Investing in Arizona’s Future: Growth Partners Arizona backed by RDF with $500K to Expand Small Business Lending

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Phoenix, AZ – Growth Partners Arizona (GPAZ) is excited to announce a $500,000 investment from the RDF (Raza Development Fund) to expand access to affordable, responsible small business lending in communities across Arizona. This investment marks a significant milestone in GPAZ’s growth as an emerging Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), enhancing its capacity to serve Arizona’s small business ecosystem sustainably.

Following the completion of its statewide expansion in 2024, GPAZ is now positioned to reach more communities throughout Arizona, including areas often described as financial deserts—places where small businesses struggle to access the capital they need to grow and sustain their operations.

“This investment from our partners at Raza Development Fund is truly transformative for Growth Partners Arizona. It enhances our ability to offer affordable and responsible lending to local small businesses throughout Arizona. RDF’s commitment underscores how critical patient capital and trusted partnerships are in helping emerging CDFIs like ours grow sustainably so we can better serve the communities that need us most,” said Andre Whittington, Executive Director of Growth Partners Arizona.

Emerging CDFIs often face challenges scaling due to the limited availability of patient capital. RDF’s investment directly addresses this barrier, underscoring the critical role mission-aligned partners play in helping CDFIs like GPAZ expand their reach and deepen community impact. Beyond providing capital, RDF’s partnership offers invaluable guidance, fosters collaboration, and provides essential capacity-building support, ensuring GPAZ can sustainably scale its impact throughout the state.

“RDF is honored to invest in Growth Partners Arizona as they expand access to capital for entrepreneurs across Arizona. CDFIs play a vital role in supporting small businesses—the backbone of a thriving economy. We remain committed to mobilizing resources that fuel the growth of mission-driven lenders like Growth Partners Arizona, who are deeply rooted in their communities and creating pathways for small business success “ said Annie Donovan, President & CEO for RDF.

With this investment, GPAZ is better equipped to fulfill its mission of delivering affordable capital, building community resilience, and ensuring small businesses throughout Arizona have the resources they need to thrive.

About Growth Partners Arizona
Growth Partners Arizona is a mission-driven Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that delivers capital, tailored training, and strategic coaching to small businesses and nonprofits across Arizona. Its initiatives support economic stability and promote long-term growth in local communities.