Welcome
Baltimore Community Lending’s mission is to support the revitalization and strengthening of underserved communities throughout the Baltimore metro area through innovative and flexible financial assistance designed to promote community development.
We're Officially open!
The BCL headquarters and
The Frank B. Coakley Business Development and Resource Center!
Located at 301 North Calvert Street Baltimore , MD 21202
On June 18, we opened the doors to our new headquarters and the Frank B. Coakley Business Development & Resource Center — a dynamic new space dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community changemakers.
View Event Highlights
Take a look at the moments that made our grand opening unforgettable.
Impact report
Aspiring entrepreneurs are opening their own businesses in droves, and community developers are pushing to make affordable housing available to those who need it most. Discover how we're helping realize these goals to help improve the lives of the people and communities we serve.
Celebrating Exceptional Leadership!
Watchen Harris Bruce Honored as One of The Daily Record’s 2024 Most Admired CEOs
🌟 Celebrating Exceptional Leadership! 🌟
We had the honor of celebrating our CEO, Watchen Harris Bruce, who was recognized as one of Maryland’s Most Admired CEOs by The Daily Record. Out of 80 impressive nominees, only 33 were honored with this esteemed award that speaks volumes about her exceptional leadership, deep compassion, and unwavering dedication to our mission. Nominated by our team, this award highlights how her passion inspires us to reach new heights every day.
Under her guidance, we are constantly pushed to be our best – for each other, for our clients, and for the communities we serve. We’re thrilled to see her incredible impact recognized on such a high level.
Congratulations, Watchen! Well deserved!
Baltimore Community Lending Unveils Headquarters for Economic Equity
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact: Deja Cromartie Regan Farley pr@intelmediagroup.com Baltimore Community Lending Unveils Headquarters for Economic Equity BALTIMORE, MD (May 28, 2025) — Baltimore Community Lending (BCL) invites the public to join a special celebration as it opens the doors to its new headquarters on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 12:00…
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Built From the Ground Up: The Rise of Lightning Electric and the Story of Sekwan Merritt
By: Jessica Brockington Marketing and Communications Officer at Baltimore Community Lending Sekwan Merritt, founder and owner of Lightning Electric, didn’t just start a business—he sparked a movement. His company, an electrical contracting firm based in Baltimore, does more than wire buildings; it powers possibilities for people often left behind. Lightning Electric handles everything from lighting…
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The Entrepreneurial Journey Vol 3
Hiring your first employee or improving your hiring process? The Entrepreneurial Journey Vol. 3 is here to help! This free webinar is designed to guide small business owners through the essential steps of hiring with confidence and compliance. What You’ll Learn:✅ State and federal requirements for hiring employees✅ The step-by-step hiring process✅ The true cost…
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