OUR STORY
Transforming Lives through
Economic Empowerment
MINA was founded by Belkis Shindell, whose journey in microfinance began over fifteen years ago in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, while working for the SNV Group of Funds. There, she partnered with a diverse group of investors and borrowers to support economic opportunities for individuals living in poverty. During this time, she witnessed firsthand the limited access to affordable financing in underserved communities, where borrowers were often left at the mercy of predatory lenders charging exorbitant interest rates under oppressive terms. These practices placed borrowers at constant risk of losing their assets and deepened the cycle of poverty.
After relocating to the United States, Belkis recognized the same systemic barriers affecting immigrant and minority communities. Driven by her commitment to economic justice, she brought together a trusted team of professionals to establish Minorities Allied Lenders (MINA), a mission-driven microlending organization designed to offer fair, accessible, and community-rooted financial services to underserved populations.
In MINA’s early days, Belkis invited her former colleague Josefina Gomez to help lay the foundation of the organization. Josefina’s departure to continue her professional journey at a financial institution opened the door for other dedicated individuals, former coworkers and friends who shared Belkis’s passion, to join the cause. This spirit of collaboration and shared purpose became central to MINA’s growth and identity.
MINA was built on the belief that every individual deserves a fair opportunity to succeed, regardless of language, immigration status, or financial history. Many of its clients have been denied loans by traditional banks, often due to a lack of credit or unfamiliarity with the U.S. financial system. These same individuals frequently face language barriers and a deep sense of discouragement after being overlooked or mistreated by mainstream institutions.
MINA exists to bridge that gap. Through culturally competent, inclusive, and ethical lending practices, the organization provides the support and resources needed for individuals to build stronger financial futures. With a focus on empowerment, MINA continues to stand as a beacon of hope and opportunity for communities too often left behind.
Our
MISSION
MINA’s mission is to empower individuals from disadvantaged communities to achieve financial independence and economic mobility by providing capacity-building initiatives, entrepreneurial education, and wealth-building strategies that equip them with the tools and knowledge to create lasting opportunities for themselves and future generations.
Our
VISION
Resilient communities where opportunity, dignity, and innovation thrive for all.
Our
VALUES
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Social responsibility
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Innovation
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Independence from political, commercial, and religious ideals
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Integrity
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Collaboration
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Transparency
Our
FUNDAMENTAL STATEMENT
MINA is more than a micro-lender; we are stewards of trust and social impact. Under the supervision of state and federal authorities, we maintain the highest standards of integrity and transparency.
Every client is treated with respect and care, and we strive to understand the unique challenges behind every loan application. We are committed to diversity and inclusion, rejecting all forms of discrimination and ensuring equitable treatment for all.
Transparency is key. We provide clear, comprehensive information throughout the loan process, empowering clients to make informed decisions without hidden terms. Efficiency is also a priority, as we streamline our processes to minimize delays and ensure a smooth experience.
At MINA, we aim to create lasting social and economic impact. By supporting disadvantaged groups, we help level the playing field, contributing to sustainable growth and positive change—one client at a time.