American Lending Center (ALC), a mission-driven non-bank lending institution and federally designated EB-5 regional center operator, proudly celebrates its 17th anniversary, reflecting a longstanding commitment to supporting economic growth, job creation, and opportunity in communities throughout the United States.
Founded in 2009, ALC has evolved into a nationally recognized financial platform focused on expanding access to capital in rural and underserved communities and delivering responsible investment opportunities through its EB-5 and other lending programs. Over the past 17 years, the company has remained committed to its core philosophy of prioritizing immigrant investors while supporting projects that generate meaningful and lasting economic impact.
Throughout its journey, ALC has helped finance projects across a wide range of industries, including hospitality, infrastructure, clean energy, mixed-use development, and community-focused enterprises. Since its founding, ALC has helped more than 30,000 small business owners secure government-backed loans, contributed to the creation and retention of over 145,000 jobs, and grown to approximately $3.1 billion in assets under management. These investments have contributed to job creation, local economic development, and expanded opportunities in underserved communities nationwide.
“As we celebrate this important milestone, we are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our clients, partners, and team members who have been part of ALC’s journey over the past 17 years,” said John Shen, Founder and CEO of American Lending Center. “From the very beginning, our mission has been centered on creating opportunity—not only for investors pursuing their American Dream, but also for the communities and businesses we serve. As we look forward to our 18th year and beyond, we remain committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and long-term responsibility.”
Over the years, ALC has earned industry recognition for its growth, operational excellence, and commitment to creating economic impact. The company has been recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies, the Financial Times’ list of The Americas’ Fastest-Growing Companies, and the Los Angeles Times’ list of Fastest Growing Private Companies in Orange County. Most recently, ALC received the IIUSA I-829 Award for two consecutive years, recognizing excellence in project execution, job creation, and compliance standards.
Beyond its business achievements, ALC has remained committed to supporting education, entrepreneurship, and economic development in the communities it serves. Since relocating its headquarters to Irvine in 2021, the company and its leadership have supported initiatives that foster innovation and business growth, including a $1.25 million commitment to the Stella Zhang New Venture Competition (SZNVC) at the University of California, Irvine from 2022 through 2031. The competition helps cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders. In May 2026, the Stella and John Foundation launched the Private Business Initiative at UCI, a program designed to strengthen the long-term success and growth of privately held businesses throughout Southern California and beyond.
“Success carries a responsibility to give back,” said Stella Zhang, Chief Operating Officer of American Lending Center. “As ALC has grown, so has our commitment to investing in the people and communities that nurtured and supported our journey. Whether it’s supporting entrepreneurs, students, small business owners, or local nonprofit organizations, we believe meaningful impact begins by creating opportunities for others to succeed. We are proud of what we’ve accomplished over the past 17 years, but even more excited about the positive impact we can continue to make in the years ahead.”
Under the leadership of John Shen and Stella Zhang, ALC dedicated significant resources to support a variety of community and charitable causes. These philanthropic efforts include fundraising initiatives for City of Hope Orange County, Sponsorship of Walk for Hope, the establishment of scholarship programs at UCI, support for Irvine’s first innovation center, and sponsorship of community events such as Irvine Tech Day and the Irvine Dream Run, all aimed at fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth throughout the region.
As ALC enters its 18th year, the company remains focused on identifying innovative financing opportunities that support sustainable growth, strengthen communities, and create lasting value for future generations. Guided by a mission of expanding opportunity through responsible investment and community engagement, ALC continues to build on a 17-year legacy of impact, integrity, and service.
About American Lending Center
American Lending Center Holdings Inc. (ALC) is a mission-driven, private, non-bank lender committed to expanding access to capital, creating jobs, and driving sustainable economic growth across the United States. As a federally designated EB-5 regional center, ALC partners with investors to revitalize communities, create jobs, and finance sustainable projects that strengthen local economies—especially in underserved areas. At the time of this announcement, ALC has reached a new milestone, securing its 40th I-956F project approval—an EB-5 industry-leading achievement.
ALC is dedicated to advancing innovation and sustainability by supporting startups and projects in sectors including renewable energy, agriculture, and rural healthcare. At ALC, we believe in building stronger communities by fostering entrepreneurship, leveraging global investment, and creating opportunities that empower future generations.
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