Who We Are
Building community, one entrepreneur at a time
As a Black-led loan fund, Equity1821 helps businesses gain access to capital by providing information and capital together to improve business outcomes.
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Demystifying Underwriting Program
Learn the underwriting process for business lending with our Demystifying Underwriting course. The course begins March 2025 and is available throughout the spring and summer.
EQUITY 1821
At A Glance
In 1821, David Mallory established the first Black-owned business in Indianapolis. Despite challenges businesses face, they've been enhancing the community for over 200 years.
We stand on the shoulders of those who set a strong foundation.
We Stand On The Shoulders Of Those Who Set The Foundation For Us.
Midwest National
Real Data
Our approach and offerings will address root causes and disparities in the small business ecosystem.
Equity Pays Black-led CDFI
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What We Do
We meet businesses where they are.
Our primary focus is to improve the experience for business owners and their relationship with banks so businesses form, develop, compete and thrive.
Black-led
Why Equity1821?
In 1821, David Mallory established the first Black-owned business in Indianapolis. Despite the challenges Black businesses face, theyhave been in the city enhancing the larger community for 200 years.
CDFI
A trusted and credible leader.
Equity1821 is an emerging CDFI Associate Member through the African American Alliance of CDFI CEOs. – a network of community-based financial institutions that have a common goal of filling financing gaps. This translates into real change for communities.
