For Immediate Release
Baltimore Community Lending Launches New Kiva Hub to Expand Microlending Access, Led by Capital Access Manager Troi Carrington
Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Community Lending (BCL) is proud to announce a new partnership with Kiva, a global nonprofit dedicated to providing crowdfunded microloans to underserved entrepreneurs. As the newly designated Kiva Hub for Baltimore, BCL will enhance access to capital for small business owners who face barriers to traditional lending. Spearheading this initiative is Troi Carrington, an accomplished entrepreneur and business development leader, who joins BCL as the Capital Access Manager.
Kiva U.S. is an innovative funding model designed to address financial exclusion in the United States by providing zero-interest microloans to entrepreneurs who lack access to traditional funding. Since its inception in 2011, Kiva U.S. has facilitated over $50 million in crowdfunded loans from 230,000+ lenders to more than 9,000 borrowers. Through a network of 40+ locally based Hubs across the country, Kiva has provided affordable, risk-tolerant capital to historically underserved communities.
Troi’s Background and Entrepreneurial Expertise
Troi brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience to her new role, having owned and operated four businesses while working closely with over 300 entrepreneurs annually in Baltimore’s small business ecosystem. Her deep expertise spans business fundamentals such as finance, marketing, and sales, making her an invaluable resource for local entrepreneurs seeking capital and guidance.
“I consider myself an ‘accidental entrepreneur’—I started my journey organically, learning through trial and error,” said Troi. “Now, I’m passionate about using my experience to help others navigate the challenges of business ownership and unlock their full potential.”
Expanding Access to Capital Through BCL’s Kiva Hub
As Capital Access Manager, Troi will lead the charge in developing and growing BCL’s Kiva Hub from the ground up. Her role involves:
- Providing microloan opportunities to small business owners who have difficulty accessing traditional funding
- Identifying and addressing financial barriers faced by entrepreneurs
- Offering comprehensive support, including lending, technical assistance, and business resources
- Cultivating partnerships that strengthen Baltimore’s small business ecosystem
Through this initiative, Troi envisions making alternative lending a mainstream option for Baltimore’s underserved communities. By normalizing access to microloans, she aims to drive economic growth and create new opportunities for entrepreneurs who have been historically excluded from financial systems.
“The KIVA program will be a dynamic addition to BCL’s Business Development & Resource Center and Troi Carrington is the ideal Capital Access Manager to take the lead. With well over a decade of experience working with a diversity of small businesses, Troi brings a wealth of knowledge and an engaging enjoyment of her work to BCL as together we expand access to support and capital for Baltimore area entrepreneurs”, said Bonnie Crockett VP and Director of Small Business Lending at BCL.
A Vision for the Future
Troi sees the BCL Kiva Hub as more than just a lending program—it’s a movement to transform the financial landscape for small business owners. Her long-term vision includes:
- Establishing Kiva as a staple in Baltimore’s entrepreneurial ecosystem
- Developing tailored approaches to meet the needs of BCL, lenders, and borrowers
- Creating a supportive launchpad for both new and struggling businesses
- Driving sustainable economic change by empowering individuals and families through business ownership
Media Contact:
Jessica Brockington
Marketing Manager
[email protected]
Baltimore Community Lending