U.S. Air Force file photo

More than 60 news businesses in the Fresno area have received funds, loans and financial literacy training thanks to a new tool for the region.

The website FundingFresno.com features a matchmaking tool powered by venturize.org, a program of the nonprofit Small Business Majority. Business owners can fill out an online form to get connected with resources, capital and other forms of support.

If seeking capital, the questionnaire asks for basic financial information including a personal credit score, business revenue and projections. The free tool called MatchFinder will then pair applicants with mission-driven lenders and nonprofit business support providers. Even if there isn’t a funding match, it will connect applicants with other business assistance centers and online resources.

The website is meant to help entrepreneurs in marginalized communities, with a focus on areas in the 93701, 93702, 93706, 93721 and 93725 ZIP codes.

“This is why we have partnered with Funding Fresno and the network of business service providers to promote economic health and mobility,” said Carlos Huerta, associate director of the Center for Community Transformation at Fresno Pacific University, one of the partnering organizations.. “Funding Fresno is a one-stop shop connecting entrepreneurs and business owners to the resources available to them.”

FundingFresno.com founding funders are JPMorgan Chase & Co. and Citibank. Other local partners include Central Valley Community Foundation, Access Plus Capital, Community Vision Capital & Consulting, Opportunity Fund, Fresno Metro Ministry, Fresno DRIVE Initiative, Self-Help Federal Credit Union, the Fresno Area Hispanic Foundation, Saints Rest Community Economic Development Corp., Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce, A Hopeful Encounter Inc. and Helping Others Pursue Excellence (HOPE).