Join a Success Circle
Build financial strength, together.
Apply To Join A Success Circle
Success Circles are supportive groups of 4 to 8 people who encourage one another, share ideas, and gain access to low cost loans. Being part of a circle helps you stay accountable, improve your financial habits, and build credit — while creating lasting connections.
Who Can Join a Success Circle?
Your path to joining a Success Circle depends on your experience with STE:
1. Individual Applicants
- Successfully complete two credit builder or emergency loans (each at least 3 months long).
- Emergency loans are available only if you’re referred by a trusted nonprofit partner.
- After completing your loans, STE will help connect you with other qualified individuals to form a circle.
- A minimum of 4 people is required to start a circle.
2. Pre-existing Groups
- Groups of at least 4 people can apply to form a circle.
- If half the members have completed two STE loans, the process is shorter (4-month trial loan).
- If fewer than half have completed two loans, a 6-month trial loan is required.
The Circle Process
1. Circle Application – A simple application (click here to request a copy).
2. Onboarding Session – Meet with STE staff via Zoom to learn how circles work and how to succeed as a group.
3. Trial Credit Builder Loan – A 4 to 6 month credit builder loan for each member.
4. Facilitator Support – A trained facilitator joins halfway through the trial loan to help with planning, problem-solving, accountability, and governance.
5. Graduation to Circle Loans – Once all members repay their trial loans, your circle becomes eligible for larger no-cost loans (STE sets the maximum amount based on each member’s repayment record).