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Our Community Reinvestment in California

Home > About  > Community Reinvestment Act > Our Community Reinvestment in California

At Sunwest Bank, we are committed to meeting the credit needs of communities across California, including those in low-to-moderate income neighborhoods. As part of our commitment under the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA), we offer small business financing and community development loans that may receive CRA consideration. These programs help businesses access the capital they need to grow, create jobs, and strengthen local economies.

Giving back is one of our core principles. Through #SunwestServes, our employees volunteer their time and resources to support nonprofits that provide food, housing, health, education, and essential services to vulnerable populations. By combining lending, investments, and service, Sunwest Bank ensures that every part of our community has the opportunity to thrive.

Connect with a Community Banker in California

CRA Lending in California

CRA lending is one of the most important ways Sunwest Bank reinvests in local communities. We offer CRA small business loans and financing solutions that empower entrepreneurs in Orange County and beyond. Whether you’re a retailer in Anaheim, a healthcare provider in Irvine, or a family-owned restaurant in Santa Ana, our lending programs are designed to provide accessible capital that fuels growth and opportunity.

Accelerated Small Business Financing

For a streamlined process with decisions after a complete application, our Accelerated Small Business Financing program provides term loans and lines of credit up to $250,000 with streamlined processing and minimal fees. These loans help cover working capital, equipment purchases, or business expansion, giving small business owners in California fast access to the capital they need to succeed.

Key Advantages:

  • Flexible use of funds for most business purposes
  • Transparent terms and competitive fees
  • Fast approvals designed for small businesses

Business Lines of Credit

Sunwest Bank’s Business Lines of Credit give companies the flexibility to draw funds when they need them most. With on-demand access to capital and interest charged only on what you borrow, this revolving credit solution helps businesses across Orange County manage cash flow, cover payroll, or seize new opportunities.

Key Benefits:

  • Reusable access to capital within approved limits
  • Lower costs than credit cards
  • Flexible use for virtually any business purpose

SBA Lending

As a Preferred SBA Lender, Sunwest Bank connects California entrepreneurs with government-backed loans that expand access to affordable financing. SBA 7(a), 504, and CRE loans offer longer repayment terms, lower rates, and broader eligibility criteria, making them especially impactful for startups, minority-owned businesses, and those in underserved areas.

SBA Options:

Visionary Card

Beyond loans, we help businesses manage daily expenses with the Sunwest Visionary Card. This no-fee commercial card provides real-time expense tracking, built-in fraud protection, and cashback rewards, giving California businesses a smarter way to manage cash flow and build credit. Other fees may apply; see Visionary Card Rates & Fees and Cardholder agreement.

Sunwest Visionary Card

Beyond Lending – Business Banking & Education

Sunwest Bank offers more than loans considered under the CRA in California. Our full suite of business banking services helps entrepreneurs manage cash flow, streamline operations, and plan for long-term success. From checking and savings accounts to treasury management and digital tools, we provide solutions designed to grow with your business.

We also believe that education is a key part of empowerment. Sunwest provides resources, articles, and insights to help business owners understand financing, banking best practices, and strategies for sustainable growth. These tools are especially valuable for small businesses navigating today’s competitive market.

Investments and Service

Investments & Service in California

In addition to lending, Sunwest Bank invests in programs and organizations that strengthen California communities. Our employees actively participate in #SunwestServes, supporting nonprofits that provide affordable housing, food security, healthcare, and education throughout Orange County.

From volunteer hours to charitable contributions, we emphasize local service that aligns with the Community Reinvestment Act and directly benefits families and small businesses in the neighborhoods we serve. In California, Sunwest Bank also invests in Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs). These partners expand access to credit, promote business and economic development, and support job placement and inclusive growth across our communities.

From volunteer hours to charitable contributions, we emphasize local service that aligns with the Community Reinvestment Act and directly benefits families and small businesses in the neighborhoods we serve. In California, Sunwest Bank also invests in Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs). These partners expand access to credit, promote business and economic development, and support job placement and inclusive growth across our communities.

Local Impact Across Orange County

Sunwest Bank’s CRA lending and community investments are making a measurable difference in California areas, including but not limited to:

  • Anaheim – Helping minority-owned retail businesses expand storefronts and create jobs.
  • Irvine – Financing healthcare startups and professional service firms that power innovation.
  • Santa Ana – Supporting restaurants and family-owned businesses with flexible working capital.
  • Huntington Beach & Newport Beach – Backing community based nonprofit organizations and hospitality companies that fuel local economies by supporting small businesses and helping create jobs.
Hope Builders

Each loan and investment strengthens the fabric of Orange County, ensuring that opportunity reaches every neighborhood and every business, from accounting firms to local construction business.

Branches Serving Your Community

Visit one of our California branches to meet with a banker who understands your community and its unique opportunities:

Irvine Branch

2050 Main Street, Suite 100
Irvine, CA 92614

Irvine Branch

San Clemente Branch

905 Calle Amanecer, Suite 100
San Clemente, CA 92673

San Clemente Branch

Tustin Branch

18302 Irvine Blvd. Suite 100
Tustin, CA 92780

Tustin Branch

Our Commitment to California

Sunwest Bank is dedicated to serving all neighborhoods in which we operate and accept deposits—primarily in Orange County—including those with low-to-moderate incomes. By combining CRA loans, community investments, and employee service, we ensure that every business owner has the opportunity to grow, succeed, and contribute to a stronger future.

Connect with a Community Banker in California

Frequently Asked Questions About CRA Loans

What is a CRA loan?

CRA loans are part of the Community Reinvestment Act, a federal requirement for banks to help meet the credit needs of the communities they serve. At Sunwest Bank, CRA loans typically include small business loans, SBA loans, and community development financing that directly benefit local neighborhoods.

What types of businesses typically qualify for CRA loans in California?

Sunwest supports a wide range of industries across California, including professional services, hospitality, healthcare, retail, and small manufacturing. Loans often fund working capital, equipment purchases, or expansion projects that generate local employment.

What CRA lending programs are available in California?

Sunwest Bank offers multiple CRA lending programs, including Accelerated Small Business Financing, SBA loans, conventional business loans, and business lines of credit.

Does Sunwest Bank partner with Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) in California?

Yes. Sunwest Bank invests in Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs) within California to help expand credit access and financial inclusion in historically underserved communities.

Are CRA loans only available to businesses in low-income neighborhoods?

No. CRA loans are available throughout Sunwest Bank’s assessment area, but special emphasis is placed on ensuring credit access for small businesses and individuals in low-to-moderate income communities.

Small Business Transaction

All Locations Sunwest Bank Serves

Sunwest Bank is proud to serve communities across multiple states. Our CRA lending and community reinvestment programs extend beyond Orange County, supporting small businesses and community development throughout our assessment areas.