About
Greenwood Archer Capital (GAC) is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that expands access to character-based, flexible financing for entrepreneurs in historically underinvested communities. Founded in 2012, we pair capital with coaching and technical assistance to help businesses launch, grow, and thrive. More than lenders, we are trusted partners in community revitalization.
Character-Based Lending
An approach that not only focuses on traditional financial metrics (like credit score, collateral, or strong cash flow) but also considers the borrower’s reputation, track record, personal reliability, and community standing.
Technical Assistance Workshops
GAC offers monthly workshops designed to strengthen the financial and operational foundations of small businesses. Sessions cover topics like cash flow management, pricing, and business growth strategies, with opportunities for one-on-one follow-up coaching. In 2025, GAC hosted 12 workshops, serving more than 110 entrepreneurs, which helped participants build confidence, strengthen their financial literacy, and make data-driven decisions for long-term success. Workshops are open to entrepreneurs at all stages, whether launching a business or planning for growth.
Our Team
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Terrence Johnson
Executive Director
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Laura Garcia Escarzaga
Senior Loan Officer
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Marlene Guzman
Loan Officer
our Board
Nicole Jackson, Chair
Applegate & Thorne-Thomsen, P.C.
Patricia Forde
Steans Family Foundation
Lisa Herrera
Raza Development Fund
Louis Leonardi
Wintrust
Nneka Onwuzurike
The Community WEB
Arnold Pugh
Federal Reserve Bank (Ret.)
Angela Woolfolk
McCaffrey (Ret.)
our Loan Approval Committee
Louis Leonardi, Chair
Wintrust
LaForce Baker
Baker Enterprises
Karl Bradley
Cook County Dept of Planning and Development
Cecilia Cuff
The Nascent Group
Takina De Lacy
Pet Tee Apparel
Chris Egan
Steans Family Foundation
Brad Mayer
First Eagle Bank
Christian Dorsey
Providence Bank
Steven Forde
Marquette Bank
Jerri Edwards-Smith, Vice-Chair
IFF
Phillip Greiner
Old National Bank
Christine Villacorta
SB Friedman
