The Federal Reserve’s recent decision to lower interest rates creates a window of opportunity that nonprofit leaders can’t afford to miss. Refinancing your organization’s debt right now can free up dollars, strengthen your financial footing, and expand your capacity to serve.
Unlike the long-term mortgages many of us are familiar with, commercial loans typically carry shorter terms. That means when your loan comes due, you have to go back to the market. The good news? With lower interest rates, now is the perfect time to do it. By locking in better terms and reducing interest payments, you redirect money away from the bank and back to your mission—where it belongs.
Think about it this way: every dollar not spent on debt service is a dollar invested in lives changed. Lower rates mean more children at camp, more people housed, more families served, more programs that spark transformation in your community.
But refinancing isn’t just about numbers. It’s about positioning your organization for long-term stability and growth. Better terms give you flexibility for future capital needs, breathing room in your budget, and the confidence that comes from leading from a place of financial strength.
LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW DBD GROUP CAN HELP YOU REFINANCE YOUR ORGANIZATION'S DEBT.
Real-time Results
When the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh found itself burdened with unmanageable debt and an unsustainable banking relationship, the organization turned to DBD Group and Y-USA for help. Years of being in “special assets” had restricted their operations and stalled a $26 million renovation project at their historic Allegheny branch. With both the CFO and controller positions vacant, DBD stepped in to provide interim financial leadership, guide the organization through complex refinancing negotiations, and help secure a new banking partner willing to re-amortize debt on terms that worked for the Y’s long-term sustainability.
The results were transformational. Annual debt payments were reduced by over $1 million, freeing critical dollars to reinvest in people, programs, and facilities. Construction on the Allegheny branch could finally move forward, while the refinancing process itself repositioned the Y as a stronger, more credible community leader. As the CEO reflected, technical expertise was only half the battle—what mattered most was having a trusted partner with the courage, integrity, and leadership to walk alongside them. With the right support, what once felt impossible became achievable, empowering the Y to serve its community with confidence and dream more boldly about the future.
“Three years ago, we were in a tough situation. Our debt handcuffed our ability to meet the mission of the organization and think about long-term sustainability. It was an untenable situation, made worse when the lender told us they would not renew our bond. In this kind of complex situation, you better have an expert walking by your side. DBD Group brought that expertise. Jim Mellor asked the hard questions that people had been avoiding in a way that brought credibility both internally and with our volunteers and external financial partners. If you're looking for a partner who understands both the financial complexities and the heart of nonprofit work, you can't go wrong with DBD Group.” - Amy Kienle, CEO, YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh
Act Now
Interest rates will not stay low forever. Taking action today means securing long-term savings and redirecting precious dollars back into your mission.
Partnering for Success
Navigating the refinancing process takes time, expertise, and the ability to negotiate from a position of strength. That’s where DBD Group comes in. As your trusted third-party partner, we help you:
- Gather the right data and prepare your case.
- Protect key relationships by handling lender negotiations.
- Compare offers and secure terms that advance your mission.
Most importantly, we walk alongside your staff and volunteers so you can focus on leading—while we focus on ensuring your organization comes out ahead.
Now is a GREAT time to refinance. Let DBD Group be your partner in building the financial foundation your organization needs to thrive.
Learn more and contact us today.