In May, we proudly celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich cultural heritage and remarkable achievements of AAPI communities across the nation. At Piermont Bank, this celebration is more than a tribute—it’s a reaffirmation of our commitment to supporting the innovators, entrepreneurs, and business leaders who are helping shape the economic future of our communities and the nation.
While the spotlight may often shine on today’s AAPI-led industry giants, their journeys often began with humble, hard-earned roots. Many AAPI entrepreneurs face systemic barriers to capital, challenges that include limited access to traditional financing, cultural and language gaps, and underrepresentation in investment networks. As a result, many have had to rely on personal savings, family resources, or community support to fund their businesses. Many AAPI success stories often remain unrecognized, underrepresented in national economic data.
“At Piermont Bank, we are deeply committed to bridging the funding gap for SMBs – especially those in underserved communities, including AAPI-owned businesses,” said Wendy Cai-Lee, Founder and CEO. “We understand that SMBs are the backbone of our economy, and they create a lasting impact. That’s why we meet founders where they are – with tailored financial solutions that empower growth. We’re proud to be an accelerator for many of our AAPI clients’ fast growth”.
Piermont has a proven track record of partnering with a wide spectrum of businesses, from early-stage tech startups to high-growth ventures. We understand what it takes to support visionary founders, and we bring that same expertise, energy, and partnership-driven approach to working with AAPI entrepreneurs, many of whom are transforming industries from fintech to advanced manufacturing and beyond.
At Piermont, inclusion is more than a value – it’s a commitment in action. We don’t just talk about inclusion; we invest in it. Through customizable financing options, expert advisory services, and a technology-enhanced, relationship-driven model, we provide AAPI founders with the tools and confidence to scale their businesses and achieve sustainable success. Learn more about our programs that support AAPI-owned businesses at https://www.piermontbank.com/campaignmma/