Community Ventures is proud to announce that it has once again been recognized as Kentucky’s Top SBA Microlender, marking the 25th year in a row the organization has received this distinction from the SBA Kentucky District Office.
In Fiscal Year 2025, Community Ventures provided 120 SBA microloans totaling $773,400, continuing a decades-long commitment to expanding access to capital for entrepreneurs across the Commonwealth. This recognition comes during a historic year for SBA lending in Kentucky, with total statewide loan volume surpassing $312 million, the highest level in at least 15 years.
For more than two decades, Community Ventures has served as a consistent, trusted lending partner for small businesses, particularly those who benefit most from relationship-driven, community-based financing. We are honored to be named the top microlender year after year as we continue to dedicate our reliability and expertise in Kentucky’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“This recognition reinforces what we see every day,” said Shirie Hawkins, President of Lending. “Entrepreneurs in Kentucky are building real, durable businesses when they have access to the right capital and the right guidance. Our role is to make that access possible, year after year.”
A Trusted Entry Point for SBA Lending
SBA microloans often serve as the first formal financing step for small businesses: helping entrepreneurs launch, stabilize, hire, purchase equipment, or prepare for larger SBA loan programs in the future. Community Ventures’ sustained leadership in this category underscores its role as a foundational lender for Kentucky’s small-business economy.
Entrepreneurs, developers, and business owners with lending needs are encouraged to connect directly with Lew Whalen, who can help assess financing options and guide next steps.
Contact:
Lew Whalen
859-685-2166
lwhalen@cvky.org
Twenty-five consecutive years. One mission: expanding opportunity through access to capital.