The nonprofit lender marks 30 years of funding small business dreams with a community event and the launch of a new initiative for future impact.
“For 30 years, DreamSpring has worked to eliminate systemic wealth inequities and create ripples of generational change,” says Anne Haines. “In those three decades, we have witnessed the seismic impact of providing access to capital and support to small business owners, who are the heart and soul of our communities. To invest in them is to invest in all of our futures.”
DreamSpring works to fill a critical gap in the banking system by providing micro-loans to entrepreneurs, credit-building loan products and coaching, and education and support to small businesses. In 2023, 93% of its loans went to small business owners from underserved and under-represented populations including people of color, women, low- to moderate-income earners, people with disabilities, and startups — results that place DreamSpring among the most impactful micro-finance organizations in the community development finance industry.
To drive the next chapter in economic equity and inclusion, DreamSpring is excited to announce the launch of its flagship DreamUp Fund. This strategic initiative is designed to scale lending to $1 billion, a new benchmark for DreamSpring that furthers its mission to create generational change for underserved small business owners. Donors can join the DreamUp Fund at a number of investment levels that offer unique recognition opportunities and benefits, along with making a catalytic difference in the lives of entrepreneurs who fall outside of the financial mainstream.
"Our commitment to supporting small business owners is more important than ever, and the DreamUp Fund has the power to be transformational in advancing our mission," says Anne Haines. "I invite you to join us in providing capital, education, and encouragement to this next generation of entrepreneurs in need. Together, we can DreamUp a world of opportunity for all."
DreamSpring is inviting community members, partners, and small business owners to celebrate alongside the organization at its 30th Anniversary Celebration Luncheon. Taking place on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, at Downtown Albuquerque’s Clyde Hotel, the event will be a shared celebration of collective impact and a recognition of the transformational influence of small businesses in New Mexico and across the country.
DreamSpring gratefully acknowledges the host committee of community leaders and successful entrepreneurs who have mobilized to raise awareness and amplify community engagement around the event:
- Kamal Ali – Community Leader
- Jason Burns – Riccobene Masonry Company
- Ernie C’ de Baca – Hispano Chamber of Commerce
- Heather Cameron – Community Leader and Information Industry Executive
- Laurie Donovan – Community Leader
- Del Esparza – Esparza Digital + Advertising
- Beverlie Frazier – Nexstar Media Group
- Tom Garrity and Jenna Simon – The Garrity Group Public Relations
- Arian Gonzales – Cervantes Food Products
- Debbie Johnson – Albuquerque Publishing Company
- Gabriela Marques – Minority Business Development Agency Business Center New Mexico
- Roxanna Meyers – Century Sign Builders
- Yashoda Naidoo – Annapurna's World Vegetarian Café
To purchase 30th Anniversary Celebration tickets or learn about event sponsorship, please visit go.DreamSpring.org/30years.
To contribute to generational small business impact through the DreamUp Fund, visit go.dreamspring.org/dreamup-fund.
To learn more about DreamSpring, access free entrepreneurial resources, or apply for a small business loan, visit DreamSpring.org.