Gordon Fales supports ACCION USA through leadership inside and outside his office

As Vice President of Business Development at Mercantile Bank in Miami, Gordon Fales is dedicated to small business development. Gordon’s commitment to ACCION USA grew from professional involvement into personal dedication as he learned more about the work that ACCION does to help small business owners succeed.

Clear and Simple
Gordon first learned about ACCION USA when his bank was focusing on community redevelopment and looking for a micro-lending partner operating in the region.  ACCION USA stood apart from other organizations because of the simplicity and clarity of its lending program. Gordon was convinced “the people I met and the way they presented themselves were very understandable—to me and to our future clients,” clients that are served by both ACCION USA and Mercantile Bank.

Involved and Enthusiastic
As Gordon learned more about ACCION USA, he became more involved with the local program in Miami. He now serves as co-chairman of the Miami Advisory Board, and actively seeks out new board members from other banks and companies.

For Gordon, it’s all about having an impact with start-up entrepreneurs. “My enthusiasm relates directly to the effectiveness of the local office; how they seek clients and close loans so that entrepreneurial businesses really are starting up in small store fronts and on the streets and sidewalks of South Florida.”

A Committed Leader
Gordon’s commitment to economic development extends beyond his professional capacity; he is also a vocal and fervent advocate for ACCION USA in South Florida. He says, “Clearly I have a CRA leadership responsibility within my Bank and I believe this type of economic development is important in many locations throughout the state of Florida.”