families and communities to thrive.
RCLF also recognizes the dedication of its Business Lending Team, whose commitment to identifying opportunities and providing personalized guidance helps entrepreneurs navigate the path to success.
“Every microloan represents a business owner with a vision and the determination to build something meaningful,” said LaRosa. “Our team works diligently to connect entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed, and we are proud to stand beside them as partners in their journey.”
As a nonprofit community development financial institution (CDFI), RCLF remains committed to expanding economic opportunities throughout Mississippi and Alabama by providing responsible lending, business coaching, financial education, and ongoing support to the individuals and businesses it serves.
About Renaissance Community Loan Fund
Renaissance Community Loan Fund (RCLF) is a nonprofit lender that facilitates the development of communities that provide safe, quality housing and creates economic opportunities in the communities it serves. Through mortgage lending, business lending, financial education, counseling, and community development initiatives, RCLF helps individuals, families, and businesses achieve their goals while strengthening communities across Mississippi and Alabama.
