A Coleman Conversation: Chuck Evans
August 13, 2025
Bob Coleman
Founder & Publisher
In this week’s episode of A Coleman Conversation, Bob Coleman sits down with Chuck Evans, Executive Director at Lenders Cooperative and a highly respected leader in the SBA lending industry. Chuck brings decades of experience shaped by a unique journey that started with unconventional beginnings and evolved through hands-on entrepreneurship, leadership roles at CDCs, and pioneering work with Lender Service Providers. This episode dives into the real-world strategies and philosophies that have defined Chuck’s career and his vision for the future of SBA lending.
Topics Covered:
✓ Chuck’s career foundation in commercial banking and entrepreneurship, and how the mindset of “eat what you kill” shaped his hands-on, results-driven approach to SBA lending and business leadership
✓ His unexpected entry into SBA lending through a CDC board seat, quickly rising to lead 504 program expansion, and later participating in the 7(a) program to meet the capital needs of underserved small businesses
✓ The formation and rapid growth of Lenders Cooperative’s LSP division, including helping community banks transition from low-volume SBA activity to strong, sustainable production
✓ Chuck’s call to reform the SBA’s district offices into dedicated training centers to support the 1000+ lenders doing under 10 SBA loans annually
✓ His belief that SBA lending offers unmatched career potential, combining strong compensation with meaningful economic impact — and his advice for new entrants to fully embrace the field, invest in learning, and surround themselves with experts