Vermont Community Loan Fund

Overview

The Vermont Community Loan Fund (VCLF) is a mission-driven, community-focused alternative lender dedicated to strengthening Vermont communities by offering impact investments to individuals and organizations. VCLF provides loans and other resources to local businesses, community organizations, nonprofits, early childhood education programs, and developers of affordable housing who may not qualify for traditional financing. By developing and promoting innovative capital-based solutions, VCLF addresses issues of poverty, justice, and opportunity, aiming to create a just and thriving Vermont. VCLF's investment strategy focuses on sectors such as food, farms, forests, agritourism, affordable housing, early childhood education, outdoor recreation, and support for BIPOC business owners. The organization offers various loan products tailored to these sectors, including the Food, Farms & Forests Fund and the Justice Forward Fund, which specifically serves traditionally and systemically excluded Vermonters. VCLF's flexible financing and business development services are designed to meet the unique needs of each borrower, fostering economic development and community well-being. Since its inception in 1987, VCLF has loaned over $152 million, creating or preserving jobs for thousands of Vermonters, building or rehabilitating affordable homes, and supporting quality care for children and families. The organization has a strong track record of repaying investors, with a history of never failing to do so. VCLF's investment philosophy emphasizes social impact alongside financial returns, allowing investors to align their capital with their values and contribute to the betterment of Vermont communities.

Investment Focus

• Nonprofit and for-profit organizations providing vital community services
• Projects benefiting Vermonters with low and moderate incomes
• Initiatives unable to obtain credit at reasonable rates and terms from traditional lenders