FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New program expands access to affordable capital for Louisiana entrepreneurs.
BATON ROUGE, LA — 07/31/2026 — TruFund Financial Services will administer $2 million in funding to provide loans to qualified Louisiana small businesses through the Louisiana Opportunity Capital Micro Lending Program, formerly known as the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Micro Lending Program. Administered by Louisiana Economic Development (LED), the program is designed to help entrepreneurs access the financing they need to start, sustain and grow their businesses while strengthening local economies across the state.
"Through the Micro Lending Program, we're partnering with experienced lenders like TruFund to expand access to the capital Louisiana entrepreneurs need to launch, grow and strengthen their businesses," LED Chief Innovation Officer Josh Fleig said. "TruFund's proven track record of supporting small businesses and underserved entrepreneurs makes them a strong partner in helping us reach more businesses across Louisiana."
"At TruFund, we understand that access to capital changes lives, businesses, and communities," said Dr. Kim Carter Evans, Executive Vice President & COO of TruFund Financial Services. "We're proud to continue serving entrepreneurs in Louisiana through the Louisiana Opportunity Capital Micro Lending Program and help more small businesses access the financing they need to grow and create lasting economic opportunity."
The program is designed to support eligible Louisiana businesses seeking financing for:
- Working capital
- Equipment purchases
- Inventory
- Business expansion and
- Other eligible business needs
Applicants will also receive guidance from TruFund lending professionals throughout the application process.
Applications open on July 31, 2026.
Louisiana small businesses can learn more and apply by visiting:
https://www.trufund.org/louisiana-opportunity-capital-micro-lending-program/
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About TruFund Financial Services
Founded in 2005, TruFund Financial Services, Inc. is a national Community Development Financial Institution dedicated to expanding access to capital and business support services for entrepreneurs and communities historically underserved by traditional financial systems. Through innovative financing solutions and strategic partnerships, TruFund advances inclusive economic development and drives long-term community impact.
Since its inception, TruFund has deployed $716.8 million in capital to 3,978 businesses nationwide. This investment has supported 31,706 jobs, representing an average of 44 jobs created or retained for every $1 million in financing, underscoring TruFund’s role as a catalyst for sustainable economic growth.
To learn more about TruFund’s mission, impact, and financing solutions, visit www.trufund.org.
Media Contact
Allison M. Washington
Assistant Vice President | Director of Marketing & Communications
TruFund Financial Services
awashington@trufund.org
917.838.5804
