Jean Barrett

Personal Information

Jean Barrett brings over 25+ years of banking experience in the Retail and Commercial sectors. As the Manager for Alterna Savings’ nationally acclaimed Community Microfinance Program, she oversees nine community microloan portfolios and manages 250+ small business borrowers in the Greater Toronto Area and Ottawa Region annually. Certified in financial literacy, Jean advises entrepreneurs and community organizations, and she frequently speaks on business planning, credit, budgeting, and financing at institutions like ACCES Employment Services, Toronto Business Development Centre, Toronto Library, and Youth Employment Services. She also supports ACCESS Community Capital Loan Fund and the Ottawa Community Loan Fund Team.

Jean’s leadership and expertise have made a substantial impact within the community and Alterna. Her management of microloan portfolios benefits a large number of small businesses. Her educational contributions reach aspiring entrepreneurs and community organizations. Her support for ACCESS Community Capital Loan Fund and the Ottawa Community Loan Fund Team demonstrates her commitment to community development. Jean’s mentoring and recognition by the Ministry of Economic Development & Trade highlight her dedication to supporting young entrepreneurs. Her volunteering with RISE Asset Development Investment Committee contributes to microfinance and small business loan reviews. The “Outstanding Community Services & Business Development Support” award from the AfriCanada Commerce Exchange in 2023 further underscores her significant impact in the community.