LITTLETON, MA - June 22, 2026:  Hanscom Federal Credit Union was granted Preferred Lender status from the U.S. Small Business Administration, strengthening its ability to support small businesses with faster, more efficient access to SBA financing. 

The SBA Preferred Lender designation gives HFCU delegated authority to make certain SBA loan decisions in-house, helping streamline approvals, reduce delays, and create a smoother experience for business members seeking capital. 

“Earning SBA Preferred Lender status is an important milestone for Hanscom FCU and a major benefit for the small businesses we serve,” said Peter Rice, President and CEO of HFCU. “Small business owners need trusted financial partners who can move with speed, confidence, and care. This designation allows us to deliver a more responsive SBA lending experience while helping entrepreneurs access the capital they need to grow, create jobs, and strengthen local communities.” 

The designation reflects HFCU’s growing experience in SBA lending and its commitment to serving business members with practical financing solutions. For small business owners, Preferred Lender status can mean a more direct process, quicker decision-making, and access to an HFCU team that understands both SBA lending requirements and local business needs.

“This is a big step forward for our business banking team and for the members and clients we support,” said Michael Duffany, Chief Lending Officer at HFCU. “Preferred Lender status gives us the ability to be more efficient and responsive while maintaining strong underwriting standards. It allows us to better serve small businesses that are looking to start, expand, acquire property, purchase equipment, or manage working capital.”

SBA 7(a) loans are commonly used for working capital, equipment, business acquisition, debt refinancing, and commercial real estate. The program is designed to help small businesses access financing that may not be available through conventional lending.

HFCU strengthened several small business relationships in 2025, including work with Indy Clover franchise owner Courtney Capano. After completing two SBA loans with HFCU, the credit union is now working with her on a third loan to support another location in Braintree, Massachusetts for the popular thrift and consignment business.

HFCU offers a full suite of business financial solutions, including SBA loans, investment property and commercial real estate loans, business lines of credit, merchant services, small business insurance, and other services designed to support businesses at every stage of growth.

About Hanscom Federal Credit Union

Hanscom Federal Credit Union, with more than $2.1 billion in assets, 96,000+ members, 300+ employees, and 23 branches across Massachusetts, Maryland, and Virginia, is one of the region's most trusted credit unions. Founded in 1953 on Hanscom Air Force Base, the organization's mission is to be the trusted advisor people turn to for unbiased financial guidance, and its vision is to help every member achieve financial wellness.

Guided by its core values - Members First, Integrity, Teamwork, Innovation, and Empathy - Hanscom offers a full suite of financial products and services, supported by thousands of shared branches and service center locations nationwide. Hanscom created WealthTrek, the world's first financial questing experience, transforming financial education into an interactive, game-like journey. The credit union proudly supports its communities through the Hanscom Federal Credit Union Charitable Foundation, contributing more than $500,000 annually to causes supporting veterans, military families, students, and local organizations. Follow HFCU on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

*Approved to offer SBA loan products under SBA’s Preferred Lender Program.