Business Details
44 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Empowering Communities Through Housing and Business Development
Community Ventures has been dedicated to strengthening communities across Kentucky since 1982. Our mission focuses on empowering individuals through homeownership opportunities, business development, and comprehensive community revitalization initiatives. As the largest Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in Kentucky and a certified U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lender, we provide critical financial resources and educational programs to underserved populations. Over four decades, we've facilitated over $127 million in loans for entrepreneurs and homebuyers while supporting 10,703 business startups or expansions. Our HUD-certified housing counseling services have educated more than 1 million prospective homeowners.Through innovative ventures like Chef Space and Mustard Seed Hill, we create sustainable solutions for community growth. Our team of experienced professionals delivers tailored support through personalized counseling, technical assistance, and strategic partnerships. We maintain rigorous financial accountability with transparent operations and strict compliance standards. Our track record demonstrates consistent impact, having created or retained 17,859 jobs through our programs. We remain committed to advancing economic opportunity without discrimination, ensuring equal access to our services for all Kentuckians.
Services
Business Loans
Homeownership Support
Disaster Relief
Entrepreneur Training
Affordable Housing
Loan Counseling
Community Development
Technical Assistance
Housing Education
Small Business Courses
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- 40+ years of community development experience in Kentucky
- Certified SBA lender and largest CDFI in Kentucky
- Created or retained 17,859 jobs through our programs
- Tailored community revitalization approaches for unique needs
- Partnerships with 30+ local organizations for comprehensive support
Associations and certifications
- HUD-certified housing counseling agency
- SBA lender
Services
Business Loans
Community Ventures provides critical capital access for Kentucky entrepreneurs through SBA loans and micro-loans ranging from $500 to $50,000. Our programs have funded 10,703 business startups and expansions with over $84 million in financing. We offer personalized loan counseling and technical assistance to help businesses succeed.
Homeownership Support
Our HUD-certified counseling services help Kentuckians achieve homeownership through education, affordable lending options, and repair assistance. We've supported over 1174 new homeowners with $19.9 million in loans and provided housing education to more than 1 million residents since our founding.
Disaster Relief
Western Kentucky disaster recovery programs provide housing solutions and business restoration after natural disasters. We've completed innovative SIP construction homes in Fulton County and connect residents with resources for uninsured property damage repairs through specialized funding programs.
Entrepreneur Training
Our comprehensive business development programs include small business courses, technical assistance, and networking events. We've delivered 99,000+ hours of training to Kentucky entrepreneurs while operating the Women's Business Center of Kentucky for specialized support to female entrepreneurs.
Community Development
Through venture creation and strategic partnerships, we implement large-scale community projects that create jobs and revitalize historic sites. Our initiatives include the Ventures Village business incubator in Fulton and multiple housing development projects across Western Kentucky.
People
Kevin Smith
President & CEO
Leading Community Ventures' strategic direction with over 25 years of nonprofit leadership experience. Championing community development initiatives that have impacted thousands of Kentuckians through housing and business programs.
Wiley Faw
Chief Financial Officer
Overseeing financial operations with expertise in fiscal planning and compliance. Ensures responsible stewardship of resources to maintain our certified CDFI status and maximize community impact across Kentucky.
Brenda Weaver
President of Disaster Recovery Lending
Managing disaster relief programs with focus on Western Kentucky housing solutions. Coordinates SIP construction projects and connects residents with recovery resources through personalized support and funding programs.
Devanny King
Director of the Women's Business Center
Specializing in women's business development with technical assistance and coaching programs. Helps female entrepreneurs access capital and resources to start and grow successful businesses across Kentucky.
Tammy Nesler
Disaster Recovery Specialist
Providing on-the-ground support for housing repair programs in Western Kentucky. Connects residents with funding solutions for uninsured property damage and coordinates community recovery initiatives.
Questions
What services does Community Ventures offer for entrepreneurs?
We provide business loans up to $50,000, SBA 504 loan programs, technical assistance, and small business courses. Our programs have funded 10,703 businesses with over $84 million in financing.
How can I get help with homeownership?
Our HUD-certified counselors offer homebuyer education, affordable lending options, and repair assistance. We've supported over 1,174 new homeowners with $19.9 million in loans since our founding.
What areas do you serve in Kentucky?
We operate statewide with focused initiatives in Western Kentucky, including Fulton County disaster recovery programs, and maintain offices in Lexington and Campbellsville.
How do I apply for a loan?
Visit our website to complete an application or contact our business development specialists. We offer personalized guidance through the loan process for both housing and business needs.
What community development projects are you working on?
Current initiatives include the Ventures Village business incubator in Fulton, SIP construction housing projects, and revitalization of historic sites through our venture creation programs.
Do you offer disaster recovery assistance?
Yes, we provide emergency housing solutions and business recovery support in Western Kentucky. Our programs include rapid construction of affordable homes and repair funding for uninsured damage.