TYLER, Texas - An East Texas community finance organization has received $60,000 in grant funding to expand small-business lending and financial education programs for entrepreneurs across the region.
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas and member institutions Austin Bank and Woodforest National Bank awarded the funding to Greater Texas Capital Community Finance, which operates as Lending Avenue.
The grant will support Lending Avenue's small-dollar loan programs, technical assistance and financial education for East Texas business owners.
FHLB Dallas announced the award during an event in Irving marking the 30th anniversary of its Partnership Grant Program.
"This grant helps us scale our lending and education programs so more small business owners can launch, grow and sustain their businesses," Lending Avenue Director of Marketing and Development Kaitlyn Shultz said.
The Partnership Grant Program provides matching funds to community organizations involved in affordable housing and economic development. FHLB Dallas can provide up to a 5-to-1 match of participating member institutions' contributions, with a maximum of $25,000 per member.
The $60,000 awarded to Lending Avenue is part of approximately $1.8 million in Partnership Grant Program funding awarded by FHLB Dallas and its members in 2026 across Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico and Texas.
Daniel Galindo, senior vice president and director of Community Development and Strategic Initiatives at Woodforest National Bank, said the funding will allow Lending Avenue to provide additional access to capital and business support services.
Austin Bank Chairman Jeff Austin III, who also serves on the FHLB Dallas Board of Directors, said the partnership extends the bank's community investment efforts to entrepreneurs in East Texas.
Greg Hettrick, senior vice president and director of Community Investment at FHLB Dallas, said providing entrepreneurs with more financing options can help them start and expand businesses.
"When entrepreneurs have not just access but options, they're empowered to start and grow their businesses," Hettrick said.
