Lendistry Champions Financial Inclusion By Endorsing Equity In Infrastructure Pledge

In a significant move towards fostering inclusivity and equity within the infrastructure sector, Lendistry has become the first financial institution to sign the Equity in Infrastructure Pledge. This initiative, spearheaded by the Equity in Infrastructure Project (EIP), has traditionally seen participation from public agencies responsible for the creation and maintenance of infrastructure, including notable entities like New York’s Metropolitan Transit Authority and the Baltimore/Washington International Airport. With Lendistry's inclusion, the coalition now boasts 59 CEOs from various sectors across the country, including transit authorities, airports, ports, water districts, industry associations, and engineering and financial firms.

The White House has actively encouraged Bipartisan Infrastructure Law grantees to commit to this pledge, highlighting the national importance of this initiative. EIP's primary goal is to bridge the racial wealth gap by refining public infrastructure contracting practices. This refinement aims to generate more opportunities for prime, joint venture, and equity contracting for Historically Underutilized Businesses (HUBs). Everett K. Sands, CEO of Lendistry, emphasized the critical need for mobilization capital for small business contractors in underserved communities to transform available opportunities into tangible successes.

Phil Washington, EIP Co-Chair and CEO of Denver International Airport, along with fellow Co-Chairs John Porcari, former US Deputy Secretary of Transportation, Dorval Carter Jr., President of the Chicago Transit Authority, and Rick Jacobs, a seasoned advisor in the infrastructure sector, collectively praised the moral and ethical commitment represented by this pledge. They underscored the belief that creating fair opportunities for all contributes to a stronger America.

Lendistry stands out not only for its pioneering step into this pledge but also for its foundational ethos. As a minority-led fintech situated in a Los Angeles Opportunity Zone, Lendistry leverages technology and community partnerships to bridge systemic gaps in access to capital. It offers innovative lending products and access to grant programs nationwide. With certifications as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and Community Development Entity (CDE), along with its status as an SBA Preferred Lender through Lendistry SBLC, LLC, it is uniquely positioned to support underserved small business borrowers.

The Equity in Infrastructure Project continues to expand its influence with initiatives like the California Plan, aimed at accelerating progress within the state and thereby nationally. This plan unites infrastructure agencies in California to push forward EIP's mission on a larger scale. As more organizations like Lendistry join this cause, the path towards equitable growth and generational wealth creation becomes increasingly tangible for Historically Underutilized Businesses across America.