Funding Possibilities, Building Futures Microlending and culturally rooted support to help communities thrive. Apply Now Breaking Barriers, Creating Opportunities Building economic strength in Black & immigrant communities join us

What We Do.

We are on a mission

Building a future where every entrepreneur has the resources and support to succeed.

Fursad Fund is a mission-driven financial institution empowering immigrants, refugees, and BIPOC entrepreneurs. Rooted in CAIRO’s commitment to breaking systemic barriers, we provide equitable access to capital, business support, and homeownership pathways.

cairo team

Recognizing the Barriers

Many immigrant and refugee entrepreneurs struggle to access capital due to credit history gaps, language barriers, and distrust in financial institutions. Traditional lenders often exclude them, while predatory loans trap them in cycles of debt. Without fair financial access, businesses stagnate, and communities miss opportunities for growth.

Taking Action

CAIRO recognized the need for fair capital access, leading to Fursad Fund—a mission-driven institution empowering businesses, homeowners, and local economies.

Scaling Impact

Fursad Fund provides loans, coaching, and support to help entrepreneurs grow, create jobs, and build wealth.

Guiding Principles.

We're making an impact

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Children & families served
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Service Sites
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Volunteers helping carry
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Core Programs in 65
countries and regions

What Challenges Do Refugee, Immigrant & BIPOC Entrepreneurs Face?

Many entrepreneurs from these communities struggle to access fair financing, limiting their ability to grow and sustain businesses. Language barriers, lack of mentorship, and discriminatory financial practices create additional obstacles, often trapping them in cycles of debt instead of opportunity.

Microfinance

Unlocking Capital Access

Providing fair and affordable microloans to entrepreneurs who have been excluded from traditional financing, helping them start, grow, and sustain their businesses.

Coaching

Empowering Through Education

Offering coaching and technical assistance to ensure business owners and families gain the financial knowledge and skills needed for long-term success.

Community Support

Building Generational Wealth

Creating pathways to homeownership and financial independence, fostering economic stability for families and communities.

Our Strength

Expertise. Partnerships. Equity.

Slide Our Team Fursad Fund staff and board members stand united and motivated by our mission. Each individual brings professional expertise, lived experience and empathy to their work and decision making. Read more Slide Our Mission Impact & Fiscal Responsibility The money we use to lend and invest comes from a variety of sources. We seek partners that share our commitment to investing in people and places prevented from accessing the traditional financial systems. Read more Slide Our Relationship We partner with organizations, communities and legislators to improve access to capital and business resources across Maine through programs and policy advocacy. We regularly work with our peers and other nonprofits to develop and implement products and programs that improve equity and remove barriers to capital access.  Read more Slide Our Commitment to Racial Justice We believe addressing racial inequities within the financial system is key to building a just and vibrant future.  We are working consistently to identify our own biases and improve our systems, products and programs to better serve people of color and other systemically denied people and demographic groups.  Read more

How It Work

How We Support Your Journey

1

Understanding
Your Vision

We take the time to learn about you and your business—your goals, challenges, and the impact you want to create. Every entrepreneur’s journey is unique, and we’re here to ensure you have the right tools to move forward.

2

Tailored Guidance
& Resources

We provide personalized coaching, technical assistance, and access to funding that aligns with your business needs. Whether you’re launching, expanding, or stabilizing your venture, we connect you with the right opportunities.

3

Empowering Growth
& Success

With the right capital, mentorship, and strategic support, your business can flourish and create lasting impact. We help you gain financial stability, increase confidence, and take your business to the next level.