Who We Are
Who We Are
A Black-Led Loan Fund for Indiana
We are a Black-led team of business, government, and philanthropic partners creating the first Black loan fund in Indianapolis. Our primary focus is to improve the Black experience and relationship with banks.
Our approach and offerings will address root causes and disparities in the small business ecosystem but create products and services based on real needs expressed by the Black community.
We Meet Business Where They Are
Our Vision is...
To create an inclusive economy where Black businesses and other business owners of color form, develop, compete, and thrive.
Our Mission is...
To leverage social, financial, and human capital resources with a focus on Black and other businesses of color in pursuit of racial equity in the small business ecosystem.
Value-based/CARE Priorities
We Meet Business with the...
Capital They Need
Assistance They Need
Relationships They Expect
Experiences That Make It Easier To Do Business
Meet the Board
Robert Shegog
Chairman
President, Indianapolis Recorder
Tony Mason
Vice-Chairman
President and CEO, Indianapolis Urban League
E. Lois Thomas
Treasurer
Owner, Thomas and Associates
Alice Watson
Secretary
President and CEO, Indiana Black Expo
Jeff Bennett
Chief Innovation Officer, Central Indiana Community Foundation
Willis Bright
Chairman, African American Coalition of Indianapolis
Dr. Demetrius Glover
President and CEO, Mid-States Minority Supplier Development Council
David Fredericks
Director, Office of Minority & Women Business Development, City of Indianapolis
Nick Bontregar
Banker
What We Do
Our primary focus is to improve the Black experience and relationship with banks and create an inclusive economy where Black 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 a certified CDFI with the U.S. Department of Treasury – a network of community-based financial institutions that have a common goal of filling financing gaps in underserved areas. This translates into real change for the communities and people who need it most.
