Amplify Equity

Amplify Equity (AE) supports community development by promoting equity and opportunity for people of color, women, justice-impacted, low-income, and other historically marginalized communities through financial assistance, education, and mentoring.

We envision a world where every individual and community has the power to thrive, regardless of their background. By dismantling systemic barriers through character-based loans, education, and mentoring, we aim to foster economic growth and stability, ensuring equitable access to resources. Our innovative approach empowers individuals and supports community development, guiding their journey toward sustainable growth. We are committed to creating a more just and fair society, where equitable opportunities lead to resilient, uplifted communities.

HISTORY

AE began in 1999 as Alternatives Venture Fund (AVF), a separate legal nonprofit created to support Alternatives Federal Credit Union (AFCU) in advancing economic and community development for marginalized communities. For many years, the organization operated without staff, with AFCU managing its activities.

In 2011, AVF became known as Alternatives Impact. In 2021, it launched RISE—Reimagining Inclusive Solutions for Entrepreneurs—a character-based lending program with free education and mentoring for underserved entrepreneurs. In 2022, the organization hired its first Executive Director, becoming fully operationally independent from AFCU. RISE was rebranded as The Business Accelerator at the Equity Lab, and in 2023, the nonprofit adopted its current name: Amplify Equity, Inc.

AE serves Broome, Chemung, Steuben, Tioga, and Tompkins Counties, with a headquarters in downtown Elmira. AE is the only local organization offering an integrated model that combines long-term mentoring, education, and financial assistance to support both start-ups and established businesses.

AE’S BUSINESS ACCELERATOR provides online business courses, 1:1 mentoring, and workshops for entrepreneurs at any stage of their business journey. Our model builds financial literacy and confidence, equipping clients with the skills needed to navigate business ownership’s complexities and achieve financial security.

AE’S COMMUNITY LOAN FUND offers business micro-loans up to $20,000 with flexible terms. Instead of relying on credit scores or collateral, we assess a business idea’s potential and its community impact. This compassionate approach increases access to capital for those typically excluded from traditional financing.

AMPLIFYING OPPORTUNITY IN OUR COMMUNITY, a pilot supported by Park Foundation, provides a cohort of ten women of color in Tompkins County with $1,000 monthly stipends (up to $10,000 annually), plus mentoring, workshops, and education. The pilot reduces financial stress while supporting strategic business growth, credit repair, and long-term stability. AMPLIFYING OPPORTUNITY IN BROOME COUNTY, launched in July 2025, adapts this model in partnership with the Binghamton Small Business Development Center and program support from the United Way of Broome County and the Ujeni Foundation.

FINANCIAL FOUNDATIONS FOR WOMEN & GIRLS, also launched in July with support from the Fund for Women of the Southern Tier, is a workshop series serving Chemung and Steuben Counties. It equips women and girls with essential financial knowledge and skills, creating a pathway to economic self-sufficiency and future participation in AE’s other programs.

Across all programs, AE offers a holistic, person-centered approach that helps underserved entrepreneurs build stable, thriving businesses and generational wealth—ultimately driving lasting change and vibrant communities. As one client shared, “I needed the funds to expand, but having someone listen and take an interest in your business success is essential.”