The nonprofit business development organization WESST has been named the New Mexico Microlender of the Year 2025 by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Known best for its workshops and business consulting, WESST has a loan fund that offers microloans to qualifying businesses that work with its consultants.

One of the obstacles most commonly reported by entrepreneurs — particularly first-time business owners — is the difficulty obtaining capital to start or expand a business. WESST helps to fill this gap by providing small business loans for women and other entrepreneurs who encounter this difficulty. As a microlender, WESST specializes in financing viable businesses that don’t meet the criteria of banks or other traditional lenders.

WESST will be recognized as the Microlender of New Mexico 2025 at the U.S. Small Business Administration Awards Breakfast on May 8, 2025, during National Small Business Week. The event will be held at Sandia Golf Club in Albuquerque. Register here.

For over 60 years, the President has issued a proclamation in observance of National Small Business Week that recognizes small businesses as the backbone of our nation – driving innovation, job creation, and economic prosperity for millions of Americans. The SBA celebrates the week by recognizing the hard work, ingenuity, and dedication of America’s small businesses, lenders, and small business advocates and their contributions to the economy. Each Small Business Week winner demonstrates an inspiring commitment to entrepreneurship that serves as the foundation of American strength, growth, and opportunity. Small Business Week 2025 is May 4 through May 10.

Learn more about small business loans from WESST, and schedule an appointment to discuss your business needs.