The SmallBizChat with Melinda Emerson

Melinda Emerson

A series focused on small business advice and strategies, by Melinda Emerson, known as "SmallBizLady", discussing various aspects of entrepreneurship and small business management. Get insights from experts about topics relevant to small business owners.

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The SmallBizChat with Melinda Emerson

Episodes (335)

Wednesday What Do Black Business Owners Need to Know About CDFIs as a Funding Option with Amber Banks
Wed Feb 18th Hit It & Quit It with Joe Mindak and Michelle Walker-Davis
Wed Feb 11th How to Monetize Connections with Joe Mindak

The SmallBizChat with Melinda Emerson

Feb 25, 2026
38½ minutes
34 MB

In this episode, Melinda Emerson is joined by Amber Banks to explore the critical role of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in business financing. They delve into understanding CDFIs, tackling credit score issues, and the challenges of borrowing. Amber discusses how CDFIs advocate for small businesses and assist with urgent cash flow needs. The conversation touches on the quality of CDFI services, their impact, and the prevalence of Black-led CDFIs. They examine CDFI funding sources, technical assistance, and preparation for approaching a CDFI. The episode also addresses combating predatory lending and offers insights into navigating lending for business acquisitions and...

The SmallBizChat with Melinda Emerson

What Do Black Business Owners Need to Know About CDFIs as a Funding Option with Amber Banks

Melinda Emerson

00:00 -37:30