Justice Forward Fund

VCLF recognizes the injustice and inequity in financial systems.

We are committed to building new ways to move capital to those who have been historically, systemically disenfranchised and denied access to opportunity.

Through the Justice Forward Fund, we direct a portion of our impact investment capital to serving Vermonters traditionally and generationally excluded from conventional financial markets and services, including Black Vermonters, Indigenous Vermonters, Vermonters of Color (BIPOC Vermonters).

How the JFF loan is different

To preserve and grow wealth within those communities, and make Justice Forward Fund financing as accessible as possible, the Fund is different from other VCLF loan programs:

  • A simpler loan application and quicker decision

  • A one-time $60 application fee

  • 2% interest rate

  • No minimum collateral requirements

Need more than a loan?

Our Business Resource Center provides free advising and technical assistance to help you apply for one of our loans — plus ongoing support once you're a borrower.

Learn more

Ben Green
Business Navigator
& Resource Manager

Loan Guidelines

  • The Justice Forward Fund serves Vermonters traditionally, systemically and/or generationally excluded from conventional financial markets and services, including:

    • Black Vermonters

    • Indigenous Vermonters

    • Vermonters of Color (BIPOC Vermonters)

    The Justice Forward Fund serves Vermonters who have not yet had the opportunity to build wealth. Eligible borrowers include:

    • Small businesses, including sole proprietors

    • Net worth of any business owners cannot be in excess of $63,000. Equity in a primary residence will be excluded from this calculation

  • The Justice Forward Fund is available throughout Vermont.

    • working capital

    • equipment

    • inventory

    • facility construction or improvement

  • Between $1,000 and $50,000

  • 2% annual interest

  • There is a $60 application fee. There are no other fees or costs.

  • We encourage you to speak with us before submitting a loan application. Please complete the form below, contact us at admin@vclf.org, or call us at 802-223-1448.


Get In Touch

Interested in our loan programs, have questions, or just want to learn more? Fill out this form and we’ll be in touch!

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Makayla LaPerle
Loan Administrator

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MaryAnn Songhurst
Loan Administrator