Funds Will Expand Lending and Financial Education to East Texas Entrepreneurs
In a notable boost to East Texas entrepreneurs, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas (FHLB Dallas), Austin Bank and Woodforest National Bank® have awarded $54,000 in Partnership Grant Program (PGP) funding to Greater Texas Community Capital Finance (GTCCF), doing business as Lending Avenue®. This funding, presented during a check ceremony today, will empower underserved entrepreneurs by supporting expanded access to affordable capital and financial education.
“We are incredibly grateful for this partnership between FHLB Dallas, Austin Bank and Woodforest National Bank and their continued commitment to our mission,” said Lending Avenue’s Director of Marketing and Development, Kaitlyn Shultz. “This support allows us to expand our reach throughout East Texas and beyond to provide the tools and capital needed to help underserved small business owners and their businesses thrive.”
The FHLB Dallas PGP offers up to a 5:1 match of member contributions—up to $25,000 per FHLB Dallas member—to support community-based organizations involved in affordable housing or economic development activities that complement other FHLB Dallas community investment programs. The program is funded on an annual basis, and funds are distributed through participating FHLB Dallas members like Woodforest National Bank and Austin Bank.
“This grant is a collaborative investment in East Texas, fueling economic growth and strengthening the capacity of Lending Avenue to support local small businesses,” said Daniel Galindo, senior vice president, director of Community Development and Strategic Initiatives, Woodforest National Bank.
Jeff Austin III, Chairman of the Board, emphasized Austin Bank’s commitment to community investment.
“Austin Bank is dedicated to supporting our communities. We have a long-standing practice of funding businesses in Texas, and partnerships like this with FHLB Dallas and Lending Avenue align with our values and extend our legacy of service,” said Mr. Austin.
Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas, recognized how focused investments in community-based organizations like Lending Avenue can generate ripple effects that benefit entire regions.
“When we support organizations that are deeply rooted in their communities, the impact goes far beyond a single grant. It creates a multiplier effect that is vital to the long-term economic resilience of the region,” Mr. Hettrick said.
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