Sai Thao

Overview & Bio Information

Sai Thao is a Senior Lending Officer with Compeer Financial. Sai works with emerging markets farmers, helping them create business plans and obtain financing for their agriculture and food businesses. Sai grew up growing, harvesting and selling vegetables at farmers markets. He is passionate about agriculture and micro-enterprise organizations that support diverse communities.

Active in the emerging markets community, Sai has collaborated with the Hmong American Partnership, Hmong American Farmers Association, Latino Economic Development Center, African Economic Development Association, Asian Economic Development Association, Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Minnesota Food Associations, Main Street Project, The Good Acre, Renewing the Countryside and Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation. His work helps to support emerging markets farmers with flexible loan capital, business training and technical assistance.

Sai served on the board of several organizations, including the Hmong Chamber of Commerce and Wells Fargo-East Metro. He holds a B.A. in American Ethnic Studies from the University of Washington and an M.B.A. from City University of Seattle. Sai also received training through the National Development Council, Risk Management Association and Agricultural Lending Institute.