Commercial Loan Officer

The Southwest Initiative Foundation is seeking a Commercial Loan Officer to originate, underwrite, and manage commercial loans and business financing programs. This role works directly with entrepreneurs, applicants, and community partners to structure and negotiate financing solutions, guide loans through closing and servicing, and manage a diverse loan portfolio. The position also ensures compliance and reporting for multiple state and federal programs while providing practical business technical assistance to support borrower success.

The ideal candidate brings strong independent judgment, analytical thinking, and discretion, along with the ability to build trusted relationships and navigate complex financial and human situations with empathy. This role requires a solid foundation in credit analysis, commercial finance, economic development, small business operations, and entrepreneurship, as well as experience with government-funded lending programs and their compliance requirements. Strong communication skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office and database systems, and comfort working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment are essential.

Knowledge of the southwest Minnesota economy and regional stakeholder network is highly valued.

This is an opportunity for a mission-driven finance professional who wants to make a meaningful impact through access to capital and small business success.

• Associate’s degree in accounting, business administration, finance, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
• Minimum of three years of experience in commercial business finance.
• Minimum of three years of experience working directly with entrepreneurs and small business owners, including experience with economic development programs or organizations.
• This position requires significant regional travel (estimated 2-3 days per week), as well as occasional state or national travel.
• Must provide personal transportation to travel as needed.

• Five or more years of experience in commercial business finance.
• Additional experience working directly with entrepreneurs and small business owners, particularly within community development or mission-based lending programs.

Southwest Initiative Foundation is a nonprofit community foundation serving southwest Minnesota, dedicated to strengthening regional economic vitality and expanding opportunity. We partner with individuals, businesses, financial institutions, and communities to drive local growth, support entrepreneurs, and foster lasting impact.

Our work is rooted in the belief that when wealth stays local, it fuels economic mobility and builds resilient communities. In 2024, we launched Southwest Minnesota Community Capital (SMCC), our emerging Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), to expand access to capital and deliver mission-driven lending that supports historically underserved populations and promotes long-term business stability.

Through our Business Finance and Microenterprise Loan Programs, we collaborate with banks, credit unions, and other partners to create and retain quality jobs, strengthen small businesses, and help communities compete in a global economy. Beyond lending, we provide technical assistance and resources supporting entrepreneurs with tools in accounting, operations, and marketing. At our core, we connect people, capital, and ideas to build a stronger, more inclusive southwest Minnesota.