Fifth Third Launches Small Business Catalyst Fund: A Boost for Underserved Entrepreneurs

Fifth Third Bank, in collaboration with the Community Reinvestment Fund, USA (CRF), has launched the Small Business Catalyst Fund, a $7.85 million initiative aimed at empowering small businesses across its 11-state footprint. This innovative fund seeks to bridge the capital access gap for small business owners, particularly those in underserved communities, by offering a diverse range of funding options and leveraging local expertise.

The fund's unique approach combines grants, microloans, and small business loans, ranging from $5,000 to $750,000, catering to various stages of business maturity. This diversified lending model addresses the unique financing needs of entrepreneurs, enabling them to access the capital required for growth and expansion. By offering tailored support, the fund fosters entrepreneurship within underserved communities and promotes equitable access to resources for sustainable growth.


The partnership with CRF and Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) enhances the fund's impact by leveraging local expertise and resources. CDFIs, mission-driven community lenders, often work with entrepreneurs facing capital access barriers. By collaborating with ECDI and Ascendus, the fund can provide tailored support to underserved communities, fostering long-lasting community transformation. This approach aligns with Fifth Third's commitment to community development, having previously invested over $13.5 million in small business lending through its neighborhood program since 2021.


The Small Business Catalyst Fund is expected to have a significant positive impact on job creation, community vibrancy, and overall economic stability in Fifth Third's 11-state footprint. By addressing the capital access gap for small business owners, the fund fosters job creation and promotes community vibrancy. Additionally, the fund's focus on underserved entrepreneurs ensures that the benefits of economic growth are shared equitably across diverse communities.

In conclusion, Fifth Third's launch of the Small Business Catalyst Fund is a strategic move that aligns with the bank's commitment to community development and racial equity. By focusing on underserved communities and offering a diverse range of funding options, the fund addresses the unique financing needs of entrepreneurs and fosters sustainable growth. This initiative is a testament to Fifth Third's dedication to supporting small businesses and promoting economic stability in its 11-state footprint.