Homestretch Mortgage-Kentucky
Situation
A native of Lafayette, Louisiana, Mike Frank has spent most of his life in Louisville. After high school, Mike worked for an electrical company for a year.
In 2003 he decided to join the United States Navy to help pay for school and serve his country. He received a letter of recommendation for his exemplary service. In 2007, Mike returned to Louisville and continued his work as an electrician, earning his electrical certification for the state of Kentucky, which is a four-year program with the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) as well as an AAS in Mechanical Engineering.
Mike enjoyed working as an electrician, but his passion was in real estate investment. With a background in mechanical and electrical work, Mike gained a firm understanding of the construction process.
He then learned the business side of real estate and became a mortgage lender in 2010. Mike thrives on helping his clients achieve the American dream of homeownership. He also educates clients about debt consolidation, credit repair, and budgeting.
Solution
Mike loved his work but needed funding for a business expansion. So, he applied for an SBA 7(a) loan to acquire and renovate a building and working capital for his business and employees.
Mike participated in the SBA Boots-to-Business program before transitioning out of the Navy, which was invaluable knowledge as he started Homestretch Mortgage.
Using as many resources as possible, Mike also applied for SBA THRIVE, an executive-level training series designed to accelerate the growth of high-potential small businesses across the United States.
Mike then worked with the Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC) coach for Kentucky, Rob Corrigan, to develop his business plan and a microloan.
Impact/Outcome
The SBA THRIVE, Boots-to-Business and VBOC programs have helped Mike achieve his goals by providing him with business operations and leadership skills.
SBA funding enabled Homestretch Mortgage to purchase and renovate a building and hire three employees, which have fueled rapid growth for the company.
Mike and his team now offer a full array of home loan needs, including bridge loans, conventional mortgages, VA loans, construction loans, and more.
To better educate the company’s clients, Mike has created a series of short social media videos on real estate topics, like renting vs. buying, finding the right home at the right time, improving credit scores, dealing with shifting interest rates, and other insightful topics.
Mike was also recognized as the SBA Kentucky 2024 Veteran Owned Small Business of the Year.
He received a Certificate of Achievement as a graduate of Focus Louisville from the Leadership Louisville Center in 2025. This program is for those who want to make a difference and lead with purpose. Mike believes the program enhanced his development and growth as a leader.
Mike stated: “SBA resource partners and programs were invaluable, as they helped me create a solid business plan; understand key performance indicators for my industry, like sales, marketing, customer service, and operation; and helped me understand what it takes to be an entrepreneur and a leader for my company.”
Mike believes in giving back. He volunteers for Blessings in a Backpack, serves on the Board of Directors for the Mortgage Bankers Association of Louisville and Junior Achievement of Kentuckiana. He is an Honorable Kentucky Colonel and is involved with the Greater Louisville Association Realtors and Crescent Hill Community Council. Homestretch Mortgage. Mike also supports local artists.