May 23, 2006
Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs
Glickman-Miller Hall, Atrium

About the Program | Participants | Download Video

Small and minority business development and income equality are two of the factors important to Northeast Ohio’s economic future. Both depend on micro lending, a proven economic development tool.

As a nonprofit lender and technical assistance provider in Cleveland, WECO Fund, Inc. has provided more than $1 million in loans to 53 businesses not able to obtain traditional financing. These businesses have created 154 jobs and contribute to the tax base and broader economy. This Forum will feature national and local experts in micro lending, showcase success stories, and discuss the potential for expansion.

Sue A. Peters, Associate Program Officer Mott Foundation's Pathways Out of Poverty Team
Wendy K. Bauman, President The Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation
Bob Shordock, Director of Lending for WECO
Deborah Rutledge, WECO Loan Client