Tell us about yourself and why you are passionate about small business /entrepreneurship.
I am a San Luis Valley Native. I was born and raised in the SLV although I also have family rooted in Durango, Mexico. I am passionate about small business/entrepreneurship because that is the heart of our communities. Small businesses are what make our day to day lives whether you are going for ice cream, having dinner, or going to the gym to get a workout in.
Why do you think FSWCF’s mission is important?
The FSWCF mission is important because it brings access to capital to these small businesses so that they can continue to provide services to our communities.
What are your credentials/past experience, for working in your position?
I have nine and a half years of banking experience, seven and a half of which I spent working in consumer and commercial lending that aided in the success of many small businesses in Colorado.
What will your role at FSWCF entail?
My role as the Lending Specialist at FSWCF will allow me to provide guidance to our entrepreneurs on the different programs that we have available for funding. I will also help to process and underwrite the incoming applications and manage our existing portfolio of FSWCF loans.
What are you most excited about for your new role?
I am most excited to be a part of such an amazing non-profit whose goal aligns with my passion to serve my community.
Naya’s energy and positive attitude is contagious. I have had the pleasure to work with Naya as she served on the Rural Women Led Business Fund Loan Committee. Her perspective and passion for entrepreneurship is unrivaled. We are fortunate to add her to our team as our new Lending Specialist. I look forward to working with Naya to grow our ever-impactful rural portfolio.
— Azarel Madrigal, Executive Director
What do you enjoy doing when you are not working?
Outside of work hours, I enjoy spending time with my son, riding my motorcycle, wrapping automotive vehicles, taking long walks outside, and singing.