Small business development is tough anywhere, but on Saint Paul's University Avenue — once the epitome of urban decay — it has been nearly impossible in recent years. But Yuepheng Xiong, in partnership with University Bank, beat all odds when he moved his Hmong Arts, Books & Crafts — the first-ever Hmong bookstore in the U.S. — to University Avenue. The mixed-use property would not qualify for either a traditional residential or commercial loan. Yet the benefit of having the property not only rehabbed but occupied 24 hours a day would be great for the neighborhood.

University Bank introduced Xiong to the Neighborhood Lending Partnership which allowed him to secure loan guarantee funds to complete a mortgage loan to buy and rehabilitate the building.

"It's been very rewarding to own this bookstore," Xiong said. "Not for the money — but for the access we bring to the Hmong community." Since the Hmong culture did not have a written language until the 1950s, what few books published by and about Hmongs have been difficult to come by — until now.

"University Bank helped me obtain financing I didn't know was available," said Xiong. "I am proud to own a business that shares the culture of the Hmong people and is also helping University Avenue come back to life."