About
Accion Opportunity Fund is a nonprofit, mission-driven small business lender that pairs affordable financing with free advising and education for entrepreneurs who are often shut out of mainstream credit. Formed in 2020 when Accion U.S. Network and Opportunity Fund joined forces, the organization describes itself as a leading national mission-driven small business lender, drawing on more than 30 years of service to small business owners.
Mission
Accion Opportunity Fund states its mission as advancing "economic mobility for underserved small business owners and communities through affordable financial services, knowledge resources, networks and policy."
What they do
- Small business lending, including small business term loans, SBA 7(a) loans, equipment leasing, and truck and food truck financing
- Free one-on-one business advising on topics such as financial planning and marketing
- Personalized learning and a Business Resource Center with courses tailored to a business's industry and stage
- A New Markets Tax Credit program that invests in community infrastructure
- Policy advocacy on behalf of small business owners
History
In 2020, Accion U.S. Network and Opportunity Fund joined forces to form Accion Opportunity Fund. The organization says it has a track record of more than three decades of supporting small business owners, describing "30+ years of service."
Scale and impact
Figures published on the organization's website:
- 4.5 million+ clients served across its lending and learning programs
- $1 billion+ invested in small businesses
- 90% of its clients come from underserved communities
Structure and financials
Accion Opportunity Fund operates through several affiliated entities. According to its website, business loans are made through Accion Opportunity Fund Community Development, and educational services are operated by the Learn with AOF Foundation; the site publishes separate audited financial statements and IRS Forms 990 for Accion Opportunity Fund, Inc. and Accion Opportunity Fund Community Development, covering fiscal years 2018 through 2025.
Per ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer, the IRS Form 990 filed under EIN 45-4127501 (Accion Opportunity Fund Inc, San Jose, CA) reported total revenue of $207,850, total expenses of $1,376,681, and net assets of $3,299,201 for the fiscal year ending June 2025. These figures reflect that single entity's filing and do not capture the lending activity conducted through its affiliates.
Governance
Luz Urrutia serves as Chief Executive Officer of Accion Opportunity Fund. The organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and a participant in the SBA Preferred Lender Program, according to its website.
