Investing in Michigan.

The most impactful change often starts at the local level. When we uplift and empower our neighbors, we can help more people achieve their dreams.

A view of a street in Downtown Detroit in the evening
There’s power in confidence. In someone who believes in your vision. And who wants to see you achieve your dreams. To make an even greater impact in Michigan communities, Lake Trust has held the designation as a Certified Development Financial Institution (CDFI) since 2019. This means that we’re recognized by the U.S. Department of Treasury as a financial institution that’s expanding economic opportunity in underserved communities.
ENHANCING WELLBEING

Supporting local communities.

ENHANCING WELLBEING

Supporting local communities.

Funding from the CDFI program helps us provide accessible financial solutions for individuals, families, and small businesses in low-income neighborhoods in Michigan. By reinvesting in local communities, CDFI funding helps stimulate economic growth and provides safe, affordable financing options. This program enhances financial wellbeing for people who may otherwise not have qualified for funding or who may have abandoned their dreams for their small business.
LEARN MORE ABOUT CDFI1
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Making a positive impact.

Lake Trust is one of more than 50 CDFIs in Michigan. This designation allows us to receive grants and participate in specialized programs that support low- to moderate-income households and entrepreneurs in our state. View our yearly impact report to learn more about how we utilized our CDFI funding last year.

SEE OUR 2023 IMPACT
CDFI WORK

Small business microloan program.

CDFI WORK

Small business microloan program.

After discovering a need for small business financing under $50,000, we developed a small business microloan program in 2019. Supported by CDFI funds, these loans have helped entrepreneurs purchase new tools, equipment, and business vehicles; expand services; renovate storefronts; access additional working capital; and more. With more funding options to support growth, small businesses have more opportunities to create jobs and make a greater impact on the local economy.
LEARN ABOUT MICRO LOANS
Ne'Gyle, the owner of Bleu Bowtique, looks at a computer screen with a Lake Trust team member
CDFI WORK

Lake Trust Easy Cash loan program.

CDFI WORK

Lake Trust Easy Cash loan program.

As inflationary costs continue to impact household budgets, we recognized a shift in our members’ financial needs, like quick access to secure funds to cover emergencies or even basic expenses. Support from CDFI funding helped us create Easy Cash, a relationship-based product created to support our members’ needs. Qualified Lake Trust members can request up to $2,000 and access the funds within 15 minutes of application submission.
Learn more
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Noteworthy News

Together with our members, business partners, and community supporters, we're working to make a positive impact in Michigan. Learn more about our latest projects, community wellbeing efforts, and initiatives to create stronger neighborhoods right here in Michigan.

Five Individuals Receive Career Support Through Lake Trust Foundation Scholarship Program

Meet the 2024 Lake Trust Foundation Scholarship recipients and learn more about their plans to make an impact in Michigan.

Abbie Dyer -

9 Ways to Have a Fun and Cheap Family Vacation

If you’re ready to break down the cubicle walls it might be time for a getaway. Here’s tips on how to travel on a budget.

Abbie Dyer -

One Act. Big Impact. The Raffle That Gives Back.

You could win up to $20,000 in the Lake Trust Credit Union Foundation Raffle AND help support wellbeing initiatives in Michigan communities.

Abbie Dyer -

Helping others on their self-care journey.

Sylvia's Sudsery, LLC of Lansing offers artisan soaps, bath bombs, foaming sugar scrubs, and more. But, the heart of Sylvia's Sudsery is to create an accepting and inclusive space that supports others on their self-care journey.

Anne Trelfa -

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