Capital Coaching Program and Old National Bank
Old National Bank grant will help CDFI Friendly South Bend continue to support entrepreneurs in underserved communities. Our Capital Coaching program pairs entrepreneurs with an expert mentor to help them access capital.
Creating Connections: A Big Day for Food-Focused Entreprenuers!
What began as a bold vision came to life in a big way at the Momentum South Bend Hub. On Wednesday, we brought together entrepreneurs, community leaders, food lovers, and lending experts under one roof for a day of learning, connection, collaboration, and celebration.
Just Economy Conference in Washington, D.C.
This week, our Executive Director Sam Centellas and Board Member Breanna Denise Allen traveled to Washington, D.C. to represent our organization at the National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) Just Economy Conference—a gathering of community leaders, financial experts, and advocates from across the country working to build an inclusive economy for all.
Federal Developments and What They Mean for the CDFI Industry
Last month, we mentioned the weather warming up — and now, so has activity in Washington, especially as it relates to our work in the Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) space.
On Friday, March 14, 2025, the CDFI Fund was placed in the administration’s crosshairs, raising concerns and questions about the future of community finance.
Capital Coaching Awarded Amazon Grant to Support Small Business Growth
Our friend and community leader Sam Centellas made the news recently again, and we’re excited to share why.
Our Capital Coaching program has been named a grant recipient of the first-ever Amazon St. Joseph County Community Fund!
CDFI Friendly SBR Joins Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce
We’re excited to share that CDFI Friendly South Bend Region was officially welcomed last Friday, February 7th, 2025, as a new member of the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce!
From Desert to Destination: Growing CDFI Investment in Indiana
Our region — like much of Indiana — is a CDFI desert.
That means businesses, community programs, and affordable housing developments here haven’t received the same access to capital that other parts of the country enjoy.
Sherman Avenue Duplexes Ribbon Cutting
Despite the chilly weather, spirits were high as community members, partners, and supporters gathered for a ribbon cutting that marked more than just the opening of a new duplex—it marked momentum.
Local entrepreneurs, Capital Coaching program honored in 2024 IEDC yearbook
CDFI Friendly is proud to be recognized in Entrepreneurship Indiana (PDF, 405MB), the 2024 Yearbook of the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC). The yearbook profiles 100 entrepreneurs and support organizations from across the state – including four from South Bend.
Building for Impact: Facility and Finance Planning Strategies for Nonprofits
Last week, CDFI Friendly South Bend joined with local nonprofit partners to host such a workshop at the Studebaker National Museum.
Made possible by a sponsorship from PNC Bank, the interactive session focused on the resources and support available to help nonprofit organizations advance their missions.
Capital Coaching program recognized by Indiana Economic Development Corp.
CDFI Friendly South Bend’s Capital Coaching program was recently recognized by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) at its inaugural Entrepreneur Support Organization (ESO) Summit.
CDFI Friendly South Bend’s executive director Sam Centellas was invited to share our Capital Coaching program with ESO representatives from across the state during a panel discussion on Access to Capital.
CDFI Friendly announces expansion into Southwest Michigan
CDFI Friendly is proud to announce an expansion of its programs into southwest Michigan. Executive Director Sam Centellas recently broke the news before a full house at the October Chamber Buzz Event hosted by the Greater Niles Chamber of Commerce.
Special Events with IFF/PNC on 12/3/24
We are excited to announce that IFF (CDFI) is coming to South Bend on Tuesday, December 3rd for two exciting programs! The registration for both events is FREE through partnership with IFF and a sponsorship from PNC Bank.
Nuevo programa de préstamos presentado durante un seminario web en español
CDFI Friendly South Bend y Everwise Credit Union organizaron una presentación virtual para explorar los recursos financieros que están disponibles para empresas latinas. La presentación, realizada en español, tuvo como objetivo cerrar las brechas que a menudo enfrentan los empresarios hispanos.
Flagstar provides $100k boost to Capital Coaching, other CFSB programs
Flagstar Bank presented CDFI Friendly South Bend with a check for $100,000 Tuesday – a community development investment that will expand the capacity and reach of our Capital Coaching and other programs.
"Flagstar Bank’s investment allows us to reach more underserved communities,” said Executive Director Sam Centellas.
CDFI Friendly South Bend closes gaps in underdeveloped South Bend neighborhooods
South Bend needs housing. So why do so many neighborhoods remain underdeveloped? One problem known as the "appraisal gap" keeps developers from getting financing.
We’re filling those gaps more than ever before. Check out the video for more.
What’s Next for Beauty Hive?
We first told you about Beauty Hive back in 2021. Now, they’re growing again!
Owner Willie Dearing says it feels like a dream, but she’s one step closer to her ultimate goal: the moment when she knows she won’t have to work for other people anymore.
Webinar: Credit Improvement Strategies for South Bend Business Owners
We’ve teamed up with Allies for Community Business to offer the Credit Builder program, which identifies eleven important startup activities and pairs participants with a Business Coach to help complete them.
In this recent webinar, A4CB shared how entrepreneurs who have completed those startup activities — such as creating a business plan or opening a business bank account — are usually positioned for greater success than those who have not.
CFSB celebrates two-fold lending increase, other 2023 progress
Thanks to all who joined us on Zoom for the release of our Annual Report. In 2023, we celebrated a two-fold increase in overall lending, developed two new lending programs, and launched a coaching program. Read more about these highlights, or see the recorded presentation here…
CFSB Introduces Capital Coaching
This morning, more than 30 local entrepreneurs and small business hopefuls attended the Steps to Business Success webinar, where CDFI Friendly South Bend introduced our newest program, Capital Coaching. Together, the webinar and the Capital Coaching program will help new business owners start their businesses strong, and maximize their chances of being approved for financing.