Originally from Venezuela, Jose Venales is a community-focused leader with a passion for building robust economic and sustainable ecosystems. As the Director of Credit and Lending at The Iowa Center, he is a pivotal force in strengthening Iowa's entrepreneurial landscape. A cornerstone of his career, Jose spearheaded the creation of The Iowa Center’s loan fund from the ground up in 2021, successfully securing its official certification as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) in 2022. 

Under his leadership, the organization’s loan portfolio is expertly managed to ensure capital remains accessible to both emerging and established business owners. His strategic guidance has empowered hundreds of Iowa entrepreneurs to secure the funding needed to launch and grow their ventures. 

Jose's commitment to community development extends to his passion for energy efficiency. From 2018 to 2021, he served as the Program Manager for The Nicor Gas Multifamily Low Income Energy Efficiency Program in Illinois, where he managed initiatives to reduce energy burdens for vulnerable populations. This unique blend of financial acumen and sustainability advocacy continues to shape his holistic approach to economic empowerment. 

Jose holds an MBA in Leadership and a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Dakota Wesleyan University. His journey from Venezuela to becoming a key architect of Iowa's small business funding infrastructure demonstrates his unwavering dedication to creating opportunity. He resides in Grimes, IA, with his wife, Cherise, and their three daughters, Nola, Evie, and Lark.