Helps low-income people to start and grow small businesses by offering -  Business training -  Small business loans -  Peer support and   -  Technical assistance Borrowers must   -  Attend an eight week business readiness course providing instruction on basic business planning, accounting, budgeting and marketing.   -  Form business groups of 4-6 members in order to be awarded loans starting at $1,000 and ranging, in time, up to $35,000.   -  Keep current on loan repayments.   On-going technical assistance is provided by a business resource network of professionals from the local business community.   In addition, a business resource network member will be assigned to each group to guide and support them.   Offers classes in Spanish, and possibly other languages.

Operates a website clearinghouse of grants, loans, financial aid and other benefits available from the federal government to people who qualify.

Provides flexible financing options to small businesses, with loan amounts ranging from $5,000 to $500,000. For those interested in commercial real estate, loans are available up to $750,000. Loan terms and interest rates are customized based on the specific needs of the business and its ability to repay. In addition to funding, guides entrepreneurs through the lending process, including preparing business plans and financial projections

Help business set up in SE Seattle with various supports. Components include: SITE SELECTION: - Comprehensive site selection process to help businesses set up in Southeast Seattle. - Services include community evaluation, site research and negotiations. Community Evaluation: A custom report can include information such as: - Properties available for purchase or lease - Zoning, permitting and land use requirements - Costs of construction - Workforce demographics - Competitors and customers Site Research: Analysis of potential real estate sites can include: - Property ownership - Tax assessment - Environmental concerns - Covenants, restrictions and ordinances - Site and building security - Previous uses Negotiations: Assistance in purchasing or leasing a site in Southeast Seattle can include: - Purchase price - Lease rate - Tenant improvements - New construction - Financing WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: Partners with education and training partners to find skills development pathways for residents to meet the needs of local businesses. Assistance can include: - Custom training and education programs - Employee recruitment - Labor market and wage analysis - Internships - Apprenticeships RETENTION & EXPANSION: Offers a wide range of economic development resources, tools and techniques to support local businesses. Assistance can include: - Business loan options - Business development - Navigating government - No-cost business consulting - Problem solving