How Bridge Helped Artesian Collaborative Secure Funding in Weeks

When Sunitha Chandy, owner of Artesian Collaborative, began her search for funding to grow her mental health organization, she faced what many small business owners encounter: a lengthy and uncertain process. But thanks to Bridge, a platform designed to connect businesses with a diverse network of lenders, Dr. Chandy’s journey to securing financing took a turn for the better.

The Challenge: Lengthy Loan Processes with Traditional Banks

Artesian Collaborative is a Chicago-based mental health organization that offers therapy, mental health training, systems development, and diversity and inclusion programs for organizations in need. The business had been bootstrapping its growth, but as it expanded, funding became essential to navigate challenges like fluctuating cash flow due to delayed contracts or changing insurance regulations.

Dr. Chandy initially turned to a large national bank she already worked with, but the process dragged on for months without progress. “It’s hard to know which banks to trust,” she shared. “I waited four or five months just to hear no.” The experience was both disheartening and frustrating, leaving her searching for a better way to secure funding.

The Turning Point: Discovering Bridge

In March 2023, Dr. Chandy attended Bridge’s “Access to Capital” panel at the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) conference in Nashville. During the event, she heard directly from the Bridge team and other founders about mission-driven approaches to supporting businesses. “It helps to hear stories from others,” she said. “To have someone translate the financial jargon and help you understand it all.”

Motivated by what she learned, Dr. Chandy decided to submit a request on the Bridge platform.

The Bridge Experience: Simplicity, Support, and Results

Despite a prior rejection from a large bank, Dr. Chandy was determined to find a financial partner who aligned with her needs. She worked closely with the Bridge team to ensure all her documentation was uploaded in the Due Diligence portal. The support she received was a game-changer.

“I’m not used to people being helpful, which is weird to say, but it’s true,” Dr. Chandy explained. “It’s a scary process, and it’s nice to know the people are there to help me through it.”

Through the platform, Dr. Chandy reviewed her options and ultimately chose the lender that was the best fit for her business. Thanks to the lender’s express offering, Artesian Collaborative’s loan closed just three days after she submitted her final documents.

Insights for Other Business Owners

Reflecting on her journey, Dr. Chandy highlighted how Bridge made the lending process easier and more transparent. “I would recommend Bridge, as I appreciated seeing all the options,” she said. For Chandy, the process underscored the importance of knowledge and preparation. She stressed the value of understanding funding options and lender expectations before beginning the process.

Her advice to fellow business owners? Be intentional about planning for funding needs and don’t be afraid to seek help. “When your costs exceed what you’re bringing in, you’re going to need funding. Build out your plan so you’re prepared when you experience a revenue dip that’s doesn’t cover your budget.”

The experience also shifted her perspective on business financing. “Financing is risk, but it’s also reward,” she shared.

The Future of Artesian Collaborative

With the $105,000 line of credit secured, Artesian Collaborative is better positioned to continue its mission of bringing mental health resources to organizations that need them most. Chandy’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, preparation, and finding the right partners—and Bridge is proud to have played a role in her success.

Find out more about Dr. Chandy and Artesian Collaborative here.