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Self-Help Credit Union

Serving Small Businesses and Nonprofits

Financing for Business and Social Entrepreneurs

Finding a source of capital is a major challenge for start-up businesses and entrepreneurs. The small businesses and entrepreneurs we serve typically don't come to us with high profit margins or valuable collateral, and that's okay. We work closely with our borrowers to make sure they have a solid business plan. If you're not quite ready today, we can offer free advice on a specific action plan to lay the groundwork for your venture.

Our small business owners and nonprofits come in all shapes and sizes, often with unconventional business models. Examples of our borrowers include cooperatives, solar and biofuel providers, green businesses, churches and social service organizations. We're proud that 40% of our business lending has been to woman-owned enterprises.

In all, we've provided more than 4,400 loans totaling $1.1 billion to businesses, nonprofits and community facilities providers, helping our borrowers maintain and create more than 42,000 jobs.

Building Faith and Community in Fresno, California

“You better get ready, because it’s coming!” said Pastor D.J. Criner, who leads Saint Rest Baptist Church in one of the poorest sections of Fresno, California. Pastor Criner was referring to future resources and community development that will come with a new church building financed by Self-Help Federal CU.

Saint Rest is a 75-year-old predominantly African American church and also a vital community resource. The church’s many programs include tutoring and literacy, a farmers’ market, a foster care ministry and ongoing food donations.

Self-Help Federal CU’s loan is financing construction of a 2,470 square foot building next to the current sanctuary. In an area that lacks green space, the building also comes with park space that will provide a safe oasis for children and community gatherings.

Saint Rest Groundbreaking
Groundbreaking on a new building at Saint Rest Baptist Church

Learn More About our Lending

Get more information on our commercial loans to businesses and non-profits.

Get more information on our small business lending (at this time we do not offer small business loans in California).