Growth, inclusion, and localized impact require visionary leadership. As we continue to scale our mission-driven lending and deepen our support for underserved businesses across New England, having the right strategist at the helm is everything.
BDC Community Capital Corp. is pleased to officially announce Karim Hill as President.
Bringing over two decades of executive experience in commercial banking and small business advocacy, Karim is uniquely positioned to lead our U.S. Treasury-certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) into its next chapter of regional impact.
A Proven Track Record in Commercial Finance and Small Business Advocacy
Karim Hill’s career is defined by a deep understanding of the New England financial ecosystem and a career-long dedication to expanding access to capital.
Prior to joining BDC Community Capital, Karim held prominent executive positions at several of the nation's and region's largest financial institutions:
- Santander Bank: Served as the Regional President for New England South.
- Citizens Bank: Served as Executive Vice President and Consumer Banking Director for New England, where he managed small business banking, consumer lending, and 205 retail branches across the region.
- Leadership Roles: Held key management positions at Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Capital One.
- Smaller Business Association of New England (SBANE): Served as President and CEO, advocating directly for the operational needs and legislative interests of regional entrepreneurs.
Additionally, Karim continues to drive systemic change at the state level through his appointment to Governor Healey’s Operational Services Division (OSD) Diverse and Small Business Advisory Board.
Spearheading the Next Phase of CDFI Growth
As President, Karim’s role encompasses the strategic development and oversight of both internal CDFI operations and new business development throughout BDC’s targeted areas.
His primary directive is to leverage public-private partnerships to lower the barriers to entry for minority-, women-, and veteran-owned enterprises, as well as businesses operating in historically under-invested Gateway Cities.
“We’re excited about Karim joining us to spearhead the growth in our CDFI to help underserved businesses in New England to grow,” said Paul F. Flynn, Jr., President & CEO of BDC Capital. “His extensive experience running major regional commercial banking footprints, combined with his deep passion for small business advocacy, makes him the perfect leader to expand our community lending toolkit.”
Driving Impact Through Public-Private Collaboration
Under Karim’s leadership, BDC Community Capital is doubling down on its focus to bridge the gap between traditional banking and under-resourced entrepreneurs.
A prime example of this strategy is BDC Community Capital’s work alongside municipal governments—such as serving as the grant administrator for the City of Boston's $5 million SCALE Grant Program, which subsequently led to the creation of a $10 million Growth Loan Fund specifically designed to finance tactical plans for underserved urban companies.
Looking Ahead
"Collaboration between public, private, and philanthropic partners is the only sustainable way to close the wealth gap, make capital truly accessible to all, and to grow sustainable jobs within our local economy," noted Karim Hill. "I look forward to working closely with our network of nearly 40 member banks, the SBA, and our public partners to ensure that every viable New England entrepreneur has a clear, equitable path to growth."
Please join the entire BDC Capital family in giving a warm welcome to Karim Hill!
.jpeg)
