From navigating the regulatory requirements that come with government-backed lending… to identifying solutions for loans at risk… to being the 9th of 9 children who also spent her childhood in Puerto Rico and the Philadelphia area… Seedcopa + SeedcoDE’s newly promoted Portfolio and Compliance Manager Loaida Rodriguez brings a richness of experience to both borrowers and lenders. This month we’re asking her 7 questions so you can get to know her even better!
- How did you get your start in government-backed lending?
Government-backed lending found me. After meeting Chester County Economic Development Council President Michael Grigalonis and staying connected over the years, he reached out to discuss the open Portfolio and Compliance Specialist position with Seedcopa. It was an unexpected proposition because my background had been focused on corporate accounting and finance. Looking back, accepting that opportunity was one of the best professional decisions I’ve made. Everything I’ve learned throughout my career has complemented and strengthened my ability to serve borrowers, analyze complex financial situations, and navigate the regulatory requirements that come with government-backed lending.
- What has been your favorite project so far?
I don’t think I have one favorite project. What I’ve discovered is that I genuinely enjoy working with loans that are at risk. There’s something incredibly rewarding about analyzing complex situations, identifying solutions, and balancing regulatory requirements with the borrower’s best path forward. Every distressed loan presents a unique challenge, and I enjoy finding practical strategies that create the best possible outcome for everyone involved.
- What has been the most unique project you’ve worked on?
Two projects stand out.
The first was a 7(a) liquidation that required completing a complex SBA 7(a) Guaranty Purchase Package. I found the situation fascinating because it involved a startup business that failed within its first year of operations, providing valuable insight into the many factors. It was also eye-opening to see that, in some cases, the cost of repossessing, transporting, and auctioning business assets can exceed the proceeds received from their sale.
The second was a 504 liquidation that required developing multiple strategies to facilitate the sale of the borrower’s commercial property while coordinating with several stakeholders, including the private lender, the SBA, and CCEDC. It was a complex negotiation that required balancing the interests of all parties while helping the borrower achieve the best possible resolution.
- What’s your favorite part about the job?
I enjoy the constantly changing nature of the work. Every day brings new challenges, complex problems to solve, and opportunities to learn. I also have the privilege of working alongside an outstanding team. Most rewarding of all is knowing that, at the end of the day, I’ve been able to help a borrower navigate a difficult situation and move one step closer to a solution.
- Tell us about your Philadelphia-area roots.
I was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and spent my childhood between Puerto Rico and the Philadelphia area because my older sibling lived in Philadelphia. Growing up, I had the unique opportunity to experience both cultures and attend school in both places from elementary school through high school.
Philadelphia has always held a special place in my heart. It’s where I had my first professional job, built lifelong friendships, and developed many of the experiences that shaped who I am today. While Puerto Rico will always be home, Philadelphia has become my second home, and I’ll always have a deep appreciation for the city and its people.
- Anything you’d like to share about your family and/or personal passions?
I’m the ninth of nine children, so family has always been at the center of my life. My partner Henry is my best friend since childhood in Puerto Rico. I’m a proud mother of four wonderful children: Christian (35), Anastasia (27), Nilsa (26), and Matthew (25). I also have a stepdaughter, Yleiram (25), whom I love as my own.
I’m also blessed with three beautiful granddaughters: Mila (10), Elena (6), and Stella (1). Our family reflects a wonderful blend of cultures, and I cherish the diversity and traditions that come with it. I’m very close to my nieces, nephews, and their children, and maintaining strong family connections is something I value deeply.
Outside of work, I’m passionate about lifelong learning, affordable housing initiatives, and Toastmasters. Toastmasters has been an incredible outlet for developing my public speaking, communication, and leadership skills, while also allowing me to encourage others on their own growth journeys.
- What’s your top tip for lenders and borrowers?
Treat the relationship as a partnership—not just during the loan origination process, but throughout the entire life of the loan. Open communication is essential. The SBA offers a variety of tools and programs designed to help borrowers facing financial challenges, but many people don’t realize those options exist until it’s too late. The sooner borrowers communicate with their lender, the more opportunities there are to develop solutions that can benefit everyone involved.
