The Cooperative Lender

Empowering Communities, One Loan at a Time

Empowerment starts when communities teach what banks won’t.

Challenges We Face, Solutions We Build

Real Issues. Real Fixes.

The Problem

Unfair lending practices.
Small-business lending faces a serious diversity issue.
Everyone is aware of the bank’s strict underwriting guidelines.
80% of loan applications are denied.
Predatory lending.

The Solution

We tackle these issues with the right tools, education, and training.
Young professionals from our community help bridge the distrust toward banks.
We teach financial literacy and offer lending solutions
Empowered with knowledge, we create jobs and businesses in our community.

What is The Cooperative Lender?

This is a group of individuals united to meet their shared social, economic, cultural, and community needs—especially among the disadvantaged—through a jointly owned and democratically controlled enterprise.

Join a cooperative that puts people over profit.

Together, we grow stronger.

Want to learn more about being a member?

Book an appointment

Be More Than a Member — Be a Co-Owner

Join a model where you’re not just a customer, but a catalyst of change.

Co-op Empowerment

Shared Ownership, Shared Power

At The Cooperative Lender, every member holds a voice. With our “One Member – One Share – One Vote” model, we ensure equal say, equal stake, and a seat at the table for everyone. Whether you're a business owner, an employee, or a community advocate, your voice matters here.

Community Wealth Building

Invest Together. Grow Together.

We practice group economics and self-funding—so your $1,000 share is more than a contribution; it’s an investment in a shared future. With dividends paid to members and a 90% success rate, every dollar works harder for you and your community.

Sustainable Impact

Jobs. Dividends. Generational Value.

With 1,000 members contributing $1,000 each, we build a $1 million community-owned fund that creates and retains local jobs, circulates wealth, and secures long-term impact—while delivering timeless value to all members.

Because Ownership Changes Everything...

Transforming Communities Through Empowered Lending

At The Cooperative Lender, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, we are proud to be the first and only commercial lender that is owned by the communities we serve. Our mission is simple yet profound: to empower individuals and small businesses by offering fair, inclusive, and cooperative financial solutions. Our services ...

Explore Our Tailored Solutions: Supporting Your Financial Goals

We offer more than just loans—we offer financial empowerment. Our cooperative is built to serve the economic, social, and cultural needs of our members through our commercial lending and Loan Broker Training Academy. As a cooperative, we prioritize transparency and trust, making sure every member and borrower.

✽ Why are we here?

Mission. Vision. Impact.

Our Purpose

We envision a world where Black businesses flourish, serving as the cornerstone of vibrant, resilient communities. These businesses drive innovation, create wealth, and foster opportunities that uplift individuals and families, building a legacy of prosperity and equity for future generations.

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower Black-owned businesses and build a resilient community committed to solving our own challenges. Together, we create pathways for financial growth, collective strength, and shared prosperity—recognizing that no one is coming to save us but us. All are welcome in allyship as we forge a future rooted in self-determination and unity.

Our Vision

Our vision is to close the racial wealth gap by leveraging the power of the cooperative model to address systemic barriers, reduce poverty, and foster innovation, job creation, and sustainable wealth-building within the Black community. By working together, we maximize shared resources, amplify collective strength, and ensure equitable opportunities for lasting economic empowerment.

Our 6 Foundational Pillars

Economic Empowerment Through Ownership

Closing the racial wealth gap by ensuring profits are shared with the community, which collectively owns and benefits from the cooperative.

Community-Driven Solutions

Harnessing the power of the cooperative model to solve challenges from within, fostering resilience and self-reliance through shared decision-making.

Wealth-Building and Shared Prosperity

Creating opportunities for sustainable financial growth where members of the cooperative directly share in the profits and success of the enterprise.

Education and Expertise

Teaching, educating, and training members to build legacy wealth, guided by the insights of current and former bankers who bring invaluable expertise to empower the community.

Innovation and Job Creation

Driving entrepreneurship, supporting Black-owned businesses, and creating jobs that uplift and strengthen the economic fabric of our community.

Inclusive Allyship in Action

Welcoming and encouraging allies to join in partnership, strengthening the collective impact while staying rooted in the principles of community ownership and equity.

Join the Movement.

Join us in empowering Black businesses and building a thriving, equitable future. Whether you're an entrepreneur, supporter, or ally, your involvement helps fuel innovation, create jobs, and strengthen communities through cooperative economics. Together, we can turn shared prosperity into lasting change.

Build With Us

Discover Insights That Empower: Read Our Blog

Stay informed and inspired with expert advice, success stories, and financial tips that can help you thrive. Our blog is your go-to resource for building a stronger financial future. Dive in today!

The Cooperative Lend​er