Popular influencer Nicole Cooper with BlackLifeATX is the latest entrepreneur to receive a loan from UUMC Community Microlending for her company Praying Bold Prayers. “We are gearing up to launch our second book set for Praying Bold Prayers Over Your Finances and need to stock up on inventory for the holiday markets,” said Cooper. “Thanks to UUMC’s microloan, we got the boost we needed just in time. It’s a lifesaver for small business owners like me. I’m definitely recommending them to my network.”
Janis Monger, University United Methodist Church Microlending Chair, said, “We welcome this chance to invest in talented business owners like Nicole. They are essentially our ‘co-lenders’ because every dollar they repay is used to make new loans to help more people.”
UUMC lends up to $1,500 to purchase business equipment, supplies, and services. Applicants must demonstrate a successful business track record (1+ years) or provide a detailed business plan (for start-ups). A short application and two interviews make up the streamlined application process. For convenience, loans can be repaid online in $100 increments, with the option to delay repayment by two months to put the money to work. These are a few of the many community-minded Black-owned businesses championed by UUMC Microlending:
Be Hair Free electrolysis owner Kennedy Brown used her microloan to purchase a treatment table for her Cedar Park studio. In the past year, business has tripled! Kennedy volunteers with homeless and prison populations.
Giovanni Loya with TWG Welding & Fabrication LLC is using his loan to repair a portable welding machine to expand production. His company supports Austin Heart Walk and sponsors community sports teams including Richard Lords Boxing Gym.
Talented loctician Afriyé Abston used her microloan to jumpstart her Pretty Blac Artistry business after years of experience in Memphis— and is busy growing her local PBA fan community.
Alaine Hutson is amplifying social and racial justice messages on her popular brand, Social Justice Jewelry, and is teaching others jewelry-making skills as a member of The Jeweler’s Saw cooperative. See her one-of-a-kind Universe Collection.
