“Several years ago I had an idea, inspired by a book where I learned about the importance of reading aloud to children. I wanted to go back to Colombia and visit the poorest neighborhoods to read to the children and teach their parents about the importance of reading. I cannot make that happen, but Book Harvest is doing it here and I am so happy I can help in any capacity for this noble and important work.”

Juan Canal is the Finance and Impact Manager for the Small Business Capital Initiative at the NC Rural Center, which provides loans to small businesses that serve socially and economically disadvantaged populations, as well as women and minority owned businesses. In his role, Mr. Canal manages financial reporting and analysis of mission impact.

Previously, Mr. Canal was the Senior Vice President of Finance at Latino Community Credit Union, where he used his expertise in finance, strategy, and marketing to offer opportunities to immigrants, helping them build wealth for their families.

Mr. Canal received his MBA from Duke University (2009).