The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands District Office, awarded Popular the 2025 U.S.V.I. Silver Lender of the Year and Puerto Rico Gold Lender of the Year awards, in recognition of its performance in providing SBA 7(a) financing during the 2025 federal fiscal year. These awards highlight the institution’s leadership in providing access to capital for small businesses in both markets, thereby supporting the development and growth of local entrepreneurs.
During the evaluation period, Popular approved 380 SBA 7(a) loans totaling in $47.7 million, which included four loans in the U.S. Virgin Islands for $1 million and 376 loans in Puerto Rico for $46.7 million.
“This recognition reaffirms Popular’s long-standing commitment to the small business community across the Virgin Islands,” said Darren Vanterpool, Senior Vice President and Manager of the Virgin Islands Region at Popular. “We understand that entrepreneurship is a journey filled with important decisions and milestones. That is why business owners can count on us to be by their side every step of the way, offering guidance and financial solutions that help them grow, adapt, and succeed.”
“More than just an award, this achievement represents hundreds of business owners who were able to access the capital they needed to grow, invest, and continue developing their businesses. That is the true impact of our work,” said Eli Sepúlveda, Executive Vice President of Commercial Credit and Services at Popular, Inc.
Additionally, Global Manufacturing LLC, a customer of Popular, was honored with the 2026 Small Business Manufacturer of the Year award, a distinction that recognizes the company’s operational excellence, innovation, and contribution to Puerto Rico’s manufacturing sector.
For more than twenty years, the SBA has consistently recognized Popular, solidifying its reputation as a strategic partner for small businesses in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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Contact:
Mariela Casellas
Mariela.casellas@popular.com
787-664-9457