FSC First

Why choose a CDFI for your business financing? For small, minority, or women-owned businesses in Maryland, finding a lender who understands your specific challenges and growth goals is essential for success. Unlike traditional lenders, Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) like FSC First offer customized financial solutions by tailoring loans and financing options to meet your needs. These organizations can also guide you through the financing process and offer resources to help your business succeed. CDFIs are committed to economic inclusion and invest in businesses that strengthen the local community. Partner with a CDFI like FSC First to take your business to the next level with strategic, accessible financing and additional resources to support your success! #CDFI #SmallBusinessGrowth #CommunityImpact #MarylandBusiness

We're thrilled to spotlight Lorraine Lee, franchise owner of Jersey Mike's Subs in Laurel, MD: https://lnkd.in/eVsDGkz8! After a successful finance career, Lorraine dove into hands-on experience to build a legacy business alongside her son Patrick and daughter Kelly. With support from FSC First's VLT Small Business Flex Fund loan, Lorraine brought Jersey Mike’s iconic subs to Laurel, fulfilling her vision of family-driven success. As she puts it, “It’s been a long journey, and FSC has been such an integral part of it.” Join us in supporting Lorraine and her family as they serve up success! 🥪

FSC First’s President & CEO, Dawn Medley, recently spoke at Bowie State University’s MBE/WBE Resource Breakfast to share insights on the transformative potential of the Northeast Maglev project. She described this collaborative project as “Disney monorail meets Star Trek”—a true game-changer for Maryland. Hear more from Dawn in the video above/below! With $4 billion in opportunities ahead for minority- and women-owned businesses, Dawn’s message to small business owners was clear: Start preparing now. At FSC First, we’re here to provide the guidance and resources to help you seize these opportunities and grow. 

Women-owned businesses have become a significant force in the global economy, breaking barriers, creating jobs, and inspiring future generations. #NationalWomensSmallBusinessMonth reminds us of the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs and ensuring they have equal access to resources, funding, and opportunities. Introducing Dr. Nicole Sergeant, founder and CEO of Morgan Taylor Scrubs (MTS)! As a licensed physical therapist with over 15 years of experience, Dr. Nikki saw a need for scrubs that were both comfortable and flattering for women of all shapes and sizes. Drawing on her background in fashion and healthcare, she created MTS, a medical scrub line that features antimicrobial, wrinkle-resistant, and moisture-repelling properties. Morgan Taylor Scrubs not only provides inclusive sizing from XS to 4XL but also offers a men’s line, ensuring healthcare professionals of all backgrounds can feel confident and comfortable. A portion of every order supports cancer research, honoring her mother's legacy. #WomanOwnedBusiness #SmallBusiness #SmallBusinessSuccess

FSC First is proud to sponsor the 10th annual TEDCO Entrepreneur Expo 2024! We look forward to supporting Maryland’s vibrant community of entrepreneurs and small businesses at this award-winning event. Join us on December 4, 2024, in Baltimore, MD for a full day of workshops, pitches, and networking opportunities. Don’t miss your chance to connect with the minds driving innovation in the state. Register now to join us at this year’s #TEDCOExpo: https://expo.tedco.md/

Nearly 60% of small businesses that suffer a cyber-attack close within six months. Don’t let your business be part of that statistic. #CybersecurityAwarenessMonth 🔐 Here are some essential tips to protect your business: - Build a cybersecurity culture - Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) - Use antivirus software & update it regularly - Secure your networks - Manage cloud service accounts - Back up sensitive data Protect your business. Secure your future. Find more information in our latest blog: https://lnkd.in/eXByttU3!

Save the date for April 3, 2025, for FSC First’s Annual Gala! Inspired by the culture of 1920s and 1930s Harlem, this night will feature vintage fashion and live jazz while celebrating the resilience, creativity, and community empowerment of small and minority businesses. Mark your calendars, and stay tuned for more information.

FSC First attended the “Invest & Grow: Where is the Funding for Our Local Small Businesses” event last night. Councilmember Wala Blegay led the event where small business owners got to hear from various funding experts about available funding opportunities. Keynote speaker and Angel Investor Chike Ukaegbu also gave insights on angel investing. FSC First VP of Business Development, J. Steward Smith sat on the panel and shared how FSC First’s creative business financial solutions help small businesses. It was an informative event! #FSCfirst #smallbusinessgrowth #entrepreneurship   

Join us for this evening for “Building Your Growth Team & Experts Roundtable" during @medamaryland’s 2024 Economic Development Week in Maryland on Thursday, October 24, from 6-8:30 PM in Upper Marlboro, MD. This event is designed to equip you with the knowledge and connections necessary to assemble the right team of experts to support your business growth. Hear from industry leaders like Will Holmes, Tisa Clark, Sterling McKinley, Hope Brown, and Adrian Wilcox, who will provide insights on business growth strategies, financial management, and leveraging expert support. You'll have the chance to network with fellow entrepreneurs and engage in a Q&A session to get answers to your most pressing business questions. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from the best and expand your network. Register now at the link in our bio to secure your spot!

In the October edition of Capital Acces$, we’re welcoming five new leaders to our Board of Directors, sharing a success story, celebrating Cybersecurity Awareness Month, and highlighting community events and grant opportunities. Check it out!