Kenneth Shane Patterson is known for more than just his success in business. He’s also deeply committed to helping underserved communities. As the founder of GoBizLending and a restaurateur in Los Angeles, he balances entrepreneurship with a passion for giving back. His story shows how business and compassion can go hand in hand.
From Restaurateur to Financial Advocate
Patterson started his journey in the restaurant industry. In Los Angeles, he built a name for himself by creating dining experiences that stood out. His restaurants became known not just for food but for atmosphere and community.
But as successful as his restaurants were, Patterson noticed something troubling. “Restaurants live and die by cash flow,” he says. “You could be fully booked and still struggle to make payroll if funding doesn’t come through.”
That challenge led Patterson to a new mission: making financial support more accessible to small businesses. He founded GoBizLending, partnering with former SBA bankers who understood the difficulties business owners faced.
Building GoBizLending
GoBizLending is not your typical finance industry company. Patterson and his team take a different approach. They don’t just look at credit scores—they consider the whole story. “We’re not here to judge entrepreneurs by their balance sheets,” Patterson explains. “We’re here to empower them to keep building.”
The company focuses on customized lending solutions. Whether it’s working capital, real estate transactions, or equipment purchases, GoBizLending meets small businesses where they are. This hands-on approach has made the company a trusted partner for many.
A Deep Commitment to Giving Back
Patterson’s dedication to business goes hand in hand with his commitment to the community. One of his most meaningful projects is Trina’s Kids Foundation. The organization helps underserved youth in Los Angeles, providing school supplies, mentorship, and meals during holidays.
“When you see a child smile because they got a backpack full of supplies, it changes you,” Patterson says. “It’s not just about what you build for yourself, but what you help build for others.”
He doesn’t just donate—he gets involved. Whether it’s handing out meals or packing supplies, Patterson is there. For him, giving back means being present and connecting with the people he’s helping.
Why Giving Matters to Patterson
Patterson doesn’t view philanthropy as just writing checks. He believes it’s about being actively involved. “If you have the means to help, you should,” he says. “Especially if you’ve ever needed help yourself.”
This mindset also shapes his support for Beit T’Shuvah, a residential treatment center for addiction recovery. He sees the importance of second chances and wants to ensure financial hardship doesn’t block access to help. “Everyone deserves a second chance,” he notes. “Beit T’Shuvah gives people theirs every day.”
Another cause Patterson supports is Celina’s Women’s Shelter. The shelter helps women escaping domestic violence. Patterson’s involvement goes beyond funding. He’s involved in creating long-term support plans, including job training and financial stability.
“It’s about offering more than just a safe space,” he says. “It’s about helping them rebuild their lives.”
Staying Grounded in Community
Despite his business success, Patterson stays rooted in his values. He’s actively involved with Clovis Hills Community Church, Calabasas Country Club, and Sinai Akiba Temple. These organizations provide spiritual and community connections that Patterson sees as essential.
For him, it’s about balance. “Running a business is one thing,” he says. “Being part of a community is something else entirely. You need both to stay grounded.”
Inspiring Future Entrepreneurs
Patterson also believes in passing on his knowledge. He mentors young business owners, focusing on building sustainable models and fostering community ties. “Small businesses are the heart of our economy,” he says. “If we want to build a better future, we need to start by giving them the tools to succeed.”
Looking ahead, he hopes to create more opportunities for young people. This includes scholarship programs and financial literacy training, especially for minority-owned and women-led businesses.
Business as a Force for Good
Patterson’s journey shows that success doesn’t have to come at the expense of giving back. Whether through GoBizLending, his restaurants, or his philanthropic efforts, he proves that business can be a force for good.
“If you’re building something just for yourself, it’s not enough,” he says. “You have to think about how you’re impacting others. That’s where real success comes from.”
By staying true to his values, Kenneth Shane Patterson is shaping a future where business success and community support go hand in hand.
Interview with Kenneth Shane Patterson
What inspired you to transition from running restaurants to founding GoBizLending?
It all started with a simple realization—restaurants live and die by cash flow. I saw so many great businesses struggling because they couldn’t secure funding. I knew there had to be a better way. That’s what led me to create GoBizLending. I wanted to make financing easier and more accessible for small businesses.
How does GoBizLending stand out from traditional lenders?
We don’t just look at credit scores or financial statements. We listen to entrepreneurs. We learn about their stories, their challenges, and their goals. It’s about understanding the people behind the businesses. We also have a team of former SBA bankers who know the struggles of small business owners. That expertise makes a big difference.
Trina’s Kids Foundation is a big part of your life. Why is this cause so important to you?
It’s personal for me. When you see a child smile because they received a backpack full of school supplies or enjoy a Thanksgiving meal they might have missed, it changes you. It’s about more than just giving—it’s about making kids feel seen and valued.
You also support Beit T’Shuvah and Celina’s Women’s Shelter. Why are these causes close to your heart?
Beit T’Shuvah is all about second chances, and I believe everyone deserves one. I’ve seen how powerful it can be when people get a fresh start. Celina’s Women’s Shelter is about giving women a safe space and the support they need to rebuild. These aren’t just donations for me—I want to be part of the solution.
As a business leader, how do you balance your time between entrepreneurship and philanthropy?
It’s all about priorities. For me, giving back isn’t just a side project—it’s part of who I am. I make time because I believe businesses should be part of their communities. Whether it’s running GoBizLending or handing out supplies at Trina’s Kids Foundation, I stay grounded by staying involved.
What’s your biggest piece of advice for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Don’t just focus on making money—focus on making an impact. Build something that helps people, whether it’s your customers, your team, or your community. That’s how you create a business that lasts.
