ACE is a Georgia based nonprofit lender that provides capital, coaching, and connections to underserved people and places, with a focus on diverse entrepreneurs. ACE serves those who are typically not financed fully by traditional lenders by helping them create and grow sustainable businesses that generate jobs in their communities. In addition to offering both small business and commercial loans, they run the Women’s Business Center (WBC) for metro Atlanta, as well as a location on Savannah State University’s campus. Through the WBCs, and the Business Advisory Service program, ACE clients have special access to an online business training program called Initiate, as well as other educational and technical business support services.
Lending Focus
ACE primarily serves small to mid-size companies led by persons of color, women and low to moderate income individuals. ACE’s vision is to decrease the gender and racial wealth gaps, particularly for African American and Latinx communities.Loans At A Glance
Loan Amounts Provided
$15,000 to $1,000,000
Eligibility Criteria
- Requires two years in business
- Personal guarantees of key owners required
- Minimum credit score: 600
Fees
- $50 loan application fee
- 1.25-2% origination fee
Loan Types
- Small business and real estate term loans up to 72 months, depending on the loan amount
Client Success Story
“I wish I had found ACE sooner,” Amanda Thompson Wright, owner of CrossFit Lanier says. “It was refreshing to work with a team who respected me as a person and business owner and who I could count on.”