At FM Civic, we love recognizing businesses, government agencies and nonprofits that are not only addressing social issues but are empowering others to have a positive #communityimpact in the Pacific Northwest.
That’s the purpose of our UN/SUNG Awards. Because who doesn’t like being recognized for doing good?
Today, we’re excited to introduce you to our first UN/SUNG Award recipient for 2023: Craft3!
Craft3 is a nonprofit, non-bank lender, also known as a community development financial institution (CDFI). It uses capital to address the racial wealth gap and help individuals and organizations build resilience.
This looks like providing loans and advice where they’re needed most, and especially to individuals and organizations that have been denied access to traditional financing.
Craft3 recognizes the need to tackle systemic racism, the climate crisis, and the challenges that rural and Tribal economies face. They serve all of Oregon and Washington, providing loans to entrepreneurs of color—like Earl of Earls Cuts & Styles—and to homeowners trying to invest in their property—like Randal, a first-time homeowner who built an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) that’s leased to tenants who earn no more than 80% of area median income.
If you didn’t know what impact investing was, now you do. By investing in businesses, individuals, and communities unable to access traditional bank financing, Craft3 is using capital as a tool for social good.
In their own words, “We invest in people and communities, and work towards a future of shared prosperity.”
If you or someone you know needs a loan to launch a startup, expand a business or nonprofit, or invest in owned property, check out Craft3.
Thank you, Craft3, for investing in communities and people across the Pacific Northwest.
You can check out our first UN/SUNG Award winner here.