Published: October 17, 2024
Unity Trust Bank has been shortlisted for ‘Community Lender of the Year’ at the prestigious NACFB Commercial Lender Awards 2024.
Established in 1992, the National Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (NACFB) is the UK’s largest independent trade association for finance brokers. The annual NACFB Commercial Lender Awards recognises lending excellence across 20 award categories. This year, over 300 entries were received from more than 80 NACFB Patron lenders and Partner suppliers. Unity is shortlisted for the ‘Community Lender of the Year’ award which celebrates lenders that have embraced ethical, socially responsible lending as a force for positive change. The bank is now inviting NACFB Members to show their support and vote. Member votes will be combined with the judges’ selections to determine the category winner and highly commended entries.
“As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we’re delighted to be shortlisted for this award in recognition of our unwavering commitment to improving the lives of local communities.
“At Unity, our purpose is to help create a better society. We’re proud to support organisations that contribute to positive social, economic and environmental change. Every day, we work with sectors that provide front-line services to communities such as healthcare, education and charities.
“In 2023, our lending exceeded £1bn for the first time. Almost half of our loans were given to areas of high deprivation. Working with socially-minded organisations across the UK, our funding helped to support 1,458 care home spaces, 572 day care and education spaces and 7,143 jobs.
“Through our valued relationships with brokers, our customers are able to access vital funding support. This not only drives business growth, but also helps to unlock wider societal impact from their operations. This enables us to deliver tangible change to communities most in need.”
This year, Unity has pledged to donate £40,000 to good causes as part of its 40th birthday celebrations. The bank also launched the Unity Impact Grants Programme which invites Unity customers to apply for funding for community-enhancing projects. The application received more than 140 applications. We will reveal the winners in December – good luck!
The winners of the NACFB Commercial Lender Awards will be announced at a gala celebration. The celebration will take place on Thursday 28 November 2024 at Westminster Park Plaza.
NACFB Member voting closes at 5pm on Monday 21 October 2024.
