Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs Inc. was recognized as Community Partner of the Year by the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at the chamber’s 30th Annual Awards Gala held on June 2. The gala is one of the most recognized and well-attended events in Georgia that celebrates Hispanic business and entrepreneurship. ACE was honored for its work with Hispanic business owners in the community.
 
ACE has served Hispanic clients for many years. And, since launching its Hispanic Initiative in 2017, the organization has deployed nearly $1.75 million in loans to Hispanic businesses owners. ACE has made a commitment to the Hispanic community not only by providing access to capital, but also in modeling the organization after the businesses they serve. ACE’s Hispanic team now makes up 25 percent of the company.  
 
“To say that we are proud to have received this recognition for our work in the Hispanic community is an understatement,” said Maria Peck, ACE’s director of Hispanic strategy and lending. “We look forward to our ongoing relationship with the chamber and helping its members achieve even greater business success.”  
 
ACE helps start and grow small businesses in Georgia through capital, coaching and connections, focusing on the underserved. The organization offers small-business loans, coupled with business advisory services, to credit-worthy businesses that are often overlooked by traditional financial institutions. The ACE Women’s Business Center, located in Norcross, provides a full range of services for entrepreneurs at all stages of planning, implementation and growth. The WBC opened in 2015, has served more than 2,600 clients and offers assistance in both English and Spanish.
 
Last year, 90 percent of ACE’s loans were made to underserved populations, providing vital economic opportunities to the business owners and communities who need it most.