Community Interest
Community First Fund is investing in Lancaster
Community First Fund works with entrepreneurs who share their vision for vibrant communities.
Since 1992, Community First Fund family of companies has been leading the way with bold action by working with entrepreneurs, small business owners, nonprofits, and organizations who share their vision to build vibrant communities in Lancaster County and the surrounding region.
“Our flexibility and creativity make us a great partner for entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to start or grow their business,” Deb Joyce, Senior Community Lender, said. “We offer personalized solutions for each individual client to meet their lending needs. We are truly invested in this community and are ready to provide support, counseling, and capital.”
Working with entrepreneurs and small business owners like Dominga Peralta, owner of Delicias Gourmet, Community First Fund aims to create opportunities for People of Color, women, and immigrants by providing access to essential capital and building the skills required to start and grow a small business.
“As Latinos, we come from our countries, and we sacrifice a lot,” shared Dominga. “We bring a lot of dreams, and sometimes those dreams get crushed. When I knocked on Community First’s door, they listened to me and made me feel like an entrepreneur since day one—like my business was already big, and it hadn’t even started. From that day until now, they’ve been there with me.”
Community First Fund and Community First Fund Credit Union are eager to work with and support entrepreneurs like Dominga who share a vision for creating pathways to vibrant and sustainable communities.
Community First Fund By the Numbers
86%
of loans benefit low-income people and communities
64%
of business loans support People of Color
42%
of loans are awarded to women
236,714
hours of business coaching and technical assistance each year
Community First Fund is proud to work with and support entrepreneurs who own local restaurants with international flavors in Lancaster City.
Issei
Owners | Andre and Donna Pham
Ramen & Asian-fusion Cuisine
38 West Orange Street
isseinoodle.com
La Cocina
Owners | Maria and Andy Taveras
Dominican Cuisine
111 East King Street lacocinarestaurantlancaster.net
Want to discover more local? Follow Fig on Instagram and Facebook for inspiration.
