As the only CDFI solely devoted to supporting economic development in Indianapolis, the Build Fund is committed to generating economic growth in Marion County by connecting businesses to flexible, affordable, and responsible funding. The Build Fund follows opportunities to help serve XBEs businesses in our community.
While we hope to strengthen all businesses in the area, we want to create opportunities for those that have traditionally been underserved. We believe diversity fuels the kinds of innovation that boosts our local economic development. This is why we are pleased to support minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned organizations and business leaders that reflect our diverse community.
The Build Fund has had the opportunity to help XBE businesses in our community like women-owned (WBE), minority-owned (MBE), and veteran-owned (VBE), see continued success. Here are some examples of how we have been able to help provide opportunities to those in our community.
The Women-Owned Business of Ash & Elm
Ash & Elm Cider Company moved into its first permanent home located on the near-eastside of Indianapolis in 2016. They used their new equipment, funded with the help of Build Fund, to craft their award-winning cider using apples from around the Midwest and help cultivate the market for craft cider in Indianapolis. The husband and wife owners, Aaron and Andrea Homoya, are passionate about connecting with local orchardists and farmers, both to keep the freshest ingredients in their cider and to support local small businesses.
The Minority-Owned Business of Heartland Environmental Associates
Heartland Environmental Associates, Inc. is a full-service environmental consulting firm. Heartland’s professional staff offers more than 60 years’ experience, providing their clients a complete and professional job that will stand up to the rigors of governmental examination. A Build Fund loan helped Heartland acquire property for its Indianapolis headquarters.
The Veteran-Owned Business of Hotel Tango Whiskey
Hotel Tango Whiskey was the first small batch distillery in Indiana and the first disabled veteran-owned distillery in the country. Since opening in 2014, Hotel Tango has quickly expanded and its spirits and now can be found in hundreds of restaurants, bars, and retail establishments throughout Indiana and Ohio. Hand-crafted cocktails, as well as bottles of each artisanal spirit, are available at the Fletcher Place tasting room and distillery, a renovated 19th-century carriage house. A Build Fund equipment loan enabled Hotel Tango Whiskey to expand its production to reach its increasing consumer base.
We would also like to thank our partners who have assisted in the success of local XBE businesses. Interested in becoming a lending partner? Reach out to us.
