PRIDE IN CAPITAL

November 03, 2026

In July, CCLF hosted a “Pride In Capital” event at The Hatchery in East Garfield Park, where a panel highlighted community development financing opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community and others. Panelists included moderator, Rob Rose, Managing Director, Rose Capital Group, LLC; Taylor Mason, Founder and CEO, Taylor’s Tacos; James Norris, Director of Lending Operations, Chicago Community Loan Fund; and Brad McConnell, CEO, Allies for Community Business (A4CB).

Sponsored by PNC, the event provided an opportunity for networking and conversations that gave attendees insight into Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) and what it takes to bring projects from ideation to execution.

Norris provided a thorough explanation of the process CCLF borrowers undertake, including being paired with a meticulous but flexible underwriter, along with robust technical assistance to help keep projects on track.

Mason reflected on her experience working with A4CB as she developed her company, which began at The Hatchery and eventually grew to the point where she could venture out on her own.

Now in its third year, the gathering organized by CCLF has grown into what is known as Pride in Capital. CCLF’s mission to “help create communities where people thrive” applies to all communities and their particular needs, including Chicagoland’s LGBTQ+ community.

“At a time when traditional resources are strained, we want the LGBTQ+ community to know that we see the value they bring to the neighborhoods we serve and to see this as an intentional invitation to partner in achieving their personal and collective economic development goals,” explains DeMario Greene, Director of Policy and Government Relations, CCLF.

Those conversations led CCLF to take a deeper look in 2024. The discussions helped CCLF realize that we needed to include A4CB, one of our small business lending partners.

“Allies for Community Business enjoyed welcoming the Pride in Capital event to our home at The Hatchery,” said Brad McConnell, CEO of Allies for Community Business. “We will continue to partner with CCLF as we support LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs who are creating wealth and jobs in our communities.”
CCLF will continue to embrace conversations with developers and community leaders and invest in the people, places, projects, and ideas that help lift up all communities.