GRANT · HOW TO WIN THIS
Varies; recent recovery grant round totaled $50,000 across 16 recipients
Loans are rolling; grant rounds appear annual — the 2026 recovery grant round has already been awarded.
FUNDING TYPE
CDFI, Loan
CAN YOU GET THIS?
YOUR REAL ODDS
Their most recent recovery grant round awarded $50,000 split across 16 businesses — roughly $3,125 per recipient on average.
Grant rounds appear to run annually. Loans are rolling and likely more accessible than the competitive grant rounds, which are limited in total funding.
WHAT IT TAKES
Become a credit union member — 1–2 days
Identify the right product (loan, recovery grant, or pitch competition) — 1–2 hours
Apply online or make an appointment at a Syracuse branch — 1–2 weeks
WORTH KNOWING
They also run a Small Business Pitch Competition with cash prizes and scholarships, which is a lower-barrier entry point if you are not yet ready for a formal loan application.
MORE LIKE THIS
Community 1st Credit Union
Varies; loan terms depend on business type and credit profile.
Iowa-based small businesses and startups can apply for business loans through this CDFI credit union on a rolling basis.
Afena Federal Credit Union
Varies; personal and business loans from $200 up to undisclosed amounts depending on product.
Small businesses and startups in Indiana can access loans through this CDFI credit union, with no stated identity restrictions.
The Bridgeway Federal Credit Union
Varies; specific loan amounts not published.
Small businesses and startups in Alabama can apply for loans on a rolling basis through this CDFI credit union.
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