October 14, 2025 - For Immediate Release
Albuquerque, N.M. – Nusenda Credit Union recently announced Encuentro and 100% Otero as new partners in its growing Microloan program, an initiative designed to help expand economic opportunity for individuals and entrepreneurs who may not have access to traditional financing.
The Nusenda Microloan Program, powered by community partnerships, offers relationship-based lending to help underrepresented and underserved populations build businesses. The program is built on trust, not credit scores, and delivers access to capital through trusted local nonprofits, cooperatives, and educational institutions that provide support and financial capability guidance in real time throughout the loan’s cycle.
“Our microloan program isn’t just about financing, it’s about breaking down barriers and giving those who don’t otherwise quality for a loan a chance,” said Michelle Dearholt, Nusenda’s President and CEO. “By partnering with organizations that are deeply connected to their communities, we’re able to support aspiring entrepreneurs, watch their businesses grow, and positively impact their communities.
Encuentro is a leading organization in Albuquerque focused on adult education and economic mobility for Latino immigrant families. 100% Otero, based in southern New Mexico, works to end child poverty through systems change and support for local families. Both bring deep relationships and local knowledge that will help reach a broader range of people in more communities.
“We’re honored to work with partners like Encuentro and 100% Otero, who are making such meaningful differences every day,” said June Manning, Nusenda’s Microloan Program Manager. “Each new collaboration helps us grow the reach and impact of this program.”
To date, Nusenda has provided more than $3.2 million in microloans through over 500 loans, helping to create over 324 jobs across New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, and Colorado. In 2024 alone, more than 50 microloans totaling $472,000 were issued across these communities. In response to the growing demand, loan amounts were recently increased from $10,000 to $50,000, giving entrepreneurs greater access to the capital they need to scale their businesses.
The program includes 23 community partners, including Native Women Lead, Cultivating Coders, the Street Food Institute, UNM Innovation Academy, and now, Encuentro and 100% Otero. Each organization plays a vital role in helping applicants access capital and business development support in a way that’s personalized and community-driven.
To learn more about the Nusenda Microloan Program, visit: www.nusenda.org/microloan-program
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About Nusenda Credit Union
Nusenda Credit Union is New Mexico’s largest locally owned and operated credit union with over 280,000 members and more than 900 employees. It has more than 30 branches throughout New Mexico and West Texas, serving the communities of Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Santa Fe, Taos, Valencia County, Socorro, Deming, Las Cruces, and El Paso. There are hundreds of ways to join the credit union. Connect with Nusenda Credit Union at www.nusenda.org; Facebook @NusendaCU; Twitter @NusendaCU; and LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nusenda-credit-union.
Insured by NCUA | Equal Opportunity Lender
Media Contact: Eric Harrison, (505) 610-0419 or [email protected]