May 2026

In This Edition...

• Client Feature - Jennifer Goeden, Owner of Sweet Spruce Coffee
• FACC Received WEDC Grant
• Clarissa Skenandore, Portfolio and Program Manager at FACC
• Launch of the 2026 FACC Fundraising Campaign
• Upcoming Events

Brewing Opportunity in Iron River: Investing in Rural Promise

In rural communities like Iron River, Wisconsin, small businesses are crucial to local economies, and some entrepreneurs—such as women, Native Americans, or other underserved—often encounter greater obstacles in securing capital and reliable support. Sweet Spruce Coffee illustrates what can be accomplished when those obstacles are overcome through relationship-based lending and technical assistance.

After relocating her family to Iron River in 2023, owner Jennifer Goeden recognized a clear need—the town had been without a coffee shop for years. What began as a plan for a mobile coffee trailer quickly shifted to a permanent storefront as Jennifer navigated the realities of winter weather, available space and first-time business financing. With the help of her husband, who completed extensive remodel work, a small space in the local mini mall became the home of Sweet Spruce Coffee.

Still, understanding the business loan process and capital stack proved challenging. That’s when Jennifer connected with First American Capital Corporation and received one-on-one support focused not just on financing, but long-term business readiness and growth potential.

“I wasn’t treated like a number or a transaction. FACC made me feel worthy. The process was fair, transparent and human—and that gave me the confidence to move forward.”

Today, with help from her mother and daughter during the opening process, Sweet Spruce Coffee is contributing to Iron River’s economy and preparing for growth tied to seasonal tourism—demonstrating the lasting impact of mission-aligned capital.

FACC Awarded WEDC Grant to Expand Small Business Access to Capital

First American Capital Corporation has been awarded $125,000 through the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation Small Business Development Grant to expand access to capital for small businesses across the state. The funding is supporting equity grants that can be paired with FACC loan products, helping entrepreneurs meet owner equity requirements and strengthen their overall loan readiness—often a significant barrier to financing.

Beyond capital, qualifying business owners will receive loan readiness training and technical assistance from FACC, reinforcing the organization’s relationship-based approach to lending and long-term sustainability. This all-inclusive support ensures borrowers are better prepared to start, grow and sustain their businesses. The grants will be available statewide and are designed to support entrepreneurs and communities that have historically faced limited access to traditional financing.

Read the full story to learn how this funding will be deployed, who is eligible and how to apply:

Staff Spotlight: Clarissa Skenandore

For years, Clarissa Skenandore has been a steady presence at FACC, helping ensure clients feel supported and sharing about our services through community engagement.


Clarissa began at FACC as an administrative assistant and steadily took on greater responsibility. As longtime office manager, Beverly Anderson, prepared to retire, Clarissa worked closely under her mentorship, learning every facet of the role. When the transition came, Clarissa stepped in seamlessly—reflecting both her dedication to the organization and her deep understanding of its mission.


Today, as Portfolio and Program Manager, Clarissa manages much of FACC’s internal operations while remaining a key point of connection for clients. She is often the first person community members meet at outreach events, helping entrepreneurs navigate next steps and connecting them with the right FACC staff. Clients may also hear from her long after their first conversation, whether they are calling with questions, making payments or seeking guidance along the way.

Clarissa shares, “I love hearing people call back and say, ‘You helped me once, and I have another question.’”


For Clarissa, the work is about helping people move forward. She takes pride in listening, problem‑solving and helping businesses grow—work that aligns closely with FACC’s mission to serve and strengthen communities.

Learn more about FACC loan options or start a conversation by submitting an inquiry form below.

Philanthropic Support - A Catalyst for Good at FACC

Why Donations Matter at FACC

At FACC, donations are not charity—they are catalytic capital. Philanthropic support strengthens FACC’s lending model by expanding access to capital without increasing the burden on entrepreneurs. Donations help absorb risk that traditional lenders often avoid, allowing FACC to responsibly serve Native and underserved business owners. This approach keeps ownership, decision‑making and wealth rooted in local communities while addressing historic inequities in access to capital.

What Your Investment Makes Possible

Donor dollars don’t stop with a single use—they circulate. Contributions strengthen loan loss reserves, expand access for first‑time entrepreneurs, and support culturally responsive lending and technical assistance directly tied to business success. As capital moves through FACC’s revolving loan fund, it multiplies impact—fueling opportunity, stability and long‑term generational wealth across Wisconsin communities. By giving to FACC, donors become capital partners in a proven, Native‑led model of economic self‑determination.

To learn more or make a gift, please click the button below to contact Gary Mejchar.

Upcoming Events

FACC provides access to capital and development services to best serve Wisconsin Tribal enterprises, Native-owned businesses and other underserved businesses thanks to the support of the following organizations.