Chicago-based fintech firm and socially responsible online lender OppLoans announced on Tuesday the opening of its new Windy City headquarters. The company revealed that Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel made an appearance and even cut the ribbon to the office. During his presentation, Mayor Emanuel stated:
“While for a lot of people outside this room, this may be the first time they’ve heard of OppLoans. There is no doubt in my mind this will not be the last time they’ve heard OppLoans. I look forward to being back as you scale more mountains, more heights, and continue to grow and to be successful and to offer financing to a lot of families.”
OppLoans, which was founded in 2012, currently offers financial bridge products to the subprime consumer that are safer and more affordable than traditional alternatives. The company also awards $10,000 in academic scholarships annually, donates quarterly to employee-selected charities, and offers free financial education through its online university OppU. Jared Kaplan, CEO of OppLoans, shared:
“To be honored for our growth and our new headquarters is exciting. But it’s truly gratifying to be able to speak with the mayor about our commitment to hiring in Chicago, paying a living wage to our employees, and continuing to contribute to the Chicago technology startup ecosystem. The growth we’ve experienced in the past two years has been remarkable and we fully expect it to continue. We asked the mayor to hold onto his scissors and bring them to our next ribbon cutting.”
OppLoans is licensed and able to lend or arrange loans in the following states:
- Alabama
- California
- Delaware
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Kansas
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- New Mexico
- Ohio
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Virginia
- Wisconsin