Business Financing Assistance
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Business Financing Assistance Financing for new business ventures and expansions is available from both traditional loan sources and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Our local bankers are looking for qualified borrowers with sound business plans. Please if you have difficulty opening any of the links below. SBA Loan Programs The U.S. Small Business Administration offers a number of loan programs for businesses employing fewer than 500 staff. For more information about these programs or to find a local SBA lender, contact the Georgia District Office at (404) 331-0100. The Small Business Development Center at Clayton State can also provide free guidance related to both SBA lending programs and traditional loans. The 7(a) Loan Program offers financial help to companies who meet very specialized requirements. Veteran-owned businesses and businesses needing capital to support export activity may qualify for loans under this program. The Microloan Program provides short-term loans under $50,000. Funds can be used for working capital or the purchase of inventory, furniture, or equipment. Recipients may be required to take business or technical assistance training. The CDC/504 Loan Program facilitates economic development in a community by providing small businesses with long-term, fixed-rate financing. Funds can be used to acquire major fixed assets for expansion or modernization. Banks in Forest Park Forest Park has national and community banks that are ready to assist local business owners. Contact a local branch to learn more about its corporate accounts and services.
Peer-to-Peer Lending, Crowdfunding, and Microlending Considering alternative options to traditional bank financing such as peer-to-peer lending, crowdfunding, or microlending? These financing mechanisms use websites to match individual lenders and borrowers. A few popular sites are listed below, but remember that it is always a good idea to consult with your accountant or lawyer to avoid a bad deal or scam. StartupAmericaPartnership.org is a White House campaign to promote high-growth entrepreneurship. The nonprofit organization identifies private-sector partners that will commit resources to help entrepreneurial companies start or grow. Prosper claims to be the world’s largest peer-to-peer lending marketplace. It lets borrowers choose a loan amount between $2,000 and $25,000 and post a listing to its website. Individual lenders can browse listings and make investments as small as $25. Lending Club is a peer-to-peer lending site that says it can offer better rates to borrowers by avoiding the higher administrative, marketing, and infrastructure costs built into the cost of traditional bank loans. Kickstarter is a funding platform for creative projects in the fields of music, film, art, technology, design, food, and publishing. Post your project to the website and reward investors with products, benefits, or experiences. Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE) provides loans to small businesses who lack access to traditional forms of credit. The micro-lending program specializes in loans less than $50,000 and often works in partnership with banks to meet “credit gaps.” Other The Georgia State Small Business Credit Initiative has been allocated $48 million in Federal funds to facilitate small business lending. The program is being implemented by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, and it works through traditional private lenders. For easier access to credit for most business expenses, ask your lender if they are participating in the program. |
