Summary
Partner Community Capital (PCAP) has been named the 2026 CDFI of the Year by the NC Rural Center, recognizing its significant impact in rural communities across the Southeast. The award was presented at the 2026 Rural Summit in Raleigh, North Carolina, and accepted by PCAP leaders Erika McGilley and Jessie Maxwell. The honor highlights PCAP’s innovative financing, technical assistance, and long-term investment in underserved areas. For over two decades, PCAP has expanded access to capital and support for small businesses, nonprofits, and community projects, helping drive economic growth and resilience in rural communities.
RALEIGH, N.C. — Partner Community Capital (PCAP) has been named the 2026 CDFI of the Year by the NC Rural Center, a prestigious recognition honoring community development financial institutions making a significant impact in rural communities.
The award was presented at the 2026 Rural Summit in Raleigh, North Carolina, where PCAP was recognized for its innovative approach to financing, technical assistance, and long-term investment in underserved communities across the Southeast.
PCAP Chief Lending Officer Erika McGilley and Executive Vice President & Director of Business Strategy, Jessie Maxwell, accepted the award on behalf of the organization.
“For more than two decades, PCAP has been committed to expanding access to capital and opportunity in rural communities,” said Marten Jenkins, President & CEO of Partner Community Capital. “This recognition reflects the dedication of our team and partners who work every day to support small businesses, strengthen local economies, and help communities achieve long-term prosperity.”
As a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), PCAP provides flexible financing and advisory services to small businesses, nonprofits, and community projects that may not qualify for traditional funding. Through Business Support Services and targeted disaster recovery efforts, PCAP continues to address complex economic challenges with tailored, community-driven solutions.
The NC Rural Center’s CDFI of the Year award highlights organizations that demonstrate excellence in advancing economic opportunity, particularly in rural and historically underinvested areas.
“This honor reinforces the importance of investing in people, places, and ideas that might otherwise be overlooked,” Jenkins added. “We’re proud to stand alongside so many partners who are working to build stronger, more resilient rural communities.”
