Building Up Rochester

CDFIs like the Enterprise Center at PathStone are investing in opportunity all over New York State, helping small businesses build the skills they need to thrive. The Rochester Business Journal shared our story. Pass it on to your representatives in Congress, and ask them to join the bi-partisan effort to support the U. S. Treasury Department's CDFI Fund so we can continue this vital work. 

Many small business owners struggle to secure funding for expansion despite their skills and ideas. They need someone in their corner to help navigate the maze of business plans and loan applications, and to avoid financial pitfalls.

Rivas Roofing Exteriors, LLC, a woman- and minority-owned business in Rochester, wanted to scale up their services. They had a hard time qualifying for a loan – until Jomara Rivas, CEO, heard about The Enterprise Center at PathStone. Jomara enrolled in their Loan Readiness Training Series (LRTS) – a free, virtual 7-week intensive program that gives small businesses the tools they need to secure funding.

PathStone is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), a mission-driven lender that helps small businesses grow by taking a “Capital Plus” approach by including mentorship and advisory services alongside their financial services.

CDFIs are certified by the U.S. Treasury Department to provide support for housing, small business, and community revitalization. Unlike conventional lenders, CDFIs like PathStone are focused less on profit and more on impact.

Last year, after completing the loan readiness training, Rivas Roofing was approved for a loan which allowed them to begin offering gutter cleaning, screening and installation, as well as skylights and roof snow removal. Building on this success, they expanded into siding – nearly doubling the company’s revenue.

And it’s not just Rivas Roofing that’s growing; it’s the whole community.

The business has created jobs, bringing on two additional crews. A team member has been inspired to start their own business, and Jomara has been mentoring and assisting them with setup and documentation.

CDFIs foster this kind of impact in low-income areas – urban, rural and everywhere in between. That’s why we’re urging our representatives in Washinton to support at least flat funding of $324 million in 2026 for the CDFI Fund program at the U.S. Treasury Department.

The Enterprise Center at PathStone helps the small businesses that create local jobs, keep dollars circulating in our community, and build intergenerational wealth. They make sure that entrepreneurs not only survive but achieve sustainable, long-term growth.

Supporting CDFIs, whether through private investment, local partnerships, or advocacy for federal funding, is an investment in the vitality of Main Streets, neighborhoods, and hardworking business owners across New York State.

Javier Zapata is president and executive director of The Enterprise Center at PathStone.