Michael Schlein Takes Leadership as Chair of Accion Opportunity Fund's Board of Directors

A New Chapter for Accion Opportunity Fund

Accion Opportunity Fund (AOF) has announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of Michael Schlein as Chairman of its Board of Directors. This leadership marks a pivotal moment for the AOF, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting underserved small businesses across the United States.

AOF's Transformational Journey

Schlein joined AOF's Board in 2020 after the merger of Opportunity Fund and the Accion U.S. Network—a move that combined two nonprofits with decades of experience in expanding financial access for small businesses. This merger not only enhanced AOF's capacity but also positioned it as a national leader in inclusive financial services, enabling it to serve small businesses with innovative solutions tailored for their unique challenges.

Luz Urrutia, the CEO of AOF, expressed her enthusiasm about Schlein stepping into this crucial role. "Michael has long been an advocate for inclusive finance on a global scale," she noted. "His support has been vital to our evolution, and now, as Board Chair, he will lead us into our next phase—an organization driven by our mission while remaining financially self-sufficient and scalable."

Schlein has held the role of President and CEO at Accion since 2009. His extensive career encompasses more than just nonprofit leadership; he boasts a background in global finance and policy, having occupied leadership roles at institutions such as Citigroup and the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. His wealth of experience in fostering financial inclusion makes him an ideal choice for overseeing AOF's strategic direction.

Shaping the Future of Small Business Lending

In his new capacity, Schlein aims to steer AOF toward innovations that not only scale its services but also create lasting changes in market access for underserved communities. "I'm excited to take on this role at such a crucial time for AOF's journey," Schlein stated. He emphasized the necessity of responding to the rising demand for AOF's services, which point to a significant opportunity for innovation within responsible financial services, particularly vital for businesses striving to thrive in the digital economy.

With the current landscape for small businesses evolving rapidly, coupled with challenges brought on by economic shifts, AOF is positioned to play a critical role in facilitating access to capital and resources. This new chapter under Schlein's leadership is expected to enhance AOF's impact and further its mission of advancing economic mobility.

About Accion Opportunity Fund

Founded with the intent to empower underserved businesses and communities, AOF provides affordable capital, educational resources, and networks. Its goal is not just to lend money but to foster economic growth in low-income communities through knowledge sharing and advocacy. As AOF continues to navigate the complexities of financial inclusion, the organization remains a crucial partner for entrepreneurs seeking to access needed resources and support to succeed.

For further details on their offerings and initiatives, interested parties can visit aofund.org.

In a broader context, Accion focuses on creating a fair and inclusive economy worldwide. Their mission encompasses providing reliable financial solutions to those often overlooked by traditional financial systems, ensuring that nearly two billion underserved individuals are given the tools they need to thrive economically.

The announcement of Michael Schlein's appointment signifies a commitment to innovating the future of financial services, and his leadership is anticipated to guide AOF to new heights in its mission to support small businesses nationwide.