Small credit unions with an eye toward business lending are the target audience for two free webinars on the topic announced Wednesday by the NCUA.

The first webinar in the series, “Strategy and Policy,” is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 2 p.m. Eastern. The second, “Underwriting,” will be offered Wednesday, Sept. 25, also at 2 p.m. Eastern.

Employees from the NCUA's Office of Small Credit Union Initiatives and Region IV's Division of Special Actions will explain the agency's requirements for a successful member business lending program. Webinar participants will also hear from a credit union business development specialist who will discuss, step-by-step, how to start a safe and sound program.

“Prudent member business lending is an important investment in communities, and it strengthens a credit union's balance sheet,” Chairman Debbie Matz said. “Credit unions are frequently the only lenders willing to make small loans to expand a car repair shop, start a daycare center or open a corner bodega. Member business lending also diversifies credit union portfolios and improves their ability to withstand economic cycles.”

Registration for both the Sept. 17 webinar and the Sept. 25 webinar are open and available online.