Visions FCU Supports Small Business Through the Growth + Equity Fund

Small businesses are the heart of Central New York’s economy, employing more than 400,000 people in the five-county region. CenterState CEO knows it’s vital to support these small business owners and entrepreneurs to create a vibrant region where all people prosper. 

However, securing the necessary funds to start or support a small business is not always easy. CenterState CEO launched the Growth + Equity Fund to help entrepreneurs who may not be able to access capital through traditional sources. The fund employs strategies designed to “de-risk” participant businesses, including intensive vetting, business support services, and developing milestones business owners must achieve to access the fund’s capital. It also provides participants with post-financing support from CenterState’s Inclusive Growth team to maximize impact. It has supported entrepreneurs like Shawni Davis, owner of Luminary; Durin Leckie, owner of Ali Fix It; and Danielle Jackson, owner of ElleRae’s Taco.

The Growth + Equity Fund would not be possible without generous support from the community. Visions Federal Credit Union has been a vital partner in keeping the Growth + Equity Fund strong and helping Central New York entrepreneurs reach their goals. 

“As a financial institution we understand the important role small businesses and startups have to our communities,” said Tim Strong, director of Branding and Public Relations at Visions Federal Credit Union. “We also know finding financial support and capital can be a challenge. The Growth + Equity Fund is a great solution to provide growing small businesses and startups with valuable resources to take it to the next level.”

The Growth + Equity Fund is one of the initiatives supported through the CenterState CEO Foundation, which aims to attract philanthropic support for CenterState CEO programs that remove barriers to economic prosperity for people and places.
“The team at CenterState CEO has made making an impact on the small business community easy by creating of the Growth + Equity Fund,” said Strong. “By donating, you can feel confident that your dollars are supporting a program that provides a great impact and positive return.”

Contributing to the CenterState CEO Foundation will help open pathways for residents in the Central New York community to support families and build wealth. Learn more about the Growth + Equity Fund and all initiatives supported by the CenterState CEO Foundation.