Interview with ACCION USA: A look at Green Business

We recently talked with staff over at ACCION USA about green business and green financing alternatives - check out what they had to say about their resources for green business and their reflections on the growing field!  


'g': What kind of green programs and services do you offer?

A: ACCION USA is a leader in small business microlending. Our green loan programs helps small business owners who aren’t able to obtain traditional bank loans get the capital they need to run eco-friendly businesses. We work with both businesses that are offering green products and services to the community, like green cleaning services or weatherization services; and everyday small businesses looking to save money and energy. In addition to loans, we also offer training on green business practices through online classes and a library of tips and articles.

What kind of financing is currently available to businesses looking to go green?

Financing options for green businesses exist on a spectrum: on one end, you have bank loans with the lowest interest rates; and on the other, you have high-interest rate options like credit cards.

Where does your organization fit in?

Also on the spectrum is ACCION USA, which is a great option for small businesses that aren’t yet ready for bank loans, because they have more affordable interest rates than credit cards. We also understand the challenges that business face in going green, and our loan products and business training resources address that.

From your perspective, how has the demand for green services changed?

Recently, the concept of “going green” has become mainstream—everyone is tapped into the need to improve the environment, if only on a very basic level. This has prompted an increase in demand for green products and services, and increased awareness from consumers on green business practices– as H.L. Mencken said, “Nobody ever went broke underestimating the taste of the American public!” Many of our clients are small businesses wanting to benefit from this rise in green demand.

For example, one of our clients, Cheney Brand, owns a solar energy consulting and installation company. His strong belief in the importance of green energy and the environment prompted him to move to the green sector. He took out a loan with us in order to meet the huge demand for his solar panel design and installation.

A few years ago, solar panels were not considered a viable energy source or worthy of investment. Now, the businesses such as Cheney’s company and 'g' Green Design Center that have grown exponentially in recent years are proof of the increased demand for green products and services!

Why do you think “green” has grown in image and popularity? 

I think that now people are truly realizing the impact that their actions have on the planet. With the advent of globalization, it has become easier to see how one person’s decision can have an impact on the other side of the world. Green house gas emissions and toxins from a small construction company in Massachusetts can affect the rainforest in Brazil. Pesticide use from a local lawn care business can hurt community members. We’re all connected!