Get a Loan

To get a loan for a business, small business owners must show potential lenders any or all of these,

• A strong business plan.
• Ability to make money.
• Ability to pay back money.
• A financial history that meets their requirements.
• Expertise and experience in your business.

These are the “Five C’s of Credit.” They include character, capacity, capital, collateral and conditions.

Loans for Small Businesses

Loans from banks and credit unions are the most well-known type of loans. In addition to those, other organizations lend money to small businesses. Try this tool to match businesses with lenders.

• U.S. Small Business Administration's Lender Match
• Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Certification

Linked Deposit Program

One solution to help small business owners is the Linked Deposit Program. Started in 1983, it encourages banks and credit unions to offer better interest rates to owners of OMWBE certified businesses. Business owners work with their bank to agree to loan terms and enroll in the program.

Loans for Microbusinesses

Many microbusiness development organizations and economic development districts have loan programs. These programs can offer loans to the smallest of small businesses that don’t qualify for commercial loans.

Central/Eastern Washington

• SNAP Financial Access
• Tri County Economic Development District
• Mid-Columbia Economic Development District

Western Washington

• Business Impact NW
• Craft3
• Rainier Valley Community Development Fund

Statewide

• Washington Small Business Development Centers