Based in Minnetonka, MN, Channel is a nationwide leader in small business financing, combining advanced technology and streamlined processes to deliver customized solutions. Since its founding in 2009, Channel has funded over $2.3 billion to more than 25,000 businesses through over 37,000 transactions. Channel partners with equipment finance companies to fill a critical gap in small business credit availability, empowering entrepreneurs and supporting economic growth through tailored financing solutions.
A Culture Built on Core Values
At Channel, culture is the foundation of their success. Guided by six core values — camaraderie, respect, innovation, ease, authenticity and growth — Channel creates a workplace where collaboration, inclusivity and growth thrive. These principles guide every aspect of operations, fostering a positive and engaging environment for employees and partners alike.
Open communication is central to Channel’s culture. Regular Town Hall meetings, Clarity Chats and all-team emails ensure everyone stays informed and aligned. Recognition is integral to Channel’s values, with promotions, awards and team-building events celebrating achievements. Milestones such as weddings or home purchases are acknowledged, fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation.
Work-Life Balance and Community Engagement
Work-life balance is a priority at Channel. Flexible schedules, competitive benefits and wellness-focused health plans reflect their commitment to employee well-being. Fun Committee activities, such as Food Fridays and Coffee Cart mornings, bring moments of joy to the workday. A key feature of Channel’s culture is their dedication to giving back to the community. Through charitable initiatives like holiday gift drives and involvement with organizations including Feed My Starving Children, Ronald McDonald House, and offering Volunteer Time Off, they unite their team around shared values and a sense of purpose.
Values as the Foundation of Success
Channel’s core values are the backbone of their winning culture. By honoring their Partner promise to Understand and Connect, Channel delivers tailored solutions aligned with partner needs. Their Single Source approach provides comprehensive product solutions supported by technology and data, driving collaboration and mutual success.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral to Channel’s culture. Women hold key leadership roles, and the company is committed to recruiting diverse talent, ensuring that its workforce reflects diverse backgrounds, identities, and perspectives. Initiatives such as unconscious bias training, floating holidays, and employee pulse surveys foster an inclusive environment that celebrates individuality and promotes a culture of equity and respect.
Encouraging Growth and Development
Channel champions employee development through programs like STRIPES Leadership Program, DiSC Training, and Leadership Development Training, preparing team members for leadership roles. They also support industry advancement by supporting Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) certifications. These initiatives highlight their commitment to continuous learning and growth, enabling employees to thrive while advancing the organization forward.
Transparency and Open Communication
Channel fosters transparency through open dialogue. Town Halls, Clarity Chats and an open-door approach for leadership ensure employees feel heard and valued. Feedback mechanisms encourage honest communication, creating an environment of trust and mutual respect.
Employee recognition fosters community through company-wide announcements, team-building events and awards for outstanding contributions. Personal milestones are celebrated and recognized, strengthening team bonds. Community-focused initiatives unite the team, reinforcing shared values and purpose.
“A business’s reputation, rooted in integrity, engagement and a focus on enduring partnerships, is a powerful foundation for building a successful culture,” Brad Peterson, CEO of Channel, says. “As Larry Senn said, ‘Culture is not an initiative; culture is the enabler of all initiatives.’”
Channel’s unwavering dedication to fostering a thriving workplace ensures employees feel empowered, valued and inspired. This commitment to culture, community and collaboration has earned recognition as a Top Workplace by Inc. Magazine and the Minnesota Star Tribune, reflecting a legacy of excellence and winning together .
